Curtin Malaysia inks collaborative MoU with UOB Malaysia

Miri – 10 November 2023 – Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with United Overseas Bank (UOB) Malaysia to establish a collaborative partnership to enhance the academic experience of students and create opportunities for faculty and staff members.

Representing UOB Malaysia at the signing were Head of Worksite Marketing and First Vice President Karen Heng Hui Fung; WP Certified Mortgage Advisor, Vice President 2 and Sales Manager (Mortgage) Alex Tan; Vice President 2 (Worksite Marketing) Violet Ong; and UOB Miri Branch manager George Lai Ted Min.

Meanwhile, representing Curtin Malaysia were Pro Vice-Chancellor, President and Chief Executive Prof. Simon Leunig; Deputy Pro Vice-Chancellor Prof. Vincent Lee; Dean of Faculty of Business Prof. Pauline Ho; Associate Dean of External Engagement Yip Ka Yii; Head of Department of Accounting, Finance and Economics Dr. Dhanuskodi Rengasamy; and accounting lecturer Dr. Lynn Ling.

One of the highlights of this collaboration is the introduction of exclusive financial plans tailored for Curtin Malaysia’s students and staff, such as UOB’s U@Campus and U@Work programmes. These financial plans offer a range of benefits, including preferential interest rates, flexible repayment options, and access to financial literacy programmes. This initiative aims to support the financial well-being of the university community and empower individuals to achieve their educational and career goals.

The two organisations will also join forces to share leading practices and knowledge in banking trends and development, which will empower students of Curtin Malaysia with real-world insights, equipping them for success in the dynamic world of finance.

Furthermore, UOB Malaysia will play an integral role in the students’ professional development through its Management Associate Programme and Personal Banker Associate Proigramme. This includes conducting financial literacy talks, and providing career opportunities and internships with the bank. UOB Malaysia will also support student events and activities, reinforcing its commitment to holistic education.

In addition, the MoU facilitates the implementation of innovative business systems at Curtin Malaysia, including cashless solutions at Curtin Malaysia’s cafeteria and bookstore, making daily transactions more convenient for the campus community. Additionally, UOB Malaysia will assist Curtin Malaysia to implement an AR Reconciliation system to streamline administrative processes, fostering greater efficiency and accuracy.

Prof. Leunig expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, saying the it signifies a commitment to excellence, innovation, and mutual growth. “We are delighted to partner with UOB Malaysia, a leading institution in the field of banking and finance. This partnership will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on our institution and the future leaders we nurture. I would like to express my gratitude to UOB Malaysia for their willingness to embark on this exciting venture with us,” he remarked.

Heng also shared her views on the partnership, saying, “We are thrilled to collaborate with Curtin Malaysia to create an impactful experience for students and staff. At UOB, we believe in empowering individuals to pursue their aspirations and achieve financial success. Through this collaboration, we aim to provide comprehensive solutions that meet the diverse needs of the university community.”

She said the U@Campus programme aims to bring students better financial benefits and convenience and prepare them for the work environment, giving them direct access to internship and employment opportunities with UOB, while the U@Work programme will help employees of Curtin Malaysia in their financial planning.

She added that the financial literacy talks to be conducted at Curtin Malaysia will also benefit the students and staff. She said that such sharing was in line with the three key pillars of UOB’s people philosophy which focuses on treating others with care, encouraging growth and trust for one another, and working collaborative and respectfully with every individual.

Curtin Malaysia is the largest international campus of Curtin University, Australia, located in Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia. It offers a wide range of innovative undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in various fields of study, including engineering, business, and humanities, as well as pre-university foundation and diploma that feed directly into its undergraduate offerings. Curtin Malaysia is committed to delivering high-quality education and research that prepares its graduates for successful careers in a global marketplace.

UOB Malaysia is a subsidiary of United Overseas Bank Limited, a leading bank in Asia with a global network spanning more than 500 offices in 19 countries and territories. UOB Malaysia provides a comprehensive range of financial services, including personal banking, corporate banking, commercial and corporate banking, wealth management, and insurance. The bank is dedicated to delivering exceptional customer experiences, driving sustainable growth, and contributing to the communities it serves.

It is believed that together, Curtin Malaysia and UOB Malaysia will create opportunities, inspire innovation, and shape a brighter future for students, their institutions, and the financial sector as a whole.

Information on Curtin Malaysia can be found on its website at curtin.edu.my, or look for Curtin Malaysia on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn or TikTok.

UOB’s Karen Heng and prof Simon Leunig signing copies of the MoU

Exchange of MoU documents after the signing