SIBU: University of Technology Sarawak (UTS) marked a significant milestone as the institution embarks on a journey to equip the next generation of professionals with the necessary knowledge and skills to champion safety and health in the workplace.
UTS board of directors chairman Datuk Dr Annuar Rapaee said the university’s new Bachelor of Science in Occupational Safety and Health (Honours) programme exemplifies its commitment to offer relevant, competitive and industry-driven academic programmes.
“We have always been committed to equipping our graduates with discipline-specific knowledge, skills and values that match their jobs’ needs, satisfy the employers’ demands and contribute to the overall achievement of institutional goals.
“I am confident that the BSc in Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) programme will serve as a cornerstone for our students’ career success, fostering a generation of professional who prioritises the health, well-being and safety of all individuals in the workplace.
“With the dedication of our esteemed faculty and the collaboration of industry leaders, we are poised to make a lasting impact on the occupational safety and health landscape, especially in Sarawak,” he said at the launching of the new academic programme, Bachelor of Science in OSH (Honours) at the UTS’s premises here on Wednesday.
Dr Annuar said the state is embarking on a number of construction projects which requires more officers competent in OSH.
“There are a lot of safety aspects that should be emphasised in the high risk industries especially oil and gas. As we know, we are one of the major producers of oil and gas in Malaysia as well as into many plantation industries that warrants a lot of competent OSH officers.
“The OSH programme was gaining significant importance in Malaysia due to the growing awareness of OSH practices in various industries.
“The programme’s value lies in addressing the increasing need for qualified OSH practitioners responsible to ensure compliance with safety and health regulations and fostering a safe and health work environment,” he said.
Furthermore, he pointed out that the programme’s emphasis on risk management, accident prevention, and safety and health standards aligns with Malaysia’s efforts to enhance workplace safety and minimise occupational hazards across diverse sectors, including manufacturing, construction, healthcare and oil and gas industries.
UTS’s Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic), Prof Dr. Mohammad Shahril Osman was among those present at the launch event.
