Digitising the Nation by Bridging Academic and Industry Forces at IAC 2021

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Kuala Lumpur, 20 October 2021- As part of the effort to close the gap between industry and academia, the International University of Malaya-Wales (IUMW) is organising the all-in-one International Academic Conference 2021 (IAC 2021), a 3-day event from 26-28 October 2021, to be conducted online over Airmeet.

The event theme, ‘Digitalisation in Transformation: Bridging Academia & Industry’ will consider the critical strides Malaysia needs to transform the nation into a global digital economic contributor, and how industry-academia collaboration is a key contributing factor in driving the new era.

Dr Nisa Omar, Chairperson of IAC 2021 and Academic Dean at IUMW said, “The momentum behind digital technology that’s driving change in industries globally is unstoppable. Digitalising the nation and society call for close collaboration between many sectors, not least, academia and industry.”

To support this mission, industry leaders from companies including PwC, Maybank, MDEC, Microsoft and Google will join academic experts from institutions including IUMW, Heriot-Watt University, the University of Wales Trinity Saint David and the Asia School of Business for in-depth panel discussions set around the conference theme.

A Community striving towards a digital economy beyond the 3-Day event

“IAC 2021 is here to move the conversation forward, bringing together relevant stakeholders from both industry and academia to debate, and identify the possible repercussions and developments, and work closely together to manage the risks and identify what lies ahead in the unpredictable world. With it being a completely free event, we hope to offer real value to attendees of all ages and backgrounds, from a wide variety of sectors.” Dr Nisa adds.

“Audiences are encouraged to interact, share and be part of the conversation. The event is designed to be a catalyst to forge new networks, partnerships, collaborations and connections that can thrive far beyond the three-day event.”

Day 1 begins with 25 speakers over 5 panels covering the Global Impact of Disruptive Technology; Supply Chain 4.0: Agility, Efficiency & Growth; Digitalisation in Media & Entertainment; Bridging Academia & Industry: Reinventing the Current Landscape and Transforming Lives With Technology.

In addition to the panel discussions on 26 October 2021, research presentations on 27 October and a workshop series on 28 October, participants get the chance to grow their professional circles at the speed networking sessions and head-hunt top student talent pools at the event’s project showcase.

Contributing to the next chapter in Malaysia’s digital journey

IUMW Vice-Chancellor Tay Kay Luan said, “Disruptive technologies are innovations that have altered the way we do things at work, or at home. As consumers, the experience can be anything from convenience to comfort. By the same token, business today enjoys better access and greater alternatives in their choice of delivery. The IAC 2021 has this in mind by bringing together diverse experiences to share and debate the perspectives on digital impacts and their implications on the present and the future. Change is inevitable, the challenge is the readiness, and how businesses and society adapt and harmonise to their greater good.”

The event aims to empower individuals and businesses in embracing digital processes to stay competitive. Their long-standing success may well be defined by their ability to adapt, and how well they apply the use of technology in their business strategies. Successful digital adoption can transform businesses, careers, and livelihoods, for the better.

Event tickets are free for the full 3-day event. Tickets can be secured at https://www.airmeet.com/e/760e0800-104d-11ec-9fa7-034312eff89c and more information can be found at https://www.iumw.edu.my/iac2021-overview/