PETALING JAYA: TP-Link Distribution Malaysia Sdn Bhd is extending its talent development strategy through collaboration with Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia (USIM), reinforcing a growing push to build a structured pipeline of enterprise networking professionals across Malaysia.
Rather than standalone academic partnerships, the collaboration reflects a more deliberate effort to connect universities into a broader ecosystem where students are trained, certified and channelled into industry with relevant in-demand skills.
A memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed to formalises a three-year collaboration focused on integrating enterprise networking capabilities directly into USIM’s academic environment. Through this, TP-Link Malaysia will deploy its Omada enterprise networking solutions within campus labs, enabling students to work on infrastructure that mirrors real-world enterprise systems.
The programme is designed to move beyond theoretical exposure, combining hands-on technical training, structured workshops and access to the Omada Certified Network Administrator (OCNA) certification pathway. This ensures students graduate not just with knowledge, but with validated, industry-recognised competencies.
A key component of the collaboration is the direct link to industry. Students will be offered industrial training and internship placements with TP-Link, providing practical exposure and a clearer pathway into employment within Malaysia’s digital economy.
TP-Link Malaysia regional director Hugo Cai said “Enterprises today require talent that can operate, not just understand, digital infrastructure. By building a structured pipeline that connects training, certification and industry exposure, we are creating a more direct path from university to the workforce. The focus is no longer just on education, but on how effectively talent can transition into industry.”
USIM deputy vice-chancellor (research and innovation) Professor Dr Mohd Ikmar Nizam Mohamad Isa said, “This partnership allows us to go beyond academic delivery by embedding practical industry elements into the learning experience, ensuring our students are better equipped to meet evolving expectations in the digital economy. The collaboration strengthens the university’s approach to preparing students for real-world demands.”
The collaboration with USIM builds on TP-Link Malaysia’s earlier engagements with Universiti Malaya and Universiti Teknologi Mara, forming a growing network of institutions aligned to a common goal of developing enterprise networking talent. In 2025, about 500 students participated in the OCNA certification pathway, reflecting strong uptake and increasing relevance of industry-aligned programmes.
Beyond talent development, both organisations will explore collaboration in research, faculty engagement and knowledge exchange, strengthening the link between academic institutions and industry practice.
