Universiti Malaysia Saba h (UMS) and the Federal Territory Mufti Office have officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance collaboration in academic and research development.

The agreement encompasses a range of strategic initiatives, including joint research projects, scholarly publications and in-depth studies on religious issues, Islamic economics, Islamic law and community development.

The MoU was signed by UMS Vice Chancellor, Prof Datuk Dr Kasim Mansor and the Federal Territory Mufti, Datuk Dr Luqman Abdullah.

On Tuesday, a symbolic launching ceremony was officiated by UMS Assistant Vice-Chancellor (Industry and Community Network), who also serves as the director of the Centre for Industry Collaboration and Engagement, Prof Dr Coswald Stephen Sipaut @ Mohd Nasri, together with the Deputy Mufti of the Federal Territory, Jamali Mohd Adnan.

According to Kasim, whose speech was read by Coswald, the MoU will allow both institutions to share expertise through specialised training programmes aimed at enhancing professional skills.

Additionally, they will collaborate on data sharing and resource exchange for academic and research purposes.

"The Federal Territory Mufti Office's expertise, particularly in religious sciences and fields such as moon sighting observations, can further cultivate students' and faculty members' interest in research and scholarly activities at UMS," he stated.

Kasim also emphasized that this partnership aligns with UMS's ongoing efforts to strengthen ties with key institutions in Malaysia, ultimately elevating the quality of education and research at the university.