Malaysian university, Omani firm sign MoU

FAIZA AL KALBANI
MUSCAT, OCT 14
Kuala Lumpur University of Science and Technology (KLUST) and Omani consultancy International Business Execution (IBE) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to explore cooperation in professional training, applied research and skills development. The agreement, signed during EduTraC Oman 2026 at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre, covers potential collaboration in executive education, consultancy, sustainability, corporate social responsibility and the exchange of expertise.
The MoU was signed by Prof Chen Xiaoyun, Chairman of KLUST's Board of Governors, and Dr Rashid bin Abdullah al Nasri, Chairman of IBE, in the presence of the Malaysian Ambassador to Oman. The agreement establishes a framework for exploring joint initiatives rather than committing the two institutions to specific programmes, and no implementation timetable, funding commitment or training targets were specified.
Professor Chen said cooperation between universities and businesses could help align academic programmes with industry requirements while creating opportunities for joint research, professional training and knowledge exchange. He outlined the university's priorities in a presentation titled 'Education and Industry Through Technology: Building a Shared Future Through International Partnerships', which focused on emerging fields including artificial intelligence, data science, robotics, new-energy vehicles, smart manufacturing and the digital economy.
He stressed the importance of integrating artificial intelligence across academic disciplines and expanding practical training to equip graduates with skills relevant to changing labour market requirements. He also discussed KLUST's plans to develop a Faculty of Smart Education, Humanities and Communication, alongside efforts to strengthen research and industry collaboration. The university is seeking to expand academic and technological cooperation linking Malaysia, China, other Asean countries and Oman.
Dr Al Nasri described the MoU as an initial step towards combining academic expertise with business experience, particularly in developing professional capabilities and training programmes that respond to market needs. He said the proposed cooperation could provide opportunities for joint initiatives and the exchange of specialist knowledge between Oman and Malaysia.
During the exhibition, KLUST also presented its bachelor's, master's and doctoral programmes to prospective students and education professionals. EduTraC Oman 2026, the 13th edition of the higher education, training and careers exhibition, ran from October 12 to 14.