DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER LAUNCHES UPM'S 'AL BIRUNI SMART SPACE', EMPOWERING STUDENTS' DIGITAL EDUCATION ECOSYSTEM

SERDANG, August 20, 2026 – Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) marks another significant milestone in its educational facility empowerment agenda as the Deputy Prime Minister, [Name of Deputy Prime Minister], today officiated the inauguration ceremony of the 'Al Biruni Smart Space' on the university campus.

This high-impact initiative is a hybrid and interactive learning space specifically designed to transform the students' academic landscape, in line with the educational requirements of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (IR4.0).

Transformation of Modern Learning Spaces

Named after the prominent Islamic scholar and polymath, Abu Rayhan Al-Biruni, this smart space was developed with the objective of stimulating a culture of critical thinking, innovation, and collaborative discussion among students.

In his inauguration speech, the Deputy Prime Minister praised UPM's proactive initiative in providing first-class infrastructure that meets the preferences and needs of today's generation of students.

"The development of the Al Biruni Smart Space is a clear manifestation of the government's and the university management's commitment to ensuring the continuity of the national digital education ecosystem. Holistic facilities like this are highly critical in producing graduates who are not only academically excellent but also technologically literate and globally competitive," he said.

Innovative Features of the Al Biruni Smart Space

To ensure maximum comfort and learning effectiveness, this smart space is equipped with various modern smart technology integrations. Among the main facilities provided are:

 Smart Discussion Rooms (Smart Pods): Soundproof spaces equipped with smart interactive screens and video conferencing systems to facilitate hybrid discussions with students or lecturers off-campus.

 IoT (Internet of Things) Based Environment: Lighting, ventilation, and air-conditioning systems that are automatically adjusted using smart sensors to save energy and maintain a conducive temperature.

 Relaxation Zone & High-Speed Network: A lounge area complete with device charging sockets and uninterrupted high-speed Wi-Fi connectivity.

Date of Input: 30/04/2025 | Updated: 20/08/2026 | rizal_helmi