SELANGOR, November 2025 — The ARSCIC 2025 and School TrackRail Adventure: We Are the Champion concluded on a high note with an impactful Closing Ceremony officiated by Yang Amat Berhormat Dato’ Seri Amirudin bin Shari, Menteri Besar Selangor. The event marked not just the end of a series of activities, but the beginning of a broader movement to cultivate young talent, strengthen research culture, and bridge the gap between academia and the rail industry.

In his closing speech, YAB Dato’ Seri Amirudin emphasised that the initiatives spearheaded by UTHM reflect a long-term commitment to producing skilled professionals while enhancing the nation’s capabilities in sustainable, technology-driven transportation. He commended UTHM’s consistent efforts in developing talent aligned with Malaysia’s green mobility agenda.

He reiterated Selangor’s commitment to leading the transformation of sustainable public transportation in Malaysia. Through the Selangor Maju Jaya (SMJ) agenda, the state has prioritised green, efficient and integrated mobility initiatives such as the Bas Smart Selangor, the expansion of Transit Oriented Development (TOD), and major rail infrastructures including LRT3 and ECRL. These developments, he said, are essential for creating a competitive, inclusive and environmentally responsible state.

YAB Dato’ Seri Amirudin also highlighted the significance of the STARS programme, which introduces secondary school students to the world of rail. He described the initiative as “strategic and forward-looking,” as early exposure builds discipline, engineering interest and technical understanding among future generations. This long-term investment, he said, is crucial to producing the next generation of local rail experts.

He further applauded ARSCIC 2025 for successfully bringing together government, industry, and universities. The platform not only facilitates knowledge exchange but also sparks innovative solutions to modern mobility challenges ranging from carbon emissions and system integration to smart city development. This three-way collaboration demonstrates how collective effort can drive national progress.

Citing data from the Ministry of Transport Malaysia, he noted the significant economic potential of the rail sector, supported by major projects such as the ECRL, RTS Link Johor–Singapore, LRT3 and KTM Komuter upgrades. These developments are expected to generate billions in economic impact for the participating states. Selangor, he added, is determined to ensure that these advancements are supported by highly skilled local talent, an area where institutions like UTHM and MSA play crucial roles.

He reaffirmed the state’s commitment to positioning Selangor as a national hub for rail education and innovation. Collaboration with UTHM, federal agencies, and industry players willcontinue to expand, including potential partnerships with SSDU and STDC to develop 21st century rail education modules for students and communities.

YAB Dato’ Seri Amirudin encouraged all participants, students, researchers, and industry professionals to sustain the spirit of innovation and collaboration fostered through ARSCIC. As the world transitions rapidly toward green and digital economies, he stressed that Malaysia must move forward with agility and confidence, harnessing creativity and technology to build a sustainable mobility ecosystem that enhances the nation’s economic growth and quality of life.

He concluded by congratulating all parties involved in STARS and ARSCIC 2025, expressing deep appreciation for the dedication of Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia, the Ministry of Transport Malaysia, as well as industry partners and participating schools. Their collective efforts, he said, prove that strong synergy between universities, government and industry has the power to create meaningful national impact.

With that, he officially declared the closing of School TrackRail Adventure: Selangor. We Are the Champion and ARSCIC 2025, expressing hope that the success of this event will inspire the next generation to pursue careers in rail technology, sustainable mobility and future innovation.