UCYP University and IIUM: Strengthening Collaboration via Pahang Food Security Project (PAFOS)

On December 9, 2024, UCYP University and the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) took a significant step toward fostering academic and community development by signing a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA). The ceremony, held at the UCYP University Auditorium in Kuantan, marked the beginning of a strategic partnership aimed at addressing key challenges in education and society.

The event was attended by several distinguished guests, including YB Dato’ Ir. Razali bin Kassim, the EXCO of Public Works, Transportation, and Health of Pahang, and Yang Berbahagia Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Professor Dr. Noorul Ainur Mohd Nur, Chairman of the UCYP University Board of Governors. Other notable attendees included Professor Emeritus Datuk Dr. Osman Bakar, Rector of IIUM; Professor Dato’ Dr. Muhammad Fauzi bin Mohd Zain, Vice Chancellor of UCYP University; and Professor Dr. Ahmad Hafiz bin Zulkifly, Director of IIUM’s Kuantan Campus. YB Dato’ Ir. Razali bin Kassim witnessed the signing of the MoU, underscoring the importance of collaboration in advancing higher education and community well-being.

This MoU is designed to strengthen ties between UCYP University and IIUM through collaborative academic programs, innovative research initiatives, and impactful community projects. Among the key initiatives resulting from this partnership is the Pahang Food Security Project (PAFOS), an endeavor aimed at addressing food insecurity among low-income students. PAFOS also seeks to support small-scale entrepreneurs, particularly food vendors operating around the universities. By addressing these issues, the project aspires to create a sustainable ecosystem that benefits both students and the surrounding community.

Central to PAFOS is the development of an innovative e-coupon system. This system will enable more efficient monitoring of students’ nutritional status, serving as a model for addressing food security in higher education institutions. Additionally, the project includes financial support for small entrepreneurs, with initial funding provided to ensure their success and sustainability.

Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Professor Dr. Noorul Ainur Mohd Nur emphasized the significance of PAFOS in tackling food insecurity and creating economic opportunities for small entrepreneurs. She highlighted the RM107,900 in funding provided by the Pahang State Government, which will be utilized to implement the i-Secure application—a tool designed for systematic management of food aid. Through this initiative, 160 food-insecure students will benefit from e-coupons worth RM48,000, while small entrepreneurs will receive initial grants totaling RM5,000. Dr. Noorul Ainur described PAFOS as an inclusive and sustainable approach to addressing socio-economic challenges, aligning with state and national development agendas.

YB Dato’ Ir. Razali bin Kassim also lauded the efforts of both institutions, recognizing their strategic roles in enhancing social and economic development in Pahang. He praised the innovative governance approach of PAFOS, which not only improves students’ academic performance and well-being but also serves as a model for future governance initiatives. He called for continued support from all stakeholders to ensure the project’s sustainability and long-term impact.

The partnership between UCYP University and IIUM represents a milestone in the integration of academic excellence and community engagement. By addressing critical issues such as food security and entrepreneurial support, this collaboration aims to make a lasting impact on both the academic landscape and the broader community. The MoU serves as a proof to the shared vision and commitment of these institutions to drive positive change and contribute meaningfully to societal progress.

MoA signing ceremony between UCYP University & IIUM, witnessed by YB Dato’ Ir. Razali bin Kassim,

EXCO of Public Works, Transportation, and Health of Pahang, alongside honored guests

Highlights from the MoA signing between UCYP University & IIUM