The collaboration represents a shared commitment between industry and academia to create stronger learning opportunities for students while preparing them with the skills, knowledge and confidence needed to succeed in the professional environment. Through this partnership, Gardenia and UiTM aim to nurture graduates who are better equipped to meet the evolving demands of the food and bakery manufacturing industry.
The Gardenia x UiTM Apprenticeship 2026 was developed as an industry-based learning platform that allows students to gain practical experience beyond traditional classroom settings. The programme focused on key areas including food innovation, product development, branding and marketing strategies for bread-based products.
Throughout the programme, students were guided through the complete product creation process, beginning with market research and idea development, followed by concept planning, branding direction and strategies for potential market introduction.
Puan Ena Suhaila Abas, Senior Marketing Manager of Gardenia Bakeries (KL) Sdn. Bhd., shared that investing in young talents has always been part of Gardenia’s commitment towards supporting Malaysia’s future growth.
She said the apprenticeship programme was designed to give students more than just industry exposure, but also the opportunity to develop creative thinking and business understanding by approaching challenges like entrepreneurs, brand strategists and product innovators.
“Gardenia has always believed that Malaysia’s younger generation is our greatest strength for the future. Through this programme, we hope students can explore their potential, create meaningful ideas and contribute fresh perspectives that can benefit both the industry and society,” she said.
Prof. Dr. Ahmad Taufek Abdul Rahman, Acting Rector of UiTM Selangor Branch, highlighted that industry partnerships are essential in helping students gain relevant experience before entering the workforce.
He explained that initiatives such as this provide students with valuable exposure to real business environments while strengthening their technical abilities, confidence and career readiness.
The closing ceremony was attended by Mr. Derrick Khoo, Acting Chief Executive Officer of Gardenia Bakeries (KL) Sdn. Bhd., alongside students, lecturer-mentors and representatives from both Gardenia and UiTM.
The Gardenia x UiTM Apprenticeship 2026 featured participation from 22 UiTM campuses across Peninsular Malaysia. Each campus was represented by a team consisting of five students under the guidance of a lecturer-mentor, bringing the total participation to 110 students.
As part of the programme challenge, students were required to develop innovative product concepts based on Gardenia’s Ready-to-Eat (RTE) range, including QuickBites, PUAZZ!, Toast’em Waffles, Squiggles and Twiggies.
The challenge encouraged students to explore creative approaches in product innovation while considering important elements such as consumer needs, branding strategy and commercial possibilities.
During the first phase, teams submitted three RTE product concepts through video presentations. Following an evaluation process, the top five teams advanced to the final stage, where they prepared complete brand strategy proposals and presented their ideas directly to a judging panel.
The champion award was presented to Munchz Grab & Bites Delight from UiTM Pahang Branch, Raub Campus, who received RM5,000 together with an opportunity for industry training placement with Gardenia. Kaya Cakoi Bites from UiTM Negeri Sembilan Branch, Kuala Pilah Campus achieved the first runner-up position, while Dip N Bite from UiTM Kelantan Branch, Kota Bharu Campus secured third place.
Meanