Strengthening Security Risk Management Through Industry-Academia Collaboration: ASIS International Malaysia Chapter and Innovative University College Formalize Strategic Partnership

ASIS International Malaysia
Jul 25
3 min read

On 23 July 2026, ASIS International Malaysia Chapter and Innovative University College (IUC) marked a significant milestone in their shared commitment to developing the next generation of security professionals through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).

Held in Innovative University College campus, the program brought together academia, industry leaders, security practitioners, and students for a morning of knowledge sharing, collaboration, and professional engagement.

The event was graced by the presence of several distinguished guests, including:

Assoc. Prof. Hairul Hisam bin Bujang, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic – Undergraduate), Innovative University College
Ms. Nur Fatima Aisya binti Jamil, Dean, Faculty of Law Enforcement, Innovative University College

Their leadership and commitment have played an important role in strengthening collaboration between IUC and the professional security community.

In his opening speech, Chris Chan, Chairman of ASIS International Malaysia Chapter, welcomed participants and emphasized the rapidly evolving role of the security profession.

In his address, he highlighted that today's security professionals are no longer focused solely on protecting physical assets. Chris encouraged students to view security as a dynamic and rewarding profession, with career opportunities spanning investigations, risk management, cybersecurity, executive protection, crisis management, business continuity, supply chain security, intelligence, and more.

The event also featured valuable contributions from respected industry professionals who shared their practical insights and experiences with students:

Mr. Panniruky Perumal, Vice Chairman and Next Generation Chair, ASIS International Malaysia Chapter
Mr. Lee Wei Jin, Regional Director, Asia Pacific, HID Global
Mr. Bryan Ong, Business Development, Asia Pacific, HID Global
Mr. Ramesh Mariappan, Country Security Manager, IBM Malaysia

Through their participation, students gained firsthand exposure to current industry trends, emerging technologies, and the practical realities of managing security risks across multinational organizations.

Connecting Classroom Learning to Real-World Security

A key highlight of the programme was the student booth exhibition and presentation, where students showcased their analytical and problem-solving skills by presenting risk assessment projects to a panel of industry experts. The competition provided participants with a valuable opportunity to apply classroom knowledge to real-world security challenges while receiving feedback from experienced security practitioners. Through their presentations, students demonstrated their understanding of risk identification, assessment procedures, and mitigation strategies, reinforcing the importance of practical skills in preparing the next generation of security professionals.

Before the program of the day ended, ASIS Malaysia and Innovative University College had an industry forum titled "Strengthening Security Risk Management Through Professional Practice."

Moderated by Ms. Nur Fatima Aisya binti Jamil, the session provided students with valuable perspectives on the competencies, leadership qualities, and evolving skillsets required for successful careers in the security profession.

The discussions reinforced an important message throughout the event—that effective security management cannot exist in isolation. Strong partnerships between educational institutions and industry practitioners are essential for preparing graduates who are ready to meet the increasingly complex security challenges facing organizations today.

Formalizing the Partnership

The programme culminated with the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding between Innovative University College and ASIS International Malaysia Chapter.

Representing the two organizations were:

Assoc. Prof. Hairul Hisam bin Bujang, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic – Undergraduate), Innovative University College
Chris Chan, Chairman, ASIS International Malaysia Chapter

The ceremony was witnessed by faculty members, industry representatives, students, and invited guests, symbolizing a shared commitment to nurturing future security professionals through long-term collaboration.

Looking Ahead

The collaboration between ASIS International Malaysia Chapter and Innovative University College represents more than a formal agreement—it reflects a shared investment in the future of the security profession.

By combining academic excellence with practical industry experience, both organizations aim to create meaningful opportunities for students to develop the knowledge, skills, and professional networks needed to succeed in an increasingly complex security landscape.

ASIS International Malaysia Chapter extends its sincere appreciation to Innovative University College, the Faculty of Law Enforcement, all distinguished guests, industry speakers, organizing committee members, and students for making the programme a success.

A special recognition to Mr. Panniruky Perumal, whose dedication and leadership were instrumental in bringing this partnership to fruition. His continued efforts in engaging universities and supporting student development have helped strengthen ASIS Malaysia's mission of investing in the next generation of security leaders.

Together, we look forward to building a stronger pipeline of future security professionals and continuing to strengthen security risk management through meaningful industry-academia collaboration. View more photos of the event in the gallery below!