Peninsula College at The Ship Campus, an innovative educational facility, is set to transform the logistics and industrial education sector in Malaysia. The Ship Campus, conceptualised as a ‘Campus-in-Industry’, forms the core of PKT Logistics Group (PKT)’s strategy to merge academic learning with hands-on industry experience.
PKT Group Chief Executive and Managing Director, Datuk Seri Dr Michael Tio, emphasised in an interview that the campus’s strategic position within the Batu Kawan Industrial Park supports PKT’s intention to create an integrated ecosystem for students and employers.
“The Ship Campus, as the Centre of Excellence for Peninsula College Malaysia, PKT’s CSR-in-education arm, is more than just a place of learning, but also a catalyst for transforming Malaysia’s logistics and industrial landscape,” he stated.
Michael, who also serves as managing director of Peninsula Higher Education Sdn Bhd, explained that their educational direction complements Malaysia’s Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) initiative. The curriculum focuses on both hard and soft skills, equipping students for workforce demands immediately after graduation.
He noted that TVET’s reputation has increased, becoming a significant component in Malaysian education, especially in logistics, manufacturing, and technology.
“To strengthen TVET’s appeal, we introduced the ‘Jom Berkerja Sambil Belajar’ (Work While You Learn) programme, where students gain real-world experience while pursuing their studies, giving them a competitive edge in the workforce,” said Michael. He highlighted that practical skills are now vital alongside academic knowledge, with students also developing character and resilience through this approach. The holistic method ensures graduates are adaptable and prepared to face real-world challenges.
In addition to academic offerings, Michael pointed out that The Ship Campus includes a state-of-the-art IR4.0 lab aimed at both students and industry professionals to upskill and keep pace with technological advancements. This facility addresses the workforce skills gap by supporting MQA-accredited courses and industry-led training.
Located close to the Sultan Abdul Halim Mu’adzam Shah Bridge, The Ship Campus is swiftly becoming a regional landmark, recognised for its distinctive cruise-ship-like architecture. The building supports holistic learning and boasts modern lecture theatres, collaborative spaces, and recreational amenities, fostering academic and personal development. Sustainability is a priority, with the campus featuring green practices and energy-efficient systems.
“Currently, the campus is being utilised for various events, including ceremonies, functions, training sessions, and retreats. With a seating capacity of 4,000, it is poised to accommodate a wide range of activities in the future,” Michael concluded.
Former Penang Governor, Tun Ahmad Fuzi Abdul Razak, who officiated the campus in May 2022, has recently praised Peninsula College at The Ship Campus for its progressive education model, saying it redefines learning through the Campus-in-Industry approach. He stated that this model combines academic content with practical experience, ensuring graduates are ready for the workforce and strengthening Penang’s talent pipeline.
“With Batu Kawan fast rising as a business and industrial powerhouse, The Ship Campus plays a key role in fuelling Penang’s investment appeal, creating jobs, and building a resilient, future-proof economy,” said Ahmad Fuzi. He further highlighted the importance of accessible education, commending the Yayasan PKT’s Education Excellence Scholarships for supporting polytechnics and deserving individuals, which enables students from diverse backgrounds to enter higher education without financial hardship.
“Additionally, Peninsula College stands out as a model of excellence in higher education. Its innovative learning environment at The Ship Campus, uniquely designed to resemble a cruise ship which perfectly blends modern aesthetics with functionality, creates an inspirational space that embodies the future of education,” he added.
The Ship Campus is a development by PKT Logistics Group Sdn Bhd and accommodates PKT’s education entities, including Peninsula College, which offers tertiary programmes in partnership with the University of Plymouth, UK; PenSkills, providing skilling, upskilling and reskilling programmes; and PenPostgrad, offering an MSc in International Logistics and Supply Chain Management in collaboration with the University of Plymouth, UK.
