For over three decades, INTI International University & Colleges has driven student success and fostered connections with industry leaders. This dedication was celebrated during the Industry Partners Appreciation Dinner (IPAD) 2024, held on 19 November 2024 at the Royal Signature Hotel in Kuala Lumpur. The event brought together over 350 guests from various industries to recognise the essential role these collaborations play in preparing graduates for the future.
Over 350 industry leaders and partners gathered at INTI’s Industry Partners Appreciation Dinner 2024, showcasing the strength of academia-industry collaborations.
Highlighting Collaborative Efforts
The evening was an opportunity to express gratitude for the unwavering commitment of INTI’s industry partners. Mohd Khuzzan Abu Bakar, Deputy Chairman of Talent Corporation Malaysia Bhd, delivered the keynote speech, spotlighting the critical importance of academia-industry collaboration in Malaysia’s talent development initiatives.
Mohd Khuzzan Abu Bakar (centre), Deputy Chairman of Talent Corporation Malaysia Bhd; Melinda Yang (left), shareholder representative of INTI International University & Colleges; Professor Emeritus Dato’ Ir. Dr. Mohamad Zawawi Ismail (right), Board of Directors of INTI International University & Colleges; and Chong Kok Wai (second to right), CEO of INTI International University & Colleges; with the committees of the Industry Partners Appreciation Dinner 2024.
In his remarks, Mohd Khuzzan commended INTI for its forward-thinking partnerships and highlighted the need for continued cooperation between education providers and businesses to meet workforce demands.
“TalentCorp’s priority in the coming years is to focus on reskilling, upskilling, and ensuring alignment between talent development and industry requirements,” he explained. “This synergy ensures students acquire the practical knowledge and expertise needed to thrive in dynamic work environments.”
He added, “INTI and other educational institutions play an indispensable role in this effort, alongside industry leaders who drive Malaysia’s economic growth. Together, we can create a dynamic, inclusive, and globally competitive talent ecosystem.”
Strengthening Ties with Partners
In his welcoming speech, Chong Kok Wai, CEO of INTI International University & Colleges, extended heartfelt thanks to the industry collaborators for their steadfast support in empowering students. He highlighted the year’s achievements, including over 6,000 students gaining practical experience through 500 employer projects and connections with 261 companies via career events.
“These successes are only possible because of your partnership,” Kok Wai said. “The innovative ideas and opportunities you introduce into our classrooms enable our students to step into the future with confidence and inspiration.”
He concluded with a vision for the future: “Let’s aim higher, push boundaries, and ensure every INTI graduate leaves with the skills, courage, and determination to make a difference.”
Celebrating Excellence
The night included an awards ceremony to honour exceptional industry collaborators for their contributions to student development:
- Employer of the Year Award
- Platinum: Public Bank Berhad
- Diamond: Jabil Sdn Bhd
- Gold: PwC in Malaysia
- INTI Edge Award
- Platinum: SW Food
- Diamond: Flextronics Technology (Penang) Sdn Bhd
- Gold: Cheng & Co Group
- STAR Partner Award
- Platinum: Intel Microelectronics (M) Sdn Bhd
- Diamond: TDCX Malaysia
- Gold: Malayan Banking Berhad (Maybank)
- Rising Star Partner Award
- Platinum: Averis
- Diamond: OCBC Bank (Malaysia) Berhad
- Gold: U Mobile Sdn Bhd
- ESG Edge Award
- Platinum: WWF-Malaysia
- Diamond: ZUS Coffee
- Gold: Averis
The winners of INTI Edge ESG Award 2024 pose for a photo on stage with Naomi Yang (far left), Assistant Vice President of Career Services, and Dr Jane Lim (far right), Chief Executive of INTI International College Subang.
Showcasing Student Talent
INTI students were also in the spotlight, presenting the results of their employer-driven projects. A standout presentation came from Balasubramaniam Muniandy, a Master’s degree candidate from the Faculty of Data Science & Information Technology, who showcased his award-winning project, Enhancing Flood Resilience Through Technology. This IoT and AI-powered solution earned the Best Paper Per Track Award at the International Conference on Innovation and Technopreneurship 2024.
Other notable projects included:
- Design of Durability Testing Jig for Metal Rack (Employer: GIVI Asia Sdn Bhd) by Koong Shao Hong and Loo Chang Wong
- Upcycled Denim: Paving the Way for a Sustainable Future (Employer: The LINC KL) by Lau Hui Yin and Wong Yin Yie
- Host Helper: Get the Right Quote, Every Time! (Employer: DHL) by Sophie Nadine Jacobs and Goh En Ting
- Virtual Reality (VR) Project: Visit IICP! by Tan Guan Yi
Tan Guan Yi from INTI International College Penang guiding an industry partner to “visit” his campus via Virtual Reality (VR) during the Industry Partners Appreciation Dinner 2024.
Looking Ahead
The evening was more than a celebration of achievements—it reaffirmed INTI’s vision to advance impactful collaborations between academia and industry. With the ongoing support of its valued partners, INTI remains committed to empowering students to succeed in an ever-evolving workforce while contributing to Malaysia’s progress on a global scale.