Nestlé Malaysia Partners with UiTM, APU & MUST to raise young graduates' digital skills and employability

 

As part of its ongoing commitment to youth empowerment and talent development, Nestlé Malaysia has formalised a strategic collaboration with Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), the Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU), and the Malaysia University of Science and Technology (MUST). The partnership will offer students structured internship opportunities within Nestle Malaysia’s Manufacturing and Supply Chain areas, enhancing their digital skills and on-the-job experience that will equip them to thrive in an increasingly digital and dynamic workforce.

This initiative is part of the global “Nestle Needs Youth” program and also supports national talent development priorities outlined in the Twelfth Malaysia Plan, TVET Enhancement initiatives, the Graduate Employability Strategy 2021–2025 and the Madani Economy Framework. With a strong emphasis on digital transformation and innovation, the partnership aims to shape future-ready graduates who can contribute meaningfully to Malaysia’s growth. This new initiative complements a number of other existing “Nestle Needs Youth” initiatives in Malaysia that in the form of direct hirings, internships or entrepreneurship programs supporting thousands of young Malaysians every year.

Juan Aranols, Chief Executive Officer of Nestlé Malaysia, said, “As Malaysia moves toward becoming a more digitally advanced and inclusive economy, we must ensure that our young talent is equipped with both the technical capabilities and digital skills needed to thrive. As part of our “Nestlé Needs Youth” ongoing programs, we are pleased to join hands with these leading Malaysian Academic institutions to empower new or soon to be graduates with the right tools, experience and mindset to thrive professionally.”

YBrs. Dr. Mohamad Norjayadi Tamam, Deputy Director General, Malaysia Productivity Corporation (MPC), said, “This collaboration between Nestlé and our academic institutions is a strong example of how we can bridge the gap between education and industry. By providing students with this valuable experience and exposure, we can build a future-ready workforce. At MPC, we believe productivity begins with people, and partnerships like this play a vital role in nurturing talent, accelerating learning and supporting Malaysia’s long-term economic competitiveness.”

Students will benefit from opportunities for structured internship placements across Nestlé’s business functions, including supply chain, engineering, sustainability, digitalisation and quality assurance. These placements will provide real-world exposure, equipping students with practical experience and a deeper understanding of industry expectations. An initial batch of 10 students has been identified, with up to 100 students set to participate in the first phase of the program over the next 6 months.

The programme introduces students to advanced digital tools and technologies, as well as the integration of sustainability within operational processes. This is aimed at cultivating critical thinking, problem-solving capabilities and digital proficiency, essential traits for success in the modern workforce.

Students will be further supported through a comprehensive talent development journey that includes mentorship from Nestlé professionals, guest lectures by industry leaders and career readiness pathways. A feedback and performance review system will provide regular guidance, while allowing Nestlé to identify top-performing candidates for potential pre-employment opportunities.

As Nestlé Malaysia continues to expand its Nestlé Needs Youth efforts, this collaboration reinforces the Company’s role as an active enabler of purposeful career opportunities. By aligning with national aspirations and working closely with leading local academic institutions, Nestlé aims to help nurture a highly capable Malaysian workforce equipped with the values and vision to build a better future.

The signing ceremony was graced by YBrs. Dr. Mohamad Norjayadi Tamam, Deputy Director General, Malaysia Productivity Corporation (MPC); Prof. Ts. Shafinar binti Ismail, Dean of UiTM; Professor Dr. Ho Chin Kuan, Vice Chancellor of APU; and Mr. Thiagarajan Marappan, Senior Lecturer at MUST. Also in attendance were other university representatives and members of the Nestlé Malaysia leadership team.