Malaysia – Universiti Teknologi Petronas and CMI
Summary
Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (UTP), a leading Malaysian engineering and technology institution and the highest ranked private university in Malaysia, has launched a landmark strategic partnership with CMI. The collaboration offers UTP students with dual accredited degrees, meaning they graduate with both a UTP academic qualifi cation and a CMI professional certifi cation that enhances employability and credibility. What makes this unique new model so innovative is that UTP is investing in their graduates’ futures by providing CMI membership and resources for three years after they graduate, setting a new benchmark for graduate support.
UTP has demonstrated its profound commitment to its graduates’ professional growth by strategically investing in their future. The CMI membership provided to alumni for three years post-graduation, equips them to remain competitive in an ever-evolving global job market.
This robust support system ensures the learning journey extends far beyond their academic years. Graduates gain invaluable access to CMI’s extensive management resources, professional development tools, and networking opportunities, including mentoring programmes and events.
This forward-thinking approach fosters the habit of lifelong learning required by the fast-paced workplace of today, and helps cultivate a pipeline of highly qualifi ed managers and leaders in Malaysia.
As members of CMI, the alumni are also on a pathway to achieving the esteemed Chartered Manager (CMgr) status, the internationally-recognised, highest accolade for professional managers and leaders.
The partnership is designed to bridge the gap between classroom theory and professional practice. While studying, UTP students gain dual recognition: their UTP academic qualifi cation paired with a CMI professional certifi cation, enhancing their employability from day one.
“This collaboration aligns with our mission to produce graduates who are not only knowledgeable but also credible, confi dent, and capable of leading in the global arena,” says UTP President Ir. Mohamed Firouz Asnan.
Ann Francke OBE, CEO of CMI, agrees. “Together, we’re helping students develop not only the technical expertise that they need to deliver, but also the management and leadership skills employers value most, empowering graduates and setting them up for success.“
Impact and Achievements
CMI has undertaken research in Malaysia to demonstrate the impact of Chartered Manager status:
- 93% of Malaysian Chartered Managers say the award is a valuable addition to their CV when looking for new jobs.
- 9 in 10 Malaysian HE partners say being on a pathway to gaining Chartered Manager status will boost students’ employability into professional roles.
- 7 in 10 Malaysian students agree that being on a pathway to gaining Chartered Manager status will boost their career prospects.
Chartered Manager status denotes a manager and leader committed to the highest professional standards, ethical practice, and a lifetime of learning and CPD.
A Vision for Future Leaders
For UTP, this partnership is a core part of its identity and mission to nurture globally competent leaders. Experienced managers at UTP are also able to pursue the Chartered Manager status, the pinnacle of achievement in management and leadership.
“Professional recognition is an essential part of UTP’s DNA,” Mohamed Firouz adds. “We want our graduates to leave not just with degrees, but with the skills, mindset, and professional confidence to lead change in any environment.”
Ann Francke notes this reflects the university’s deep-seated ambition for its learners. “It is a sign of UTP’s ambition for its learners to emerge from their studies with the confidence they need to be Malaysia’s dynamic future leaders.”
Next Steps
Beyond certifi cation, training and the opportunity to embed Chartered Manager status directly into UTP’s postgraduate courses, UTP and CMI are exploring joint research, leadership seminars, and executive education programmes to foster deeper global knowledge exchange among academics, professionals, and students. A joint event on Artifi cial Intelligence & Leadership is planned for 2026.
Read more about CMI’s international work here:
