Our cultural heritage is rich with symbols and connections, none more potent than the figure of the
marketplace middleman. In the 15th century, Malacca, strategically located along the vital spice
route, asserted itself as a crucial trading center, parallel with illustrious ports like Venice, Calicut, and
Guangzhou. More than a hub of commerce, Malacca symbolized an amalgamation of civilizations, a
meeting place for ideas that resonate through history. This ancient role finds renewed significance in
Malaysia's modern context, especially at the intersection of academia and industry, two realms
often regarded as separate.

The historical resonance of the middleman reaches beyond mere trade; it's a dynamic metaphor
that shaped our identity. Reflecting on the Malacca Sultanate era, we uncover layers of complexity
where adaptability bridged these distant realms. This intricate heritage continues to guide
contemporary scholars, offering tools to build connections in the nuanced landscape between
research and commercial interests.

Recent happenings at Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) highlight this connection vividly. In the ICAN
(UPMs Industry Community Appreciation Event) 2023, five industrial strategic partners, which are
the Ministry of Economy Malaysia, MDEC, Tanah Makmur Berhad, Shell, and a philanthropist Dr. Ling
Tung King was honored with appreciation certificates. By aiding UPM in educational, research, and
knowledge transfer work (also known as extension work), these partnerships demonstrate the real-world implications of academia and industry collaboration.

At CiRNeT UPM, harmonizing academia with industry emerges as a nuanced dance, filled with
contrasts and paradoxes. The divergence in goals, language, and success measurements may widen
the divide, but the potential for creativity and innovation lies within these contrasts. Embracing the
adaptable spirit of our forebears, we forge connections that go beyond mere bridges, fostering
dialogues that explore and celebrate the unique attributes of both worlds.

Reflecting on this alignment process reveals how adaptability and negotiation can transform
unrelatedness into collaboration. We move beyond transactional relationships to cultivate
connections that resonate with genuine friendship, fostering shared innovation, growth, and
enduring partnership. This process resonates at CiRNeT UPM, providing a blueprint for collaboration
that respects our unique cultural lineage.

The complexity of uniting academia and industry at CiRNeT UPM becomes an opportunity to craft
dynamic partnerships, sparking growth and ingenuity. Drawing from the ancestral wisdom as
“middleman” we carve new paths for intellectual and economic advancement. This harmonious
fusion echoes our past and anticipates a vibrant future, where academia and industry dance in
unison, creating a responsive and thriving landscape.

If you ever want to embark on this journey of collaboration between academia and industry, from
our experience it requires strategic and intentional steps. Firstly, identifying a unique value
proposition that addresses real-world problems is fundamental. It's not merely about innovation but
about practical solutions that resonate with the demands of our times. Secondly, assembling your
maverick – a team of unconventional thinkers and practitioners ready to challenge the status quo –
is vital. These creative minds will be the driving force behind breakthroughs and innovation. Lastly, a
relentless effort to initiate collaboration is crucial. Even starting with a small project can ignite the
spark of partnership. It's the unyielding pursuit of common goals, a shared vision, and a concerted
effort that transforms ideas into reality, building bridges between theory and practice, and laying the
foundation for a future filled with promise and progress.

ASAH, CiRNeT UPM
300823

Date of Input: 31/08/2023 | Updated: 31/08/2023 | zaidi_tajuddin