Latest news with #UMS
Borneo Post
11 hours ago
- Business
- Borneo Post
UMS recognised as premier digital tech institution
Wilson (seated, centre) with invited guests and attendees during the CSR @ UMS 2025 Programme held at the university today. KOTA KINABALU (June 20): Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS), in collaboration with the Ministry of Digital and the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC), hosted the CSR @ UMS 2025 Programme, a corporate social responsibility initiative aimed at advancing digital talent and digital literacy across the campus community. The event, held today, was officiated by Deputy Minister of Digital, Datuk Wilson Ugak Anak Kumbong, who also presented the Premier Digital Tech Institution (PDTI) plaque to UMS's Faculty of Computing and Informatics (FKI), formally recognising it as a strategic driver in the nation's digital ecosystem. 'Today marks the formal recognition of the Faculty of Computing and Informatics (FKI), UMS, as one of Malaysia's premier digital tech institutions. 'This accolade is more than a symbol of academic excellence. It comes with a weighty responsibility. FKI is now the only PDTI-recognised institution in Sabah, positioning UMS as a key talent development hub for East Malaysia,' Wilson said. He further emphasised that the PDTI status enables strategic access to industry collaboration, knowledge transfer, lecturer training and hands-on student exposure to emerging technologies and critical industry-relevant digital skills. Wilson noted that UMS's recognition adds to the success of the national PDTI ecosystem spearheaded by MDEC since 2017. The initiative, developed in cooperation with the Ministry of Higher Education (KPT) and various technology industry partners, is one of the country's flagship programmes to bolster digital talent. To date, 46 faculties from 28 higher education institutions nationwide including 11 public universities, 10 private universities and seven polytechnics have been conferred PDTI status. Under the 12th Malaysia Plan (RMK-12), MDEC's talent development programmes have benefitted nearly 400,000 students through various initiatives such as hackathons, digital literacy workshops, industry talks, bootcamps, seminars and professional certification schemes. For 2025 alone, MDEC is tasked with equipping 150,000 students across all levels with digital and entrepreneurial skills, with PDTI institutions playing a critical role in achieving this nationwide target. As part of the UMS programme, a digital literacy workshop was also held, aimed at introducing fundamental technology awareness, enhancing digital capabilities among students and staff and promoting responsible, inclusive use of digital tools. 'Programmes like this demonstrate the immense potential when government, industry and academia work together. 'Together, we can nurture a digitally literate society, one that not only adopts technology, but uses it ethically and strategically,' Wilson added. Among those present were UMS Vice-Chancellor Professor Datuk Kasim Mansor and Dean of the Faculty of Computing and Informatics, Associate Professor Ts Dr Mohd Hanafi Ahmad Hijazi. In his remarks, Kasim described the PDTI recognition as a historic milestone for UMS, symbolising not just academic and research excellence in digital technology, but also UMS's emerging role as a regional leader in digital talent development, in line with its aspiration of being the brain of Borneo.
The Star
12 hours ago
- Health
- The Star
UMS camp stirs rural students' interest in AI healthcare applications
KOTA KINABALU: A recent Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) event brought science and technology education to rural students in a fun, inspiring way. Over 120 students from 12 secondary schools in the Kudat district took part in the two-day Science and Art Camp: Future Doctor in Tech, a hackathon-style event designed to spark interest in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) and artificial intelligence (AI), especially in healthcare. Organised by UMS' One Health Student Club (OHSC) in collaboration with the U-Science Centre, the National Science Centre, and the Kudat district Education Office, the camp received support from Unesco and the Science, Technology and Innovation Ministry. 'We used a hackathon concept to introduce students to AI in healthcare through hands-on activities and group mentoring. 'The goal is not just to give them knowledge, but the confidence and curiosity to explore STEM careers, especially medicine,' said OHSC adviser Dr Zulkhairul Naim Sidek Ahmad. Hackathons are collaborative events where participants work intensely on projects over a short period. For this camp, the students engaged in team-based projects mentored by professionals, culminating in interactive presentations. They also learned how technology is shaping the future of healthcare. At the closing ceremony, UMS Medicine and Health Sciences Faculty deputy dean Dr Mohammad Firdaus Bolong said the programme aimed to ensure that 'no child, no matter where they are, is left behind in the science and technology wave.' 'STEM education is not just about knowledge, but about building critical, creative and innovative thinking. We must reach out to rural communities and equip them to be part of our nation's future,' he said. "We learned so many new things, especially how technology can help in healthcare," said camp participant Vivilleahlyn Majiman, from SMK Pinawantai. "It's opened my eyes to a whole new world – being a doctor sounds so futuristic now." The programme is seen as an example of how inclusive, creative learning can help bridge the education gap between urban and rural students, while igniting their dreams and potential. Also present were Kudat deputy Education officer Amiluddin Majuki and guest speaker Dr Aimi Shazwani Ghazali from the International Islamic University Malaysia.
