2 November 2025 – The Institute for Social Science Studies (IPSAS) successfully conducted the 2025 Achievement and 2026 Planning Workshop at Resorts World Awana, Genting Highlands, Pahang, from 31 October to 2 November 2025. The decision to hold the workshop off-campus was intended to create a more conducive environment, free from office operational interruptions. This setting also provided an avenue to cultivate open-mindedness and positive thinking, fostering the generation of constructive ideas that would support the achievement of IPSAS’s 2026 KPI targets. Moreover, the workshop served as a form of welfare appreciation for IPSAS staff who have worked tirelessly in supporting the implementation of various programmes towards achieving the 2025 KPIs.

The programme commenced with a keynote address by the Director, who inspired participants through approaches to harmonize and strengthen the research ecosystem by leveraging existing expertise and integrating strategies that embrace foresight thinking within the field of social sciences. The Director also emphasized IPSAS’s aspirations and strategic direction for 2026, particularly in the areas of Research and Publication, Postgraduate Studies, Networking, and Funding.

Throughout the workshop, a series of group activities were conducted to create a lively, spirited, and collegial atmosphere, thereby nurturing teamwork and camaraderie among IPSAS members. The sessions continued with presentations on current achievements, followed by discussions to identify strengths and challenges within each strategic focus area. Subsequently, all IPSAS members were provided with the opportunity to share insights and recommendations aimed at propelling IPSAS’s performance to greater heights in 2026. On the second day, idea-generation sessions were held to develop realistic and actionable strategies for each focus area. Presentations were then conducted to ensure that all plans and action frameworks were coherent, pragmatic, and achievable, particularly in addressing challenges related to limited human resources.

Amidst the cool and refreshing surroundings, morning recreational activities were also organised around the hotel, in line with the PutraSihat initiative. During the closing session, IPSAS members had the honour of attending an enlightening talk on Strategic Thinking delivered by YBhg. Datuk Nik Mohd Hasyudeen Yusoff, a distinguished figure in the accounting sector and a member of the IPSAS Advisory Committee. It is hoped that the 2026 IPSAS plans, and action strategies will be successfully implemented, thereby elevating the standing of Universiti Putra Malaysia in alignment with UPM’s True North aspiration.

Date of Input: 06/11/2025 | Updated: 06/11/2025 | nm_aini