Building on the success of its Artificial Intelligence (AI) training for smart farming in Perak, the Centre for Water Engineering Technology (CWET) has extended its expertise to the Rubber Industry Smallholders Development Authority (RISDA) community in Melaka.
Held from 18 to 21 August 2025, the AI in Branding and Marketing short course benefited 40 entrepreneurs as well as small and medium enterprise (SME) representatives, aimed at enhancing their competitiveness in today’s digital marketplace.
The programme was led by Associate Professor Dr. Engku Ahmad Azrulhisham and Associate Professor Dr. Ahmad Shakir Mohd Saudi, supported by Dr. Muhammad Nur Farhan Saniman and Dr. Mohd Fadzil Abu Hassan as facilitators.
According to Dr. Ahmad Shakir, over the four days, participants were introduced to fundamental principles of branding, effective marketing strategies, and practical applications of AI to strengthen their businesses.
The training combined theoretical insights with hands-on practice, enabling participants to design logos, posters, and promotional content, as well as develop advertisements using AI-powered tools.
“They also learned how generative AI can be applied in digital marketing, particularly in producing copywriting and visual content tailored to customer needs.
“Many participants shared that the course not only broadened their knowledge but also equipped them with practical skills that could be immediately applied to their businesses.
“By using AI tools, they felt more confident in producing professional marketing materials and reaching wider audiences. This, they noted, was especially beneficial for small enterprises striving to compete with larger players in the digital marketplace,” Dr. Ahmad Shakir said.
The short course was organised through a collaboration between CWET, the UniKL Centre for Advancement & Continuing Education (ACE), and RISDA.
Although CWET is primarily recognised for its expertise in water engineering and environmental sustainability, Dr. Ahmad Shakir emphasised that this initiative demonstrates the centre’s commitment to expanding its impact beyond its core discipline.
“The collaboration with UniKL ACE and RISDA further underscores UniKL’s mission to deliver industry-relevant education and community-focused training that directly supports Malaysia’s transformation agenda,” he added.