Borneo Post
a day ago
- Politics
- Borneo Post
PKR Sabah backs MACC probe into mining scandal
Mustapha (second right) and Kasim (to his left) watching a briefing on NMM 2025. KOTA KINABALU (June 19): Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) Sabah fully supports the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC)'s investigation into the mining licence corruption scandal involving several state assemblymen. PKR Sabah chairman Datuk Ts Mustapha Sakmud emphasized that the Madani Government does not tolerate corruption, contrary to claims by other parties and an upcoming anti-corruption rally. He said MACC's move to record statements from several assemblymen and the possibility of court charges demonstrates the government's seriousness in addressing the issue. When asked whether the scandal could affect potential cooperation between Pakatan Harapan (PH) and Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) in the upcoming state election, Mustapha said such investigations are part of the normal process. 'Corruption is an issue that transcends political boundaries. Other parties have also been involved and charged in court,' he said. 'However, we should not use this as a basis to reject any form of cooperation. Cooperation is not only political — it also includes working together on manifestos and shared aspirations to combat corruption in Sabah.' He was speaking to reporters after closing the Nutrition Month Malaysia (NMM) 2025 programme at Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) on Thursday. Mustapha was responding to a recent statement by MACC Chief Commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki, who said two assemblymen and a businessman will be charged in connection with the alleged corruption scandal. On another note, Mustapha, who is also Deputy Higher Education Minister, lauded the annual NMM programme organised by UMS' Food Science and Nutrition Faculty for promoting awareness on shifting from 'sick care' to disease prevention. Citing the National Health and Morbidity Survey 2024, he said young adults, including university students, are consuming less fruits and vegetables, have high sugary drink intake, and lead sedentary lifestyles. He also highlighted rising concerns over mental health issues and increasing rates of overweight and obesity. 'These findings are very worrying and need to be given serious attention by all levels of society, especially our youth and students, who are the backbone of the nation. 'The health of our youth today will shape their future capabilities and competitiveness,' he said. Mustapha welcomed the initiative by UMS and supporting agencies in organising NMM 2025, stating that building a healthy generation should begin from a young age. 'This requires a comprehensive and integrated approach involving government, the private sector, industries and the public,' he added. Also present at the programme was UMS Vice Chancellor Prof Datuk Dr Kasim Mansor.
