YTL Cement’s CDL Academy and Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) have formalised their collaboration by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on 9 January 2026. This agreement aims to advance talent development and research innovation in sustainable construction within Malaysia’s engineering sector. The MoU, signed by UTM Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Mohd Shafry Mohd Rahim and CDL Academy Chairman Dato Sr Mohd Zaid Zakaria, seeks to provide students with industry exposure and practical experience.
The partnership will focus on initiatives such as professional training programmes, student internships, academic exchanges, and workshops. These efforts will concentrate on green building materials, advanced construction technologies, and cost management solutions. UTM, known for its commitment to engineering, science, and technology, aims to equip graduates with the skills necessary for the nation’s development.
Since its inception in 2019, CDL Academy has conducted over 100 seminars, benefiting more than 10,000 participants. The collaboration with UTM expands these efforts, supporting the development of industry-ready graduates and addressing emerging needs in sustainable construction. The MoU will be effective for three years, with opportunities for renewal, and will be overseen by coordinators from both parties to ensure measurable outcomes.
CDL Academy, part of the YTL Cement Group, focuses on developing well-trained professionals through structured training and practical knowledge-sharing. The academy serves as a hub for knowledge exchange, bringing together practitioners, academics, and industry leaders. This collaboration underscores the commitment to strengthening industry talent pipelines and supporting the long-term advancement of the construction ecosystem.
