Curtin Malaysia and KPMG Malaysia forge strategic alliance to strengthen industry-ready talent pipeline

Miri, Sarawak – 14 April 2026 – Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia) has strengthened its commitment to producing industry-ready graduates through a strategic partnership with KPMG Malaysia, formalised via a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in Kuching.

The collaboration underscores a shared ambition to bridge academic learning with real-world professional practice, enhancing student exposure to the accounting and finance industry while supporting the development of future-ready talent.

The MoU signing ceremony, held at KPMG’s Kuching office, brought together senior representatives from both organisations, reflecting the importance placed on deepening university–industry collaboration.

Representing Curtin Malaysia were Professor Vincent Lee, Pro Vice-Chancellor, President and Chief Executive; Professor Pauline Ho, Dean of the Faculty of Business; Dr Ivy Hii, Associate Dean (External Engagement); Dr Dhanuskodi Rengasamy, Head of Department (Accounting and Finance); and Muhamad Rahman Sallehin, Manager of External Engagement.

KPMG Malaysia was represented by Fiona Ho, Director of People, Performance & Culture, and Nicholas Chia, Audit Partner.

Under the partnership, Curtin Malaysia students will gain access to a range of industry-focused initiatives, including internship placements, guest lectures, industry-led projects, and professional knowledge-sharing sessions led by KPMG practitioners.

These opportunities are designed to strengthen students’ technical competencies in accounting and finance while also developing essential soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and professional adaptability.

Students will also benefit from direct engagement with KPMG professionals and alumni networks, enabling them to gain early exposure to corporate culture and workplace expectations. This early immersion is expected to significantly enhance graduate employability and readiness for professional careers.

Both organisations emphasised that collaborations of this nature are critical in shaping a workforce equipped to meet evolving industry demands, particularly in the accounting and finance sectors.

The MoU reflects a continued commitment by Curtin Malaysia and KPMG Malaysia to nurture talent, support knowledge exchange, and strengthen the bridge between higher education and industry practice.

For more information on Curtin Malaysia, visit curtin.edu.my or follow Curtin Malaysia on Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn or TikTok.

Representatives from Curtin University Malaysia and KPMG in Malaysia at the MOU signing ceremony held at KPMG Kuching office (from left: Muhamad Rahman Sallehin, Fiona Ho, Nicholas Chia, Professor Vincent Lee, Professor Pauline Ho, Dr Ivy Hii, and Dr Dhanuskodi)

Professor Vincent Lee (right) presenting a token of appreciation to Nicholas Chia during the MOU signing ceremony between Curtin University Malaysia and KPMG in Malaysia.