The German-Malaysian Institute (GMI) celebrates 2024 as a year of innovation, milestone and collaboration, elevating the institution to new heights. With notable academic, industry, and technological advancements, GMI position itself as a premier institution in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), setting the stage for a promising 2025.
Strengthening Academic Excellence at GMI
In 2024, GMI launched the German Language Centre on January 17, marking a key academic milestone. This expansion, officiated by YBhg. Prof Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Dr. Noor Azlan Ghazali, enhanced GMI’s educational offerings. GMI’s proposal for university college status was approved in October, making it Malaysia’s first TVET institution to register as GMI – University College of Applied Science. Additionally, GMI became the only TVET institution in Malaysia to integrate Tesla technology into its automotive technology curriculum, enriching students learning experiences.
Strategic Industry Partnerships
GMI strengthened its industry partnerships in 2024, ensuring that its curriculum aligns with current and future trends. On March 5, GMI hosted its first Industry Advisory Council (IAC) Summit, bringing together 135 leaders from German companies and 50 executives from multinational corporations in Malaysia. This summit reinforced GMI’s commitment to producing industry-ready graduates.
In May, GMI partnered with Tapio Management Advisory Sdn Bhd and RV Asia to develop a pioneering AR/VR project that integrates Augmented Reality (AR) and the Internet of Things (IoT) to transform traditional recreational vehicles (RV) into interactive digital experiences.
During the TVET@KKDW 2024 Educational Expo in September, GMI signed seven Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with leading industry players including Tapio Management Advisory Sdn Bhd, AsiaRV, Prima Merdu Sdn Bhd (Bermaz Auto), KeySight Technologies Malaysia, Gruppe Dynamics Sdn Bhd, RunCloud, and Bufori Motor Car Company (M) Sdn Bhd. These partnerships aim to enhance TVET education by advancing electrical vehicle training, cybersecurity, digital technologies, AR/VR, and workforce development through joint research, specialized courses and industry collaborations.
To enhance industry ties and advance TVET in Malaysia, GMI signed two MoUs with Melaka Corporation (MCorp) and a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with Volkswagen Malaysia during the opening of the Deutscher Brand Summit (DBS) at the Melaka International Trade Centre on 15 October 2024. GMI was also appointed as the sole training provider at the German Industrial Park in Malacca and secured internship opportunities for its students at Volkswagen Malaysia, offering an RM1,500 allowance.
Awards and Recognitions: Celebrating Excellence
2024 brought remarkable recognition for GMI’s commitment to skills excellence. During the Sukan Institusi Pengajian Tinggi (SUKIPT) 2024, GMI’s team clinched three silver medals in Taekwondo, Archery and the e-Sport (PUBG Mobile) category.
During the TVET@KKDW 2024 Educational Expo, GMI’s team secured 3rd place, bringing home six gold medals and three bronze medals. At the Prime Minister’s Golden Hand Award (MATEPM) and Skilled Personality Award (ATM) 2024, GMI earned notable achievements. Muhammad Hafiz bin Adnan, a Principal Technical Training Officer, won bronze medal in CNC Milling at the WorldSkills Malaysia Trainers competition. Abdul Muiz bin Affandi, a GMI student, claimed a gold medal in Prototype Modelling at the WorldSkills Malaysia Youth competition. His win earned him a RM 5,000 prize and a spot in Worldskills 2025 competition in China.
In the University Robot Competitions 2024 (UROCK24), GMI’s robotics team took 3rd place in the Rope Climbing Robot category, competing against talented teams from USM, UPM, UTEM, and others.
In December, GMI won the Young Innovator Award at the Virtual Innovation Competition Exhibition (VICE) 2024 for the Education Smart Home System Kit and a Gold Medal for the Robotic Lawn Mower,underscoringGMI’s focus on innovation, young talent, and sustainability.
Notable Visitors: Strengthening Global Connections
Throughout 2024, GMI hosted several distinguished visitors, further enhancing its global reputation. On January 19, GMI welcomed YBhg. Datuk Hajah Rubiah binti Haji Wang, Deputy Minister of KKDW.
In February, GMI hosted a delegation of 20 rectors from Universities of Applied Sciences in Germany, fostering international cooperation and creating opportunities for GMI students to further their studies in Germany.
A standout moment occurred during GMI’s 30th Convocation, when His Excellency Dr. Peter Blomeyer, Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany, delivered an inspiring address and performed a memorable piano piece—an unprecedented first for a GMI convocation. This symbolized the strong cultural and educational ties between Germany and GMI.
In December, GMI welcomed YBhg. Dato’ Sri Azhar bin Abdul Manaf, Director-General of MARA, and Ir. Dr. Mahzan bin Teh, Deputy Director-General (Education) of MARA, as part of their visit to discuss GMI’s role in shaping Malaysia’s TVET landscape. On December 5th, GMI hosted Mr. Abdul Wahab bin Mustaffa, Director of the Investment and Subsidiary Development Division of MARA, for a working visit and a Tesla car test drive. Later that month, YBhg. Datuk Wira Dr. Asyraf Wajdi bin Dato’ Dusuki, Chairman of MARA, visited GMI, marking another milestone in GMI’s vision for the future of TVET education in Malaysia.
Join Us on Our Journey of Excellence!
As GMI continues to grow and achieve new milestones, we invite you to join our exciting future. Whether you’re a prospective student aiming to advance your career with industrial-ready TVET education, an industry partner seeking innovative collaborations, or a supporter of academic excellence, there’s a place for you at GMI.
Stay tuned as GMI leads the way in shaping the future of technical education in Malaysia and beyond! The future is bright at GMI, and we can’t wait for you to be a part of it!
