CDL Academy and UTM Partner on Sustainable Construction Talent Development

  • focuses on internships, academic exchanges, and research into sustainable building materials
  • aims to address industry skill shortages in green building and advanced technologies

CDL Academy Sdn. Bhd., the learning and development arm of YTL Cement Group, and Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on talent development and research in the construction sector. The agreement, signed on January 9, 2026, formalizes a partnership aimed at addressing industry skill gaps and advancing sustainable construction practices.

The MoU focuses on initiatives such as professional training programs, student internships, academic exchanges, and innovation projects. Key areas of cooperation include green building materials, advanced construction technologies, and cost management solutions.

The partnership builds on a relationship established in 2022 through the “Masterclass Series,” which connected academic insights with industry practices. According to CDL Academy, the collaboration addresses a growing need in the construction sector for talent with “strong technical foundations, sustainability awareness, and practical problem-solving skills”.

Under the MoU, both organizations will work to prepare graduates who can adapt to new technologies and building methods. The collaboration intends to provide students with exposure to practical learning and real-world applications.

Regarding the specific curriculum and enrollment, CDL Academy stated they are currently working with UTM on the schedule for the first cohort. While the organization aims to offer recognized qualifications to enhance participants’ professional credentials, specific details on accreditation and program dates have yet to be finalized.


L-R: Aziyah Mohamed, Co-chairman of CDL Academy Sdn. Bhd., Sr. Mohd Zaid Zakaria, Chairman of CDL Academy Sdn. Bhd., Prof. Dr. Mohd Shafry Bin Mohd Rahim, Vice-Chancellor of Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, and Associate Professor Ir. Dr. Noor Nabilah Sarbini, Director, Forensic Engineering Centre of Universiti Teknologi Malaysia during the Memorandum of Understanding signing ceremony between CDL Academy Sdn. Bhd. and Universiti Teknologi Malaysia.

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