#Japan #Tokyo #USM #Energize #Engineering Expo

Energize Partners with Universiti Sains Malaysia

Introduction

Energize, a Tokyo-based company led by CEO Taro Ozaki, has officially signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) on May 20, 2026. This collaboration focuses on international talent recruitment and promoting industry-academia partnerships, addressing Japan's growing shortage of skilled engineering professionals.

The Significance of the Agreement

With this new arrangement, overseas companies, especially those from Japan, can engage directly with USM's top engineering students and graduates on the university campus. This strategy aims to expand opportunities for engineering recruitment, internships, and collaborative projects. Previously, most firms coordinating hiring activities with USM were local Malaysian companies. This initiative represents a new international recruitment model allowing foreign companies easy access to highly skilled talent from one of ASEAN's premier universities.

The Context: Talent Shortage in Japan

The shortage of highly-skilled engineering professionals in Japan has become an increasingly critical issue, with many companies struggling to support growth strategies relying solely on domestic talent. In contrast, there is an abundance of young, internationally-minded individuals in ASEAN countries eager to establish connections with global corporations early in their academic careers.

Recognizing this need, Energize has been actively supporting international talent recruitment and the development of global organizations in the ASEAN region. This collaboration with USM marks a significant step forward in addressing the talent gap.

Engineering Career Expo 2026

The first collaborative event under this partnership was the Engineering Career Expo 2026, held on May 20-21, 2026, at the USM Engineering Campus in Penang, Malaysia. Over 60 companies and industry organizations from countries including Japan and China participated, offering recruitment opportunities, internships, and career consultations to USM engineering students and graduates.

Professor Dr. Azlan Amran, USM's Vice-Chancellor of Industry and Community, noted that the participation of over 60 companies reflects the industry's confidence in the quality and employability of USM graduates.

A New Recruitment Model: Direct Engagement between Japanese Companies and ASEAN Talent

The most defining aspect of this collaboration is the opportunity for overseas companies, particularly Japanese at first, to meet students directly on campus for recruitment purposes. This approach presents a fresh opportunity for companies to discover skilled engineering talents locally while broadening the career prospects for students.

Future Prospects: Building an International Talent Circulation Platform

Looking ahead, Energize plans to carry out corporate seminars, workshops, and internship collaborations to foster career development for students while facilitating global talent acquisition for businesses. Energize is committed to strengthening partnerships with universities across Asia, contributing to the establishment of a sustainable international talent circulation platform.

CEO Taro Ozaki's Vision

Taro Ozaki expressed his honor in forming this partnership, aligning with USM's commitment to maximizing the potential of talented young individuals and promoting international career opportunities. He emphasized the importance of bridging the gap between academia and industry, advocating for students to embrace their potential beyond just high salaries, and to realize the value and fulfillment in creating new opportunities across borders and cultures. Energize aims to continue this collaborative effort with USM comprehensively, supporting students in thriving in a globalized era.

About Universiti Sains Malaysia

Founded in 1969, Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) is a nationally recognized institution in Malaysia and was designated as an APEX university by the government in 2008. USM is known for its excellent educational and research facilities, playing a pivotal role in producing the next generation of international engineers. Its engineering curriculum spans ample fields such as aerospace, mechanical, electrical, chemical, civil, and materials engineering, integrating theoretical knowledge with practical applications. Through industry collaboration and career fairs, USM equips students with practical skills and problem-solving abilities, resulting in highly respected graduates in Malaysia and beyond.

About Energize

Founded in April 2009, Energize is a company that specializes in global and cross-border project support. They focus on recruiting talent worldwide that fits corporate needs and providing training services to build an organizational culture where not only Japanese employees but also individuals from diverse backgrounds can excel.
Website: Energize