JOHOR BARU: Southern University College (Southern UC), Johor’s non-profit higher education institution, has achieved its RM10mil fundraising target for education development following fresh contributions announced during its 50th anniversary celebration.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke revealed that YTL Corporation Bhd agreed to donate RM1mil to the institution after his request for support for the local Chinese community, noting YTL’s major involvement in Johor’s Electrified Double Track Project.
"Without hesitation, they agreed to contribute RM1mil to Southern UC," said Loke at the event on Friday (Nov 21), earning applause from attendees.
Loke added that he also announced a RM500,000 contribution from DAP, helping the institution reach its RM10mil target after previously raising RM8.5mil.
He urged Southern UC to continue developing talent, especially as Johor undergoes rapid development, including the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone and the upcoming Rapid Transit System Link.
Loke presented the contributions to Southern UC board chairman Datuk Vincent Tan Meng Seng, witnessed by dignitaries and guests including Chinese Ambassador to Malaysia Ouyang Yujing.
Tan highlighted the institution’s growth, now comprising six faculties—Chinese Language and Culture, Traditional Chinese Medicine, Art and Design, Engineering and IT, Humanities and Social Sciences, and Business and Management. It also houses three schools and 10 research centres, with government-recognised programmes and partnerships with foreign universities.
He announced a new RM5mil first-phase plan to strengthen artificial intelligence teaching and research.
Tan also noted that Southern UC’s role as a talent development hub has been recognised by the state government, with the institution named a partner of the Johor Talent Development Council.
Southern College, located in Skudai, became a university college in 2012. Established in 1990, it is Malaysia’s first non-profit higher education institution, providing accessible tertiary-level education.
