WOU Partners with 3 Companies to Strengthen Manufacturing Talent Pipeline

Wawasan Open University (WOU) has entered into memorandums of understanding (MoUs) with TT Vision Technologies Sdn Bhd, Oppstar Technology Sdn Bhd, and Clarion (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd to enhance Malaysia's semiconductor and manufacturing talent pipeline.

The MoUs, which were signed at WOU's headquarters in Penang, place the university as the lead skills development partner for the three firms. The partnership will enable 200 technical and engineering professionals to gain the key skills necessary to succeed in the Industry 4.0 age.

WOU, Chief Executive & Vice Chancellor of Prof Dr Lily Chan emphasised the importance of industry-academia collaboration in addressing the rising demand for skilled professionals. “This partnership shows how universities and industries can work hand in hand to meet the evolving needs of the workforce,” she said. She added that integrating industry insights into the curriculum helps prepare professionals to face rapidly advancing global challenges.

Goon Koon Yin, CEO of TT Vision Technologies, highlighted the initiative’s potential to prepare employees for smart manufacturing and IoT integration, offering valuable career advancement opportunities.

Through the partnership, WOU will provide professional certificates and micro-credentials designed for each industry. For TT Vision, the university will issue a certification in IoT-Enabled Manufacturing Analytics, including IoT, data analytics, and integration with robotics. Micro-credentials earned in this program can be put towards degrees in mechatronics engineering or smart manufacturing.

Lee Chun Keat, Engineering Director of Oppstar Technology, stressed the focus on strengthening Malaysia’s semiconductor talent pool through specialised IC design skills, enhancing innovation and global competitiveness.

WOU, together with Oppstar Technology, will provide a professional certification in IC design with CMOS, mixed-signal circuit design, and digital IC design. Individuals are also able to earn credit hours toward WOU's Master of Science in System Design Engineering.

Nicholas Tan, Group Board Director of Clarion Malaysia, expressed excitement about expanding upskilling opportunities in automotive technology to maintain innovation and efficiency.

The partnership with Clarion Malaysia will provide staff access to postgraduate credentials, such as the Master of Science in Smart Manufacturing and the Master of Business Administration in Manufacturing Production and Management. These courses will prepare employees with both technical and leadership knowledge.

InvestPenang, CEO of Datuk Loo Lee Lian, the guest of honour at the signing ceremony, underscored the broader impact of the initiative. “This partnership strengthens Penang’s position as a hub for advanced technology and skilled talent, contributing to the state’s growth and its attractiveness as a prime destination for foreign investment,” she said.

Loo added that the initiative aligns with Malaysia’s STEM Talent Blueprint and the National Semiconductor Strategy, which are crucial for maintaining the country’s competitiveness in the global high-tech landscape.