{
  "id": 11916157,
  "title": "Zahid proposes quantum technology department at UiTM by next year",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/04/zahid-proposes-quantum-technology-department-at-uitm-by-next-year",
  "topic": "tech",
  "section": "Tech",
  "published": "2026-10-04T11:34:30.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "New Straits Times",
    "slug": "new-straits-times",
    "url": "https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2026/10/1547600/zahid-proposes-quantum-technology-department-uitm-next-year"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Shah Alam: Deputy Prime Minister Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has proposed the establishment of a quantum technology department at Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) within the next year, according to recent reports. The aim is to develop specialists in this emerging field and enable Malaysia to keep pace with developed countries in quantum technology. Zahid expressed hope that the proposed quantum department could eventually evolve into a full-fledged faculty. He noted that this new technology, based on the latest technological developments, would place the country at the forefront alongside other developed nations. While praising the progress made in artificial intelligence, Zahid emphasized the importance of not being left behind in quantum technology. During a press conference after opening the Wacana Semarak Patriotisme Seminar Ilmuwan Islam at UiTM Shah Alam, Zahid announced that RM500,000 would be allocated as initial funding to kick-start the proposed department. He expressed confidence in the tremendous potential to attract many students into this field, predicting that within less than a decade, Malaysia could produce quantum specialists. The allocation of funds will be determined by Tan Sri Khamil, the Chairman of UiTM's Board of Directors, who will decide how the initial funding will be utilized.",
  "summary": "SHAH ALAM: Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi wants Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) to establish a quantum technology department by next year to produce specialists in the emerging field.",
  "key_points": [
    "Deputy PM Dr Ahmad Zahid proposes quantum technology department at UiTM within a year.",
    "RM500,000 allocated as initial funding to kick-start the department.",
    "Zahid hopes department evolves into a full-fledged faculty within a decade."
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}