The Star
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Star
Sabah student's stories on mental health to be published by Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka
KOTA KINABALU: From a quiet corner of Sandakan town to the national literary stage, Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) student Mohammad Azmir Misnani is proving that even the softest voices can echo powerfully. And Azmir does this through what he does best, his writing. Through a debut short story collection, compiled in a book titled Kelopak Mawar (Rose Petals), Azmir explores deep emotional and psychological themes. The book will soon be published by Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka (DBP) Sabah after earning top honours in the 2025 AdiKarya Penulis Muda competition. Azmir, a final-year student from the Faculty of Humanities, Arts and Heritage, grew up in Batu Sapi, a town better known for its fishing villages than for fiction writers. Yet his collection of stories, written with haunting beauty and psychiatric insight, impressed the jury with its honesty and bravery. 'These stories speak for the ones who suffer in silence. Kelopak Mawar was written for all those whose voices go unheard, those struggling with inner battles no one else sees,' Azmir said, referring to the book's inspiration. What makes Kelopak Mawar especially impactful is how it delicately uses elements from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) as metaphors, creating symbolic characters who reflect different emotional conditions. 'The stories do not diagnose, they resonate. They are not medical, they are mirrors,' he said. Azmir added that the collection was also a form of personal healing: 'I wanted the stories to offer a kind of companionship. When people read them, I hope they'll feel seen. Maybe even comforted. Because sometimes, literature listens when people won't.' UMS lecturer Dr Yusliza Mohd Yusof, who mentored Azmir throughout the AdiKarya programme, described the manuscript as 'poetically brave and unapologetically raw.' 'This is the kind of youth literature Malaysia needs, relevant, sensitive, and aesthetically mature. Azmir's work has the potential to spark a much-needed conversation about mental health among young people,' she said. Azmir is among four UMS student winners selected by DBP Sabah for publication this year under the AdiKarya Penulis Muda initiative, which is aimed at nurturing the next generation of literary voices in East Malaysia. For Azmir, this journey from campus writer to soon-to-be published author is more than a personal milestone, it is a message. 'You don't have to be loud to be heard. You just have to be honest,' he said. And with Kelopak Mawar now blooming into the hands of readers, Azmir's words, once kept quiet, are finally finding their way into hearts nationwide.
Borneo Post
2 days ago
- Politics
- Borneo Post
Volunteer leader lodges police report over anti-graft rally
Jerry showing a copy of his police report. KOTA KINABALU (June 18): A prominent state volunteer has lodged a police report against an upcoming public rally, citing concerns over alleged external political influence and potential threats to public order. Datuk Jerry Ambuting Mohd Said, the former president of the Association of Honorary Members of the Malaysian Volunteers Association (RELA), filed the report at the Tanjung Aru Police Station at 3.19pm on Tuesday. The report pertains to the 'Perarakan Perhimpunan Aman Gempur Rasuah Sabah 2.0,' scheduled to take place on June 21 and 22. The gathering, which is expected to proceed from Suria Sabah shopping centre to Lintasan Deasoka, is reportedly organized by a group called Suara Mahasiswa UMS, led by Fadhil Kasim and several associates. Despite the rally being promoted as a 'peaceful' march, Jerry expressed doubts over its true nature and intentions. 'I believe there are elements of sedition and external influence, possibly involving opposition parties attempting to use students for their narrow political agenda,' he said in a statement on Wednesday. He emphasized that using university students—particularly from Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS)—for political purposes is unethical and risks damaging the reputation of higher education institutions. 'Students should uphold intellectual and academic ideals, not serve as tools for street protests driven by vested interests,' he added. Jerry also voiced concerns about the rally's impact on public peace and safety, highlighting the potential for disruptions to businesses in the city center, provocation by extremist groups, and the risk of racial or religious tensions. In light of these concerns, he urged the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM) to investigate the rally's organizers and financial backers to determine whether external political elements are involved. 'We in Sabah are known for our rationality and respect for the rule of law. Street demonstrations are not part of our culture,' he stressed. Jerry also called on parents and the wider community to remain vigilant and not be misled by political propaganda or emotionally charged narratives targeting the youth. 'Sabah needs unity and stability, not disruptive street activities that jeopardize the harmony we've nurtured for so long,' he concluded. Organisers of the 'Gempur Rasuah Sabah 2.0' anti-corruption rally are expecting around 10,000 participants, including students, activists and NGOs from Sabah, Sarawak and Peninsular Malaysia, to turn up in solidarity with their cause. Their spokesperson said the student-led movement had submitted a formal notice to the Kota Kinabalu District Police Headquarters (IPD), as required under the Peaceful Assembly Act. The rally organisers are making several key demands, including legal action against the State Water Department over the UMS water supply fiasco, a complete reform of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) commissioner appointment process, harsher penalties for individuals found guilty of giving or receiving bribes and public dissatisfaction to be voiced over the current Head of State, Tun Musa Aman, due to his controversial past.
