USM, KSSB SIGN MOA TO STRENGTHEN TALENT DEVELOPMENT AND MINERAL RESEARCH COLLABORATION

NIBONG TEBAL, 24 November 2025 - Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), through the School of Materials and Mineral Resources Engineering (PPKBSM), today signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with Kumpulan Semesta Sdn. Bhd. (KSSB) to strengthen strategic cooperation in talent development and research within the national mineral industry.

The MoA outlines collaborative initiatives including industrial training placements, the organisation of the Student Mineral Camp, staff and student exchanges, research, and development (R&D) programmes, workshops, as well as the sharing of technical data and materials between both institutions.

The partnership between USM and KSSB, a leading mining and quarrying company in Selangor – is expected to enhance the ecosystem of education, innovation, and human capital development in the fields of materials engineering and mineral resources.

Dean of PPKBSM, Professor Ts. Dr. Zulkifli Mohamad Ariff, said in his remarks that the USM–KSSB collaboration reflects a shared commitment to strengthening the mineral sector through education, research, and field exposure.

He added that the synergy between USM’s academic expertise and KSSB’s industry capabilities will contribute to producing highly knowledgeable, competent graduates who are better prepared to meet real industry demands.

“Access to field operations, current technologies and industry safety practices will provide significant added value for USM students and researchers in developing their professional competencies,” he said.

Meanwhile, KSSB Acting Chief Executive Officer, Mohd Bazli Kamin, expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to collaborate with a leading research university such as USM.

He emphasised KSSB’s commitment to providing technical support, industry data and operational exposure to help develop a more competitive future workforce.

“The combined strengths of both institutions will enhance mineral technology innovation, improve resource management efficiency and open opportunities for high-impact research projects,” Mohd Bazli said.

Both parties are confident that the collaboration will serve as a catalyst for the growth of Malaysia’s mineral resources sector, contributing towards sustainable development and strengthening the competitiveness of the nation’s mineral industry.

Text: Siti Faizah Abd Halim / Photo: Muhammad Taufik Abdul Rahman