LABUAN — Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) and the Labuan International Insurance Association (LIIA) today formalised a strategic partnership aimed at bridging academia and the insurance industry within the Federal Territory’s international financial ecosystem.
The collaboration was sealed through the signing of a Letter of Intent (LoI) between UMS, represented by its Labuan Faculty of International Finance (LFIF), and LIIA at the Executive Meeting Room, UMSKAL, here.
The partnership seeks to foster closer engagement between both institutions through various initiatives, including knowledge sharing, talent development, research collaboration, and professional development programmes.
It is also expected to strengthen Labuan’s position as a leading international business and financial centre.
LIIA Chairman Annie Undikai highlighted the importance of bridging academic insights with industry practices, noting that the collaboration would create valuable opportunities for both students and professionals alike.
Meanwhile, LFIF Dean Geoffrey Harvey Tanakinjal, who signed on behalf of UMS, emphasised the university’s commitment to producing industry-ready graduates and advancing impactful research aligned with industry needs.
He added that the collaboration would provide a strong platform for students to gain practical exposure and enhance their market employability.
The LoI signifies the mutual commitment of both parties to explore and implement collaborative initiatives that will benefit the academic community, industry stakeholders, and the broader financial services sector.
Also present at the ceremony were LIIA Immediate Past Chairman and Council Member G. Roy Suresh Sharma, LIIA Secretary David Yeoh Eng Hock, and LIIA Council Member Zaid Aziz Ibrahim.
Representing UMS were LFIF Deputy Dean of Student Affairs and Alumni Dr Noor Hassanah Husin, Deputy Dean of Research and Innovation Dr Alesia Sigang Gugkang, and Head of Program of International Offshore Banking Dr Andrew Saw Teck Wei.
