Wawasan Open University (WOU) has been recognised for its role in advancing digital learning in the open education landscape with the Malaysian Digital Learning Excellence and LeadershipAward at the 9th Malaysian Education and Learning Summit on 16 April 2026 in Kuala Lumpur.

WOU’s Chief Executive and Vice-Chancellor, Prof Dr Lily Chan, accepted the award on behalf of the University from Tun Dato’ Seri Zaki Tun Azmi, Chancellor of Multimedia University and MAHSA University.

The summit, organised by KSI Strategic Institute for Asia Pacific in collaboration with Malaysian Association of Private Colleges and Universities and National Association of Private Educational Institutions, brought together stakeholders from education, technology, and industry to address the alignment of talent development with Malaysia’s AI- and digital-driven economy.

Tun Dato’ Seri Zaki Tun Azmi presenting the award to Prof Chan. Photo courtesy of KSI

Commenting on the recognition, Prof Chan said:

“This reflects the progress we have made in building a digitally enabled learning model for working adults at scale, and reinforces WOU’s position in digital open and distance learning. As continuous upskilling becomes the norm, WOU is positioned to support a shift towards lifelong, skills-driven learning aligned with the needs of a digital economy.”

At the summit, Prof Chan also participated in a leadership dialogue on “Integrating Universities, TVET, and Industry into a Single Talent Market – Delivering Blueprint Outcomes Through Market Coordination”, where she discussed the evolving role of universities, graduate readiness, as well as targeted workforce planning leveraging AI and data analytics. 

Prof Chan discussing the roles of universities in lifelong talent ecosystems. Photo courtesy of KSI

Prof Chan highlighted how universities can act as central connectors linking learners, TVET providers, and industry players through digital platforms and labour market insights to support a more integrated national talent framework.

“Universities must become “talent platforms” where workers return throughout their careers for continuous talent development. This means designing programmes that allows individuals to enter and exit learning at different stages of their careers, while maintaining relevance to industry needs,” she emphasised.

The dialogue session was moderated by Leong Wai Yie, Senior Professor at INTI International University (third from left), with the participation of other panellists including Dato’ Satinah Syed Saleh of University of Cyberjaya / Melewar Learning Resources (second from left), Mr Hamidi Halim of Abroad EduWorld Sdn Bhd (third from right), Prof Dr Ramlee Mustapha of Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (second from right), and Dr Kalai Vani Maniam of Malaysia Semiconductor Industry Association (rightmost).

WOU’s recognition and participation at the summit reflect its ongoing commitment to supporting Malaysia’s workforce development agenda, particularly through flexible learning pathways, digital open learning, and closer industry collaboration.