USM Champions Global Student Engagement in Research and Innovation at ICPM 2025
Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) highlighted its dedication to global student engagement and academic collaboration at the Malaysia International Conference of Project Management (ICPM) 2025, which took place on May 16-17, 2025. The hybrid conference was co-hosted by the Association of International Business and Professional Management (AIBPM) in Indonesia, in partnership with INTI International College Penang. The first day featured virtual presentations, while the second day included an in-person gathering at INTI.
Conference Theme
The conference centered on the theme “AI-Driven Project Management: Innovation, Challenges, and the Future of Work in Public Policy.” This theme provided a platform for researchers, industry professionals, academics, and students to exchange insights regarding the implications of artificial intelligence on project management and public policy in a digital context.
Memoranda of Understanding
A key moment during the conference was the signing of Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) between Hengxing University of China and various educational institutions, including USM and INTI International College Penang. The signing involved prominent figures such as Zhao Jing Jing, Vice President of Hengxing University; Associate Professor Dr. Daisy Kee Mui Hung from USM’s School of Management; Hemalatha Murugiah, Chief Executive of INTI; and Liem Gai Sin, President of AIBPM. USM also formalized its research and academic collaboration with AIBPM through a separate MoU.
Acknowledgments and Awards
USM’s strong presence in research and student engagement was further acknowledged at the conference. Dr. Gan Kia Hui, along with Associate Professor Dr. Daisy Kee Mui Hung and Tan Jie Hong, received the Best Paper Award. Postgraduate students Chen Pengyu and Wong Foong Meng earned the Best Presenter Awards, and Dr. Eddie Hu served as a keynote speaker. Event moderation was conducted by Mr. Sandeep, a new PhD student. Additionally, 153 undergraduate students from USM participated in the Nusantara Project, broadening their global engagement experiences.
Inauguration and Endorsement
The conference was inaugurated by YB Wong Hon Wai, the Penang State Executive Councillor for Tourism and Creative Economy, who endorsed the initiative for its role in enhancing international academic exchange and preparing participants for the increasing complexities of AI-driven project management.
Commitment to Innovation and Collaboration
Through its active participation in global academic discussions, USM continues to demonstrate its commitment to innovative research, international collaboration, and the empowerment of students amidst the evolving demands of project management shaped by artificial intelligence.
(Source: Universiti Sains Malaysia)
