Kuala Lumpur:Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Kedah and Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka (DBP) have formalized a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to bolster collaboration in research, academia, industrial training, and cultural activities.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the strategic partnership aims to facilitate joint research, promote knowledge sharing, and enhance capacity building through academic and cultural programs that will benefit both students and the broader community.
The MoU signing took place at Wisma DBP, with UiTM deputy vice-chancellor (Student Affairs) Prof Dr Mohd Sazili Shahibi representing the university's vice-chancellor and UiTM Kedah rector Associate Prof Dr Mahazir Ismail witnessing the ceremony. The event coincided with DBP Digital Day 2026, themed “Public Sector Administrative Reform and Innovation Towards Empowering a Distinguished DBP.”
The collaboration is further strengthened by the recent appointment of DBP director-general Datuk Dr Hazami Jahari as an adjunct professor at UiTM, facilitating expertise sharing between the institutions. Mahazir expressed optimism that the MoU would lead to more collaborative initiatives with tangible benefits, particularly in high-impact programs involving academics, students, and industry experts.
The partnership is expected to create new opportunities in knowledge development, creative works, and research, while also broadening students' exposure to language, literature, and culture. It aims to provide a more comprehensive learning experience through research projects and relevant industrial training opportunities.
In his speech, Hazami emphasized DBP's digital transformation efforts to enhance efficiency in management and service delivery across language, literature, publishing, and knowledge sectors. He highlighted the importance of digitalisation in maintaining relevance and efficiency in public sector organizations.
Hazami revealed that DBP has developed 28 digital products and 16 digital services, with plans for an additional 11 systems by 2028, including a new Integrated Library Management System and a Learning Management System. Education Ministry deputy secretary-general (Management) Datuk Indera Ikmalrudin Ishak underscored the need for strategic alignment and innovation in public sector reform to ensure effective service delivery and the development of the Malay language digital ecosystem.
He stressed the importance of cooperation among government agencies, higher education institutions, industry players, academics, and the public in strengthening the Malay language as a medium for knowledge, science, and modern technology development, including AI capabilities.