Curtin Malaysia explores strategic partnership with UNIQLO to boost graduate employability and sustainability initiatives

Miri, Sarawak – 13 April 2026 – Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia) is taking a significant step toward strengthening industry-academia collaboration following a high-level visit from representatives of Fast Retailing Co. Ltd. and UNIQLO Malaysia, signalling promising opportunities for student development, graduate employability, and sustainability-driven initiatives.

The visit brought together global and regional leaders from the retail giant, including Global Human Resources Manager James Yan, Human Resources & Legal Director Evelyn Tan, and Human Resources Manager Audrey Tho. Their engagement with Curtin Malaysia underscores a shared commitment to nurturing future-ready talent and fostering meaningful industry partnerships.

Welcoming the delegation, Professor Vincent Lee Chieng Chen, Pro Vice-Chancellor, President and Chief Executive of Curtin Malaysia, highlighted the strategic importance of the collaboration.

“UNIQLO’s global reputation for innovation, sustainability, and people development aligns closely with our mission to equip students with the skills and mindset needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving world,” he said. “This engagement reflects our continued commitment to bridging academia with industry in impactful ways.”

Professor Lee emphasised that collaborations of this nature go beyond traditional partnerships, offering students valuable exposure to real-world business practices and global career pathways. “By working with forward-thinking organisations like UNIQLO, we can create transformative learning experiences that extend beyond the classroom,” he added.

The session featured an overview of Curtin Malaysia’s academic strengths and industry engagement initiatives, followed by an insightful presentation by James Yan, who introduced UNIQLO’s global vision and its flagship UNIQLO Management Candidate (UMC) Programme. The programme is designed to fast-track young talent into leadership roles, targeting final-year students and fresh graduates.

A highlight of the visit was an interactive meet-and-greet session, where students engaged directly with UNIQLO representatives, gaining first-hand insights into career opportunities, workplace culture, and the expectations of a leading global brand.

Senior Curtin Malaysia academics were also present, including Professor Tuong-Thuy Vu, Deputy Pro Vice-Chancellor; Professor Pauline Ho, Dean of the Faculty of Business; and key faculty leaders including Dr. Ivy Hii Siaw Hung, Associate Dean of External Engagement; Dr. Dhanuskodi Rengasamy, Head of the Department of Accounting and Finance; Dr. Ting Qian Hui, Head of the Department of Management and Marketing; and Dr. Fayrene Chieng Yew Leh, Associate Dean of Learning and Teaching, reflecting a strong institutional commitment to advancing industry-linked education.

The visit marks the beginning of what both parties hope will evolve into a dynamic and mutually beneficial partnership, with potential collaborations in talent development, internships, graduate employment pathways, and sustainability-focused initiatives.

“We are optimistic that this is just the start of a meaningful collaboration that will create lasting value for our students, staff, and the wider community,” Professor Lee concluded.

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

Curtin Malaysia academic leaders in a group photo with representatives from Fast Retailing and UNIQLO Malaysia.

Professor Pauline Ho engaging with UNIQLO representatives in a casual discussion.

James Yan speaking during an interactive meet-and-greet session with Curtin Malaysia students.

Students and faculty members posing with Fast Retailing and UNIQLO Malaysia leaders following the engagement session.