KUCHING: Wawasan Open University (WOU) has appointed Professor. Dr. Yap Eng Hwa as its new chief executive and vice-chancellor, effective Jul 1.
Taking over from Professor Dr. Lily Chan, who led the university for the past seven years, Yap is expected to steer WOU into its next phase of growth as it continues to expand access to quality higher education through flexible, open and industry-relevant learning pathways.
The appointment also reflects the university’s continued focus on equipping learners with the skills needed to meet Malaysia’s rapidly evolving workforce and industrial landscape.
Yap joined WOU in 2024 as associate vice-chancellor before assuming the role of deputy vice-chancellor (Academic), where he led several key initiatives to strengthen the university’s academic ecosystem.
During his tenure, he oversaw the establishment of the School of Graduate Studies and the Centre for Student Engagement and Success, while spearheading efforts to enhance programme quality, improve student outcomes and strengthen institutional capabilities.
He also played a key role in strengthening WOU’s engagement with industry by aligning its academic programmes more closely with Penang’s fast-growing digital and semiconductor ecosystems.
Before joining WOU, Yap served as the founding dean of Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University’s industry-integrated Taicang Campus in Suzhou, China, where he led the establishment of three industry-focused schools specialising in intelligent manufacturing, robotics and semiconductor technology.
His academic leadership experience also includes appointments at the University of Technology Sydney, the University of Nottingham Malaysia and University College London.
He currently serves as a visiting professor at Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University.
Yap holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Mechanical Engineering from University College London, a Postgraduate Certificate in Higher Education from the University of Nottingham and a Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Marine Technology from the University of Plymouth.
WOU board of governors chairman Tan Sri Dr. Koh Tsu Koon said Yap’s appointment reinforces the university’s commitment to serving lifelong learners while responding to Malaysia’s changing talent needs.
“Yap brings a potent combination of global academic leadership and a deep understanding of WOU’s role in expanding opportunities for adult learners.
“As industrial demands shift, WOU bridges the gap between workforce capability and economic relevance.
“The Board is confident that under Yap’s leadership, WOU will continue to strengthen its contribution to Malaysia’s industrial transformation and nation-building agenda,” he said in a press statement.
