UTS set on becoming academic publishing powerhouse

SIBU: University of Technology Sarawak (UTS) has produced a total of 25 book titles on diverse subjects since its establishment in 2021.

“Our authors hail not only from UTS but also from esteemed institutions such as Unimas, UMK, USM and FRIM,” said Vice Chancellor, Prof Datuk Dr. Khairuddin Ab. Hamid.

“As a burgeoning publisher, these accomplishments hold immense significance, indicating that our publication centre is firmly on the path to becoming an academic publishing powerhouse in the near future.

“This success is attributed to the remarkable efforts and dedication of our staff, who have played a pivotal role in making these achievements possible,” he said at the launch of the UTS Publisher’s 2024 book collection, held at its premises here Wednesday (Jan 24).

The book collection, a remarkable compilation of 11 influential works, spanning the diverse fields of science and technology, business, and engineering, was officially launched by Deputy Minister of Education, Inovation and Talent Development, Dr Annuar Rapaee.

Khairuddin said as UTS steps into 2024, a new milestone awaits UTS as it proudly receives its first international manuscript from a university in Indonesia.

This collaboration, he said, marks the beginning of a promising chapter for UTS, symbolising the trust placed by international institutions in the capabilities of the publishing house.

“We anticipate and welcome further collaborations with international authors, aiming to continue producing and publishing high-quality scholarly books in the future.

“The authors of our books, the brilliant minds behind this literacy creation, have not only contributed to the wealth of knowledge within our academic fields but have also inspired us with their dedication to the pursuit of excellence.

“These books exemplify the tireless efforts, research, and passion that our authors pour into their work, shaping the intellectual landscape of our university.

“And as we delve into the pages of these books, we embark on a journey that transcends the boundaries of conventional thinking, challenges established paradigms, and offers fresh perspectives, ” he stated.

He pointed out these books represent not only a culmination of academic rigour but also a testament to the solid commitment to advancing the frontiers of knowledge.

He said UTS has initiated a series of writing programmes and workshops designed to support and inspire aspiring authors within the academic staff.

He said these initiatives aim to empower scholars to publish scholarly books grounded in their research endeavours.

“Let us celebrate the book launch not only as a literary achievement but as a symbol of the intellectual vitality that defines UTS.

“May these books inspire future generations of scholars to continue pushing the boundaries of knowledge and contribute to the ever-evolving landcape of academia,” Khairuddin added.

Also present were State Director of Dewan Bahasa & Pustaka, Abang Haliman Abang Julai, Director of UTS Publisher, Assoc Prof Dr. Muhammad Firdaus Abong Abdullah and Chief Executive Officer of Kolej Laila Taib, Wong Kwong Lee.