VICE-CHANCELLOR TOWNHALL SESSION WITH THE CENTRE FOR MODERN LANGUAGES
PEKAN, 6 May 2026 – The Centre for Modern Languages (CML) at Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah (UMPSA) recently hosted a townhall session featuring the university's Vice-Chancellor, KOL Professor Ts. Dr. Yatimah binti Alias, alongside the top management team, including Dato' Saiful Bahri bin Ahmad Bakarim, Mr. Nursyuhaian Abdul Halim and Dean of the Centre for Modern Languages, Associate Professor Dr. Zuraina binti Ali.
In her address, KOL Professor Ts. Dr. Yatimah highlighted the importance of continuous training, strengthening knowledge and fostering close collaboration with industry players to ensure that the nation’s manufacturing and education sectors remain relevant, sustainable, and capable of contributing meaningfully towards the national development agenda. According to her, universities must continuously adapt to the evolving needs of industries by producing graduates who are knowledgeable, competent and equipped with future-ready skills.
She also emphasised the growing importance of presentation and communication skills among students and academic professionals. Strong presentation skills, she noted, are essential in helping graduates communicate ideas effectively, build confidence, and demonstrate professionalism in both academic and industrial settings. These competencies are increasingly valued by employers and play a significant role in preparing graduates to thrive in a competitive global workforce.
KOL Professor Ts. Dr. Yatimah further shared insights into the UMPSA Strategic Plan 2026–2030, which places strong emphasis on strengthening governance, enhancing financial management efficiency, developing academic and student talent, as well as implementing cost-saving initiatives across the university. She noted that the strategic plan reflects UMPSA’s commitment towards institutional sustainability, operational excellence, and impactful education that aligns with the university’s long-term aspirations.
CML extends its deepest gratitude to KOL Professor Ts. Dr. Yatimah and the university's leadership for taking the time to directly engage with the Centre's staff. This townhall served as an excellent platform to strengthen two-way communication between the highest levels of university management and the CML community.
The session encouraged an open and transparent dialogue, providing staff with a valuable opportunity to align with the university's broader strategic vision and discuss future trajectories. CML is highly optimistic that the valuable input and insights gathered during this session will be effectively translated into high-impact work excellence. Moving forward, the Centre remains fully committed to leveraging this guidance to drive continuous academic and operational success.
Written by: Siti Norzaimalina Abd Majid and Wan Raihan Wan Shaaidi