KUALA LUMPUR: The latest RM40mil matching grant to Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology (TAR UMT) is a crucial “lifeline” that will help the institution sustain its model of affordable, quality education, says Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong.
The MCA president and TARC Education Foundation board of trustees chairman said continued financial support from Putrajaya is vital for TAR UMT to uphold its long-standing policy of not turning away qualified students because of financial constraints.
“TAR UMT has never rejected any qualified student based on financial criteria.
“This matching grant is a ‘talian hayat’ (lifeline) for the institution, enabling us to sustain affordable excellence, where no potential is wasted and no dream is put on hold,” he said in his speech during the Temu Anwar@TAR UMT event at the university’s main campus in Setapak yesterday.
Also in the welcoming party were TAR UMT board of governors chairman Tan Sri Chan Kong Choy and TAR UMT president Prof Dr Lee Sze Wei.
Dr Wee said this commitment to access and affordability is why TAR UMT is widely regarded as a “universiti rakyat” (the people’s university), an identity the institution holds with pride.
“Since its establishment in 1969 as Kolej Tunku Abdul Rahman, this institution has remained committed to widening access to education and producing competent, ethical graduates with strong social awareness,” he said.
He noted that TAR UMT’s alumni network has grown to more than 320,000 graduates across various industries and communities, contributing significantly to Malaysia’s economic growth and social cohesion.
“These achievements would not have been possible without the continued trust of Malaysians and strong support from the government,” he added.
Dr Wee said TAR UMT’s current 10-Year Master Plan (2021–2030) is aligned with the Malaysia Madani vision, particularly in nurturing digitally ready professionals who can drive industrial and technological development.
He said the university is focused on developing talent for key sectors such as electrical and electronics (E&E), information and communications technology (ICT) and professional services, in line with the country’s move towards a higher-value economy.
Beyond academic training, Dr Wee reiterated that sustainability and social responsibility are central to TAR UMT’s “Beyond Education” philosophy.
“Our goal is not just to train graduates for the workforce, but to guide students to be environmentally conscious, socially responsible, rooted in national identity and equipped with a global outlook,” he added.
He said infrastructure development is also important in supporting these ambitions, citing Arena TAR UMT as a new hub for student activities encompassing learning, sports, recreation and leisure.
Housed within Arena TAR UMT is the SME Centre, which supports students and aspiring entrepreneurs in turning ideas into commercial products and services.
“Financial support from the government is essential for all these initiatives.
“To the TARCian community, I hope we all recognise the significance of today’s event.
“The mock cheque handover symbolises the country’s investment in your development,” he added, urging students to make full use of the opportunities given to them and to contribute back to society as alumni.
