STRATEGIC COLLABORATION BETWEEN FPHT UNIMEL AND USAHANITA IN STRENGTHENING ACADEMIA-INDUSTRY LINKAGES

The collaboration between the Faculty of Management, Hospitality and Tourism (FPHT), Universiti Islam Melaka (UNIMEL), and USAHANITA represents a strategic initiative to strengthen the relationship between academia and industry, particularly in the areas of entrepreneurship and local entrepreneur development.

This collaboration involves the participation of local traders and food producers, providing a platform to expand business networks, share experiences, and facilitate knowledge transfer in entrepreneurship practices, business management, and the food industry. The organisation of such programmes creates opportunities for local entrepreneurs to engage with academia, share expertise, and explore collaborative opportunities that can enhance their business competitiveness.

Furthermore, students’ participation in these activities provides valuable opportunities to gain direct industry experience, understand the realities of entrepreneurship, and apply academic knowledge in real-world situations. Interaction with local food producers and traders also enhances students’ understanding of the challenges, opportunities, and best practices within the food business sector.

This initiative supports the indicator “Events for Local Farmers and Food Producers – Provide events for local farmers and food producers to connect and transfer knowledge” by establishing a platform that connects local food producers with academic institutions for knowledge sharing, experience exchange, and industry networking.

Overall, the collaboration between FPHT UNIMEL and USAHANITA not only strengthens academia-industry linkages but also contributes to the development of an inclusive, sustainable, and competitive local entrepreneurship ecosystem. This initiative further supports Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 2: Zero Hunger, particularly through strengthening networks with local food producers, supporting sustainable food systems, and promoting community economic development.