Kelantan:Universiti Malaysia Kelantan (UMK) is set to enhance the role of industry in its development by integrating sector players into teaching, talent development, research, and real-world problem-solving.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, UMK's vice-chancellor, Datuk Prof Dr Arham Abdullah, emphasized that this initiative is part of the UMK CONNECT 2026: Industry Appreciation and Strategic Collaboration Hi-Tea. The event gathered 104 industry partners from various fields, focusing on three main approaches: Industry Engagement, Talent Connection, and Career Development.

Dr Arham highlighted that the university's strength is not only based on campus activities but also on extending knowledge, expertise, and talents to provide value beyond the campus. UMK is prepared to assist the industry with challenges through its researchers and by offering graduates that meet market needs.

The collaboration effort is further strengthened by the Industry Engagement Session, which includes presentations on industry involvement in teaching, learning, talent development, the Industry on Campus (IoC) concept, and sustainable financing through the UMK Endowment Fund.

A key initiative, UMK Talent Bridge, aims to connect campus talent with industry leaders, emphasizing the importance of aligning student skills with industry demands.

UMK's deputy vice-chancellor (Research and Innovation), Prof. Dr. Wan Ahmad Amir Zal Wan Ismail, expressed the university's intention to establish UMK CONNECT as an annual event. This platform is intended to continuously develop the relationship between academia and industry, translating university expertise into broader benefits for graduates, society, and the industrial sector.

The event also saw UMK receiving RM1.1 million from Maybank Islamic to support the SULUNG Student Development Programme and the Housing Project for Persons with Disabilities at the Kampung Aur OKU Rehabilitation Centre in Bachok, Kelantan.