CDL Academy Sdn. Bhd. (CDL Academy), the learning and development arm of the YTL Cement Group, has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) on 9 January 2026 to enhance collaboration in talent development, applied learning, and sustainable construction practices within Malaysia’s engineering sector.
The MoU was signed by UTM Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dr. Mohd Shafry Mohd Rahim and CDL Academy Chairman Dato’ Sr. Mohd Zaid Zakaria, formalizing an existing partnership between the two organizations. The agreement aims to strengthen industry–academia collaboration by providing students with greater exposure to real-world industry environments and hands-on experience, equipping them for future careers in the construction industry.
Through this collaboration, UTM and CDL Academy will jointly undertake initiatives such as professional training programmes, student internships, academic exchanges, workshops, seminars, and innovation-driven projects. These efforts will focus on areas including green building materials, advanced construction technologies, and cost management solutions, supporting the evolving needs of the construction and engineering sectors.
As Malaysia’s leading university in engineering, science, and technology, UTM remains committed to forging strategic partnerships that enhance research outcomes and provide students with meaningful, real-world learning opportunities. The collaboration with CDL Academy reflects UTM’s ongoing efforts to ensure graduates are equipped with relevant skills and industry experience to contribute effectively to national development.
Since its establishment in 2019, CDL Academy has organized more than 100 seminars and learning engagements, benefiting over 10,000 participants across the construction and engineering ecosystem. This partnership with UTM further expands CDL Academy’s initiatives, supporting the development of industry-ready graduates while addressing emerging demands in sustainable construction and advanced building technologies.
The MoU will remain valid for three years, with the option for renewal. Coordinators from both organizations will oversee the implementation of programmes to ensure measurable outcomes for students, researchers, and the broader construction industry.
About CDL Academy Sdn. Bhd.
CDL Academy Sdn. Bhd. is the professional learning and development platform of the YTL Cement Group, established to support training and talent development in the construction industry. The Academy focuses on cultivating skilled, industry-ready professionals through structured training and practical knowledge-sharing.
Beyond technical training, CDL Academy serves as a hub for knowledge exchange, innovation, and collaboration, bringing together industry practitioners, academics, universities, associations, and governing bodies through seminars, workshops, training programmes, and strategic partnerships. Through its commitment to quality education and best-practice sharing, CDL Academy aims to strengthen talent pipelines, promote university–industry collaboration, and support the long-term sustainability of the construction ecosystem.
About Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM)
Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) is a premier public research university specializing in engineering, science, and technology. With campuses in Johor Bahru and Kuala Lumpur, UTM is dedicated to producing globally competitive graduates and advancing cutting-edge research that addresses both national and global challenges.
