Partnering to Shape Sarawak's Future Business Leaders
The University of Melbourne and MASA Institute of Management partner to strengthen Sarawak’s next generation of business leaders.
New collaboration with leadership think tank will see 30 to 50 Sarawak Government employees enrol in the University’s online Master of Business each year over the next three years.
The University of Melbourne continues to strengthen its position as a leading institution in the Asia-Pacific region with the announcement of a new international partnership with MASA Institute of Management. The collaboration is designed to build leadership capability and support the development of future business leaders in Sarawak.
Speaking at the collaboration agreement signing ceremony in Sarawak, the Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, expressed confidence that the University’s global standing in professional development will create new opportunities for Sarawakians and represent an important investment in the State’s future.
“It is educated, skilled, and innovative people who will drive sustainable growth. This program will develop leaders capable of navigating complex economic challenges, managing organisations effectively, and driving innovation across both the public and private sectors,” he said.
Abang Johari was joined at the signing ceremony by a delegation from the University that included Professor Peter Gahan, Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Business and Economics.
Professor Gahan welcomed the formalisation of the partnership: “I couldn’t be more pleased. This officially marks the beginning of our collaboration, one grounded in a shared commitment to leadership development, capacity building, and the strengthening of international partnerships.”
Sarawak Government employees will benefit from an inclusive program designed for learners from diverse professional backgrounds. The course equips participants with the core capabilities needed to become high-performing and adaptive managers, while also building a strong foundation in essential business skills.
"This collaboration creates new opportunities for Sarawakians to access internationally recognised education closer to home and represents an important investment in the future of Sarawak and its next generation of business leaders," said Debbie Reynolds, Director of Business Development at Melbourne Professional Education, at The University of Melbourne.
In particular, the course not only covers essential focus areas such as adaptive leadership, talent management, and stakeholder engagement, but also deepens learners’ capabilities in accounting, finance, decision-making, and analytics.
Previous Program Director Dr Jesse Olsen believes the Master of Business reflects the changing dynamics of business leadership and management.
“Modern professionals across sectors face a growing range of new responsibilities, such as managing diverse and complex stakeholder relationships, leveraging artificial intelligence in the workplace, and achieving sustainability in their businesses. This program equips learners with the capabilities to meet these demands, empowering them to become strategic managers and adaptable leaders, now and into the future.”
Find out how the Master of Business at the University of Melbourne can help advance your career.