Chen said the exercise is an effort to support Malaysia’s digital transformation and meet Asean’s demand for future-ready talent.

“Key focus areas to be undertaken by the new leadership will include curriculum reform, applied research, smart campus infrastructure, and talent development,” he said at the rebranding ceremony of KLUST today.

Chen said KLUST plans to strengthen partnerships with governments, industries, and academia to support these focus areas and position itself as a regional digital innovation hub.

“We hope any collaboration with us will be a win-win (situation) for both sides,” he said.

Cheras MP Tan Kok Wai, who was present at the event, stressed the need for nations to be built on education and strengthened by science and technology.

“No country can succeed today if it fails in science and technology. Malaysia must invest in developing more technological talent if we want to be a stronger power,” he said.

Last month, the university entered a new phase of transformation under the leadership of Star Teenagers International, signalling its shift towards a technology-driven, people-centred, and impact-focussed model of education.

The transition follows Star Teenagers International’s acquisition of a 90% stake in Ikram Education, the holding company of IUKL, from its previous owner, Protasco Bhd.

This change in leadership was formalised through a symbolic handover of the university’s official company stamp today, marking the official transfer of control.

Chen, who also chairs Star Teenagers International, announced plans to introduce new doctoral programmes in emerging fields including artificial intelligence, digital arts and AI networks, new energy vehicles, augmented reality in education, AI in healthcare, as well as innovations in transport and logistics.

Complementary masters and undergraduate programmes are also in the pipeline to build a comprehensive, future-oriented talent ecosystem.