By Hasmadiana Che Mohamad Aasdik, Centre for Research and Field Services.

Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT) has made history recently when they signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with Media Prima Audio and its popular radio station, Hot FM, to broadcast a special radio show, Bekpes Hot Tawan Laut, live from underwater!

This partnership will also help strengthen ties between the academic world and the broadcasting industry.

UMT Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ir. Ts. Dr. Mohd Zamri Ibrahim, said this partnership is a major step towards creating a unique and exciting programme, Bekpes Hot Tawan Laut. This is not just a regular radio show but will set a record as Malaysia’s first-ever underwater broadcast and have the potential to make history on a global scale as well.

This collaboration with Hot FM also provides UMT with a broad platform to showcase its expertise in marine and environmental sustainability sciences.

Beyond boosting UMT’s presence at national and international levels, the initiative offers invaluable out-of-classroom experiences to UMT students, allowing them to participate in broadcast programmes and career interaction sessions with popular Hot FM hosts, including Khairy Jamaluddin (KJ), Fara Fauzana, Johan, and AG.

In his closing speech, Prof. Zamri thanked Media Prima Audio and Hot FM for their trust and support towards UMT. He also expressed his appreciation for the efforts of everyone involved, including teams from PPPL, HEPA, the Corporate Communications Centre, and Hot FM’s technical and production crews for making the event a success.

With the signing of this MoA, UMT has embarked on a new chapter in its strategic partnership with the broadcasting industry. The university believes this will serve as the best platform to spread knowledge, raise public awareness, and improve its global reputation.

Over the years, UMT has had impressive achievements through its Diving Centre, overseen by the Research and Field Services Centre (PPPL). These accomplishments have established UMT as Malaysia’s first university to receive ISO 9001:2015 certification for education management and scuba diving licensing.

Among these achievements are the establishment of Malaysia’s first Underwater Gallery, the execution of the longest underwater human chain, the largest clownfish release, recognition from the Malaysia Book of Records for the biggest simultaneous scuba licensing programme, and the installation of Malaysia’s first underwater RHB ATM.