Johor bahru: Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) has thanked Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi for his continued support and dedication to the development of higher education and the well-being of the people in the state.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the university expressed its appreciation for several key initiatives announced by the state government, including the RM500,000 allocation to upgrade UTM's Dewan Sultan Iskandar (DSI). This upgrade aims to provide modern and conducive facilities for official events, academic programmes, and community activities.

Strengthening the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) partnership through the Johor Talent Development Skills Centre (JTDC) also opens significant opportunities for talent empowerment, high-impact research, technological innovation, and knowledge-based industrial development.

The statement further highlighted support for the Bangsa Johor Bahagia (BJB) pilot projects, including BJB 2.0 and BJB 3.0, which emphasise the well-being of the people through education, social engagement, and improving quality of life. This aligns with the vision of Her Majesty Raja Zarith Sofiah, Queen of Malaysia, who is also UTM's Chancellor.

UTM reiterated its commitment to leading in academia to support Johor's economic agenda through expertise and strategic research. The university plans to continue its contributions through studies, specialised knowledge, and community empowerment programmes that directly benefit the people of Johor.

The university also expressed gratitude to the Johor government for its Special Financial Assistance (BKKNJ) to federal civil servants in the state, underscoring the close cooperation between the state and federal governments in safeguarding the welfare of public servants.

Meanwhile, UTM vice-chancellor Prof Dr Mohd Shafry Mohd Rahim acknowledged Onn Hafiz's leadership and commitment with gratitude. He noted that the Menteri Besar's concern and support have significantly boosted UTM's efforts in strengthening the higher education ecosystem, talent development, and the well-being of the Johor community. UTM is committed to continuing its role as a leading research university that supports Johor's Maju Johor aspirations in realising a sustainable, innovative, and competitive future.