SEGi University successfully signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the prestigious Board of Engineers Malaysia (BEM), marking a significant milestone in advancing engineering education in Malaysia. The ceremony, held on 26 March 2024, saw esteemed representatives from both institutions come together to celebrate this pivotal collaboration.
In her thought-provoking address, Professor ChM Dr Teh Geok Bee highlighted the critical importance of ethical engineering practices and adherence to the stringent quality standards set by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) and the Engineering Accreditation Council (EAC). She expressed concerns over the declining interest among youth in science courses and stressed the need for sustainable programs to attract and retain engineering talent.
Datuk Ir Ahmad Redza Bin Ghulam Rasool, President of BEM, echoed these sentiments, emphasising the significance of long-term collaboration to tackle challenges in the engineering education landscape. He reinforced BEM’s pivotal role in ensuring quality standards and promoting international recognition for Malaysian engineering graduates, which is crucial in today’s globalised job market.
This MoU aims to streamline student registration processes with BEM, facilitating smoother entry into the engineering profession and promoting local talent retention. This effort aligns with the government’s push to enhance Malaysia’s position as a hub for high-quality engineering education. As part of this collaboration, BEM presented a mock cheque of RM 10,000 to SEGi University to establish the prestigious BEM President Award. This award will recognise academic excellence among engineering students during convocation ceremonies, further incentivising outstanding performance and dedication.
The collaboration between SEGi University and BEM is set against the backdrop of a global engineering market expected to grow significantly. According to a report by Grand View Research, the international engineering services market size was valued at USD 707.51 billion in 2020 and is expected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 24.3% from 2021 to 2028. This data underscores the importance of producing highly skilled and internationally recognised engineers.
By aligning with BEM, SEGi University reinforces its commitment to delivering top-notch engineering education and ensuring its graduates are well-prepared to meet industry demands. This partnership not only enhances the university’s academic standing but also significantly contributes to the broader goal of advancing Malaysia’s engineering sector.
This MoU signifies a crucial step forward in fostering excellence in engineering education and practice in Malaysia. It highlights SEGi University and BEM’s shared commitment to shaping the future of the engineering profession, ensuring that Malaysian engineers are at the forefront of global standards and innovation.