Batu pahat: Prof Dr Mas Fawzi Mohd Ali has been appointed as the fifth vice-chancellor of Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (UTHM) for a two-year term effective today. The Ministry of Higher Education (MoHE) announced the appointment, attributing it to his expertise and extensive experience in engineering and university governance.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Mas Fawzi, aged 51, has a strong academic background, including a Bachelor’s degree in Electromechanical Systems from the University of Manchester Institute of Science and Technology, United Kingdom, obtained in 1997, and a Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering (Research) from Universiti Teknologi Malaysia in 2007. He further advanced his education by earning a Doctor of Engineering in Earth and Life Environmental Engineering from Tokushima University, Japan, in 2009.

Throughout his academic career, Mas Fawzi has held key positions such as deputy dean at the Centre for Graduate Studies and Faculty of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering; director of the Strategic Planning and Risk Management Office; and assistant vice-chancellor for strategic and corporate affairs at UTHM. His industry experience includes roles as a calibration engineer at Samsung Electronics Display Sdn Bhd and as an industrial engineer at Sharp-Roxy Electronics Sdn Bhd before entering public service in 2004.

The MoHE expressed confidence in Mas Fawzi’s ability to leverage his combined experience in administration and industry to guide UTHM towards becoming an innovative and respected centre of knowledge. The ministry also extended its appreciation to the former vice-chancellor, Datuk Prof Ir Ts Dr Ruzairi Abdul Rahim, for his service and leadership during his tenure.