INTI International University & Colleges has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with U Mobile, Malaysia’s upcoming second 5G network provider, to enhance talent development by integrating academic learning with real-world industry experience. The signing took place at U Mobile’s headquarters in November 2024, with final details confirmed before the new year.
Through this partnership, INTI students and graduates will gain access to U Mobile’s structured training programmes designed to prepare them for careers in a fast-evolving digital landscape. These include the IT Apprenticeship Programme, a two-year initiative focused on artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, data analytics, cloud computing, and cybersecurity. Additionally, the Internship Programme offers hands-on experience in software development, engineering, and finance while equipping students with essential workplace skills like communication, problem-solving, teamwork, and adaptability.
The collaboration also extends to a Graduate Trainee Programme, creating a direct recruitment pipeline between U Mobile and INTI’s top talent. Beyond student opportunities, the MoU enables U Mobile employees to upskill through INTI’s Working Professional Programme, further strengthening ties between industry and academia.
Prof. Dr. Shamsul Nahar Abdullah, Interim Pro Vice-Chancellor of Academic Operations at INTI International University, highlighted the importance of bridging education with industry needs.
“At INTI, we are dedicated to preparing students with industry-relevant skills that translate into career success. This partnership with U Mobile strengthens that commitment, providing our students with direct exposure to the telecommunications sector through internships, graduate trainee programmes, and skills workshops,” he said.
(Left to right) Neil Tomkinson, Chief Information Officer of U Mobile; Norfazidah Abu Bakar, Chief Corporate Services Officer of U Mobile; Prof. Dr Shamsul Nahar Abdullah, Pro Vice-Chancellor (Academic Operations), INTI International University; and Or Seng Yeang, Head of Career Services, INTI International University, after signing the Memorandum of Understanding.
Norfazidah Abu Bakar, U Mobile’s Chief Corporate Services Officer, emphasised U Mobile’s role in developing local talent.
“U Mobile is committed to nurturing local talent, and this partnership with INTI allows us to provide students with valuable industry exposure. We support Malaysia’s goal of becoming a high-income, digitally empowered nation, and we believe our technical expertise will be invaluable in shaping the next generation of professionals. In addition to internships and graduate programmes, we aim to collaborate with educational institutions by providing industry feedback on curricula, engaging in joint research, and more. As Malaysia’s future second 5G network provider, U Mobile will soon launch a 5G Innovation Centre, where students and graduates can test, study, and analyse technology-driven projects in collaboration with our partners.”
U Mobile was recognised as 2nd Runner-Up in the 2024 Graduates’ Choice Award for Preferred Employer in the Telecommunications Industry, reinforcing its position as a top employer in Malaysia’s telco and technology sector. The company was also awarded the Gold Rising Star Award at INTI’s Industry Partners Appreciation Dinner 2024, highlighting its role in supporting education and talent development.
The MoU was signed by Prof. Dr. Shamsul Nahar Abdullah, Pro Vice-Chancellor (Academic Operations) of INTI International University, and Norfazidah Abu Bakar, Chief Corporate Services Officer of U Mobile, and was witnessed by Neil Tomkinson, Chief Information Officer of U Mobile, and Or Seng Yeang, Head of Career Services at INTI International University, at U Mobile’s headquarters
Delegates from INTI enjoy a tour of the U Mobile Headquarters.