Kuala Lumpur, 17 March 2026 – Malaysia’s Deputy Minister of Finance, YB Liew Chin Tong, today met with Chairman Chen Xiaoyun of Kuala Lumpur University of Science and Technology (KLUST) and his delegation to discuss strengthening bilateral cooperation in higher education, technological innovation, and industry–education integration.
The meeting, held at 10:00 AM, focused on advancing Malaysia’s higher education ecosystem and enhancing collaboration between Malaysia and China across key sectors including research, innovation, and cultural exchange.
Deputy Minister Liew welcomed the delegation and commended KLUST’s rapid progress under Chairman Chen’s leadership. He noted that the Malaysian government places strong emphasis on the role of education and technology in driving economic transformation and national development. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to fostering a supportive environment for higher education institutions through policy support and strategic initiatives.
Chairman Chen expressed appreciation for the warm reception and highlighted KLUST’s development philosophy and strategic vision. Inspired by the legacy of Tan Kah Kee, KLUST is committed to promoting educational excellence, industry–education integration, and international collaboration. The university aims to serve as an open platform that nurtures talent, drives innovation, and contributes to Malaysia, ASEAN, and beyond.
During the meeting, Deputy Minister Liew shared updates on Malaysia’s national strategies, including strengthening the nation through science and technology, education, and talent development. He also emphasized the importance of youth empowerment and expressed hope that KLUST can contribute to the transformation of Malaysian small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
Chairman Chen outlined KLUST’s future development roadmap, emphasizing its ambition to become a leading science and technology university in Malaysia and the ASEAN region. Key strategic priorities include:
- Advancing industry–education integration and international partnerships
- Building integrated ecosystems linking academia, industry, research, and innovation
- Aligning with ASEAN regional development initiatives
He also highlighted several ongoing and planned initiatives, including:
- Establishment of international collaboration platforms such as the China–ASEAN Industry–Education Integration Consortium and AI Smart Transportation Innovation Center
- Expansion of global research networks with innovation hubs in Beijing, Shanghai, and Shenzhen
- Strategic partnerships with leading organizations such as Huawei and iSoftStone to develop AI research centers and innovation platforms
- Joint talent development programs with top global universities in areas such as artificial intelligence, digital technology, and new energy
- Technology incubation and entrepreneurship initiatives in collaboration with international partners
Chairman Chen emphasized KLUST’s commitment to becoming a key platform for international education cooperation, technological innovation, and cultural exchange, contributing to regional development and global progress.
Deputy Minister Liew praised KLUST’s vision and progress, and reaffirmed the Malaysian government’s continued support. He encouraged KLUST to outline specific policy needs and collaboration opportunities, noting that relevant government agencies would work to facilitate support.
He further expressed confidence that KLUST could serve as a model for China–Malaysia cooperation in education and technology, cultivating globally competent talent and strengthening bilateral relations.
The meeting concluded in a constructive and forward-looking atmosphere, with both parties expressing strong commitment to deepening collaboration and contributing to the advancement of higher education, innovation, and economic development in the region.
