Dr. Firdaus Sahran officially appointed as the 2026 AKEPT AI Ambassador (Duta AI AKEPT) for Universiti Malaya at Politeknik Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is set to become the new core focus for the nation's Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) leadership, aligning with the Ministry of Higher Education's (KPT) ongoing efforts to restructure polytechnics and community colleges (POLYCC) nationwide.
A National Push to Restructure POLYCC
Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr. Zambry Abdul Kadir emphasised that this restructuring is crucial to ensure these institutions are equipped to meet the evolving demands of modern industries, particularly in high-tech and AI-driven sectors. The initiative aims to elevate POLYCC beyond traditional certificate and diploma offerings, empowering them to potentially provide advanced degree programs in technological fields.
Kembara KARISMA Pemimpin Muda MADANI 2026
These strategic directions were highlighted during the recent Kembara KARISMA Pemimpin Muda MADANI 2026 program, organised by the Higher Education Leadership Academy (AKEPT) at Politeknik Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah. The program served as a strategic platform to strengthen the leadership competencies and strategic thinking of young educators and administrators across Malaysia's Higher Education Institutions (HEIs).
Dr. Firdaus Sahran Appointed UM's AKEPT AI Ambassador
In tandem with the national push for technological advancement, the event also marked the official appointment of the 2026 AKEPT AI Ambassadors (Duta AI AKEPT). Representing Universiti Malaya (UM) is Dr. Muhammad Nur Firdaus Bin Sahran, whose recognition was celebrated during the program.
Dr. Firdaus is a researcher from the Centre of Research for Cyber Security & Network (CSNET), Universiti Malaya, with specialised expertise in Computer Networks, Cyber Security, and Artificial Intelligence. In his new role as the AKEPT AI Ambassador for UM, he will play a pivotal role in spearheading AI integration, promoting digital literacy, and fostering human–AI synergy within the university's academic framework.
Aligning UM with a National AI Agenda
His appointment reflects the broader national agenda to embed advanced AI capabilities into the core of Malaysia's higher education system, ensuring that future leaders and graduates remain resilient and highly competitive in the global digital economy. The recognition also underscores CSNET's growing influence beyond cybersecurity research, into the policy and capability-building work that will shape how Malaysian universities deploy AI responsibly.