KUALA LUMPUR: The Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology (TAR UMT), a not-for-profit higher-learning institution, added another sterling facility to its Setapak campus to better serve the needs of its students and entrepreneurs.
TARC Education Foundation Board of Trustees chairman Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong said the newly-constructed TAR UMT Arena is more than just a building.
“It is a symbol of our unwavering dedication to nation-building and our commitment to providing a holistic, beyond-education experience for students.
“This 1.5 million sq ft (139,354sq m) facility has been thoughtfully designed to serve as a central hub for student life and for nurturing the next generation of entrepreneurs,” said Dr Wee in his speech during the soft launch of TAR UMT Arena at Setapak yesterday.
Grand celebration: Dr Wee (eighth from left) launching the Music Fiesta 6.0 at TAR UMT Arena in Kuala Lumpur. With him are (from fifth from left) Liow, TAR UMT President Prof Datuk Dr Lee Sze Wei, and TAR UMT Board of Governors Chan, Yew and Dr Mah.
He also said the TAR UMT Arena marks a new chapter in the university’s rich history and is set to be the foundation of the local community in future.
“As we celebrate this soft launch, let us remember that this is just the beginning. It is the start of a new chapter in TAR UMT’s history.
“We must continue to support our students and entrepreneurs, and ensure that the TAR UMT Arena becomes a cornerstone of our community for many years to come,” he said.
TAR UMT Arena is a state-of-the-art infrastructure equipped with various modern facilities, including a multi-purpose activity hall, a FIFA-certified standard full-sized football field, an eight-lane, 400m running track, examination halls, a multi-purpose indoor sports court and a host of F&B outlets, among others.
Also present were TAR UMT Board of Governors chairman Tan Sri Chan Kong Choy, Board of Trustees members Tan Sri Liow Tiong Lai, Datuk Dr Mah Hang Soon, Datuk Seri Yew Teong Look, and Datuk Roger Tan Kor Mee, among others.
The MCA president said just last year, a topping-out ceremony for the TAR UMT Arena was held, where the university celebrated a structural milestone and pledged a future where learning, entrepreneurship, and collaboration will thrive.
“Today, that promise has been realised. We transformed the vision into a vibrant reality - a state-of-the-art facility that will truly become the heart of our campus,” Dr Wee said of the RM210mil facility.
According to Dr Wee, the TAR UMT Arena offers a dedicated recreational hub with F&B outlets, student lounges, and ample space for clubs and societies.
“It also boasts modern sports facilities, including this FIFA-certified football field and multi-purpose indoor courts, providing a perfect environment for a healthy and progressive campus life,” he said.
For SME and entrepreneurs, Dr Wee said the TAR UMT Arena provides a dedicated centre equipped with co-working spaces, meeting rooms, galleries and a pitching hall.
“This is where innovation will be born, where small businesses will find the resources and community they need to transform their ideas into reality, and where we will continue to strengthen the country’s economic foundation,” he added.
The soft launch of TAR UMT Arena was held alongside the university’s annual concert called the TAR UMT Music Fiesta.
Dr Wee said the TAR UMT Music Fiesta is the perfect representation of the vibrant campus environment envisioned for the TAR UMT Arena.
“This event, now in its sixth year, is a testament that education at TAR UMT is about more than just academics; it’s about fostering creativity, collaboration, and a dynamic student community.
“I am happy to see so many of our students, alumni and friends here to celebrate with us,” he said.
Dr Wee also thanked the TAR UMT Land and Development Committee for its leadership in transforming the blueprint into a six-storey building with 1,431 car parking bays after nearly four years of construction.
