In a statement, UM said Fernandes’ wealth of experience in the aviation industry and business leadership will bring invaluable insights to students, lecturers, and the university as a whole.

UM said with more than 35 years of experience in various industries, he could provide students with unparalleled access to industry expertise and bridge academic knowledge with real-world business practices.

Fernandes is expected to deliver multiple lectures, seminars, and workshops annually and will assist UM in developing strategic partnerships with both national and international organisations.

UM vice-chancellor Noor Azuan Abu Osman said building partnerships with key industrial leaders and institutions in critical sectors was a central part of the university’s strategy.

“Fernandes’ presence reflects the strategic synergy of being future driven in creating new domains of teaching and learning experience for our campus community,” he said.

“The end result will be of great importance to the higher goal of industrialising new outcomes. It is for the good of our nation in terms of skill and knowledge cultivation.”

Fernandes is best known for transforming AirAsia, which Capital A operates, into one of Asia’s largest and most successful airlines.