SINTOK, 2 February 2026: Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM) is intensifying efforts to raise the national and international visibility of its academic experts while placing emphasis on the welfare of the campus community and the development of a sustainable institutional ecosystem.
The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Dr Ahmad Martadha Mohamed said that every school and centre of authority must play a proactive role in ensuring that the university’s scholars become leading references in their respective fields of expertise.
“If there is an international issue, the public should turn to lecturers from the School of International Studies. If it concerns legal matters, they should seek out our law experts. For financial issues, our finance specialists should be consulted, and for matters related to muamalah, muamalah scholars should be the primary reference. Our academics must be actively promoted so that their knowledge and contributions are widely recognised.
“At the same time, the welfare and well-being of the campus community are also given serious attention,” he said at the Vice-Chancellor’s New Year Address held at EDC-UUM, today.
In addition, UUM has designated one Tuesday each month as a meeting-free day to allow staff and students to focus on personal well-being and health-related activities. Among the initiatives introduced is a 3.8-kilometre walking rally.
Prof. Dr Ahmad Martadha further emphasised that UUM remains deeply committed to the well-being of its staff, including regular outreach to those who are unwell and initiatives to reduce workplace stress.
In support of holistic student development, he announced that all UUM students will be equipped with at least one professional certificate to enhance their employability and market value. This initiative will be complemented by stronger networks involving the university, industry and the wider community.
“UUM is also focused on building an agile and adaptive organisational culture, reducing paper usage through technology, and ensuring that meetings are conducted within a duration not exceeding three hours. The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into both the curriculum and administrative processes is another key agenda in modernising our education ecosystem,” he said.
In addition, he reaffirmed the university’s commitment to environmental sustainability. In line with Kedah’s state target of planting 2.2 million trees.
Also present at the ceremony were Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic and International), Prof. Dr Mohd Azizuddin Mohd Sani; Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation), Prof. Dr Ram Al Jaffri Saad who is also performing the duties of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Student Affairs and Alumni); Registrar, Mr Ahmad Rasidi Abdullah and Bursar, Mr Mohtar Hasim.
