AKADEMI REL PAHANG (ARP): A NEW MILESTONE FOR MALAYSIA’S RAIL INDUSTRY EDUCATION

A historic milestone was achieved for the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) sector in Pahang as Akademi Rel Pahang (ARP) was officially launched on April 11, 2025. The event, held at the Yayasan Pahang Complex, was officiated by the Deputy Prime Minister, YAB. Dato’ Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid bin Hamidi, and also present was the Pahang Chief Minister, YAB. Dato’ Sri Diraja Haji Wan Rosdy bin Wan Ismail. The ceremony brought together various key figures from government agencies and industry partners, whose support reflects the strong collaborative spirit behind this initiative.

The launch marks a major step forward for UCYP University, which is playing a key role in supporting the state’s TVET agenda and strengthening the country’s skilled workforce in the railway industry. With the strong support of the State Government of Pahang and Yayasan Pahang, the ARP is set to become a driving force in developing local talents and positioning Malaysia as a key player in regional rail logistics.

At the outset, YAB. Dato’ Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid bin Hamidi described the launch of ARP as timely and aligned with Malaysia’s ambition to be at the forefront of railway education and workforce development. According to him, the academy will not only meet the growing local demand but also allow Malaysia to export its skilled rail talents to neighboring countries. He views ARP as not just a physical academy; it is a strategic initiative designed to support national projects such as the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL). By producing skilled local professionals in the railway field, ARP will help reduce dependency on foreign expertise while opening doors to global career opportunities for Malaysians.

Meanwhile, YAB. Dato’ Sri Diraja Haji Wan Rosdy bin Wan Ismail reaffirmed the state’s strong commitment to ensuring that ARP graduates will be highly employable. He shared that the Pahang State Government has allocated RM5 million under the 2025 State Budget to support ARP’s growth. He added that this investment is not only a contribution toward education but also a preparation for upcoming infrastructure projects like the ECRL, which will require a skilled and ready workforce.

As part of its first phase, 10 selected students will undergo a one year training program at Liuzhou Railway Vocational Technical College (LRVTC) in China. This full scholarship program is funded by Malaysia Rail Link Sdn. Bhd. (MRL) through the PLKI-ECRL scheme and supported by Yayasan Pahang. This initiative is expected to set the foundation for many future collaborations and exchanges that will benefit both students and the industry.

During the ceremony, a memorandum of understanding (MoU) was exchanged between UCYP University, Malaysia Rail Development Corporation (MRDC), China Communications Construction (ECRL) Sdn. Bhd. (CCC), and Liuzhou Railway Vocational and Technical College (LRCTV) China. These partnerships will provide more structured training and ensure that students are equipped with world-class skills and international exposure.

In conclusion, with the launch of Akademi Rel Pahang, the journey toward building a highly skilled rail workforce in Malaysia has officially begun, and UCYP University is proud to be at the forefront of this national transformation.

Pahang Chief Minister, YAB. Dato’ Sri Diraja Haji Wan Rosdy bin Wan Ismail, delivering his speech at the launch of Akademi Rel Pahang

Deputy Prime Minister, YAB. Dato’ Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid bin Hamidi, delivering his officiating speech at the launch of Akademi Rel Pahang

Crucial moments from the official launch of Akademi Rel Pahang

Offer Letter Presentation to the trainees of Akademi Rel Pahang and the Certificate of Participation to Head Instructor, Assistant Professor Ts. Dr. Mohd Hamisa bin Abdul Hamid, for the Rail Transport Certification Training Program