(Kajang, Malaysia) — In a ceremony marked by anticipation and celebration, Infrastructure University Kuala Lumpur (IUKL) officially unveiled its new identity as Kuala Lumpur University of Science and Technology (KLUST). This landmark rebranding signifies more than a name change—it represents a bold transformation into a technology-driven institution poised to seize global opportunities and lead higher education innovation across Malaysia and the ASEAN region.
In his inspiring opening address, Professor Ts. Dr David Ngo Chek Ling, President & Vice Chancellor of KLUST, proclaimed:
“Today, we are not simply renaming a university—we are lighting a beacon for the future. KLUST aims to become the heart of regional technological education. We will transform our curriculum, deepen industry-academia collaborations, and nurture a new generation of tech leaders—masters of AI, trailblazers in green technology, and global citizens ready to tackle the grand challenges of our time.”
Professor Chen Xiaoyun, Chairman of the Board of KLUST and of Star Teenagers International Group, elaborated on the vision behind this transformation:
“This is more than an upgrade—it is a rebirth. KLUST’s future will revolve around three strategic pillars: Digital Foundations, Intelligence-Driven, and AI Empowerment. In this era of expanding Belt and Road cooperation, KLUST is committed to becoming a vital bridge for Malaysia-China educational collaboration, fostering premier platforms for academic exchange and technological innovation.”
During the event, KLUST launched its “Development Blueprint for an Applied Research University in the Digital Intelligence Era”, featuring the Education 5.0 framework. Professor Chen explained:
“This blueprint is our solemn commitment to future-focused education. KLUST will prioritise smart technologies, green energy, and digital transformation, creating an innovation ecosystem that fuses industry, academia, research, and application. Our goal is to become ASEAN’s central hub for digital talent and technological excellence.”
The rebranding ceremony was officiated by a distinguished lineup of guests, including Professor Chen Xiaoyun; KLUST Advisor Yang Berhormat Tuan Tan Kok Wai; Mr Zheng Xuefang, Minister of the Chinese Embassy in Malaysia; Professor Ts. Dr David Ngo Chek Ling; Mr Liu Hailin, President of the Malaysia Anhui General Chamber of Commerce; Professor Tan Sri Datuk Dr Ghauth Jasmon, former President of the University of Malaya; Mr Chong Nam Rong, Vice President of Chery Automobile Malaysia; Yang Berbahagia Tan Sri Datuk Seri Panglima Dr Aseh bin Hj Che Mat; and Nur Fazliyana, representing the Embassy of Brunei.
Reflecting on the significance of this transformation, Professor Tan Sri Datuk Dr Ghauth Jasmon stated:
“Malaysia needs visionary leadership like Professor Chen Xiaoyun and dynamic institutions like KLUST. Your boldness and foresight are vital for building Malaysia into a tech-driven nation. KLUST’s techno-humanism philosophy—blending innovation with human values—sets a new benchmark for Southeast Asian education and reflects our national aspirations.”
Mr Chan Woon Foong, Vice President of the Malaysia-China Chamber of Commerce, added:
“We have great faith in Chairman Chen and KLUST. China’s technological ascent offers valuable lessons, and under Professor Chen’s leadership, KLUST will not only achieve academic excellence but also contribute to the social and economic upliftment of Malaysia.”
Mr Liu Hailin emphasized the bilateral importance:
“KLUST’s transformation marks a significant milestone in the internationalisation of Anhui’s vocational education. It stands as a flagship achievement in Malaysia-China educational cooperation.”
With Mr Zheng Xuefang, Minister of the Chinese Embassy in Malaysia and other dignitaries as witnesses, KLUST announced key appointments to its Board of Governors, marking a significant step in strengthening its leadership for the future. The inclusion of Professor Tan Sri Datuk Dr Ghauth Jasmon brings invaluable academic insight to support KLUST’s transformation into a research-driven institution. Professor Dr Premkumar Rajagopal adds strategic expertise that will guide innovation and academic excellence, while Mr Chong Nam Rong offers strong industry linkage to align the university’s direction with market needs. These appointments are expected to enhance KLUST’s governance and accelerate its ambition to become a leading hub of technological education in the region.
Yang Berhormat Tuan Tan Kok Wai, KLUST Advisor, also shared his optimism in an interview after the event:
“Anhui is one of China’s most dynamic tech hubs. After visiting Anhui Lvhai Vocational College, I am confident that under Professor Chen’s leadership, KLUST will become Malaysia’s scientific backbone, ASEAN’s innovation front-runner, and a top technological university in the region.”
With its bold new identity, KLUST reaffirms its commitment to academic excellence, global collaboration, and visionary leadership in science and technology. The event concluded with a press conference and networking luncheon, sparking new dialogues on partnerships and future initiatives. From IUKL to KLUST, a new era begins—one defined by innovation, internationalism, and the unwavering pursuit of excellence.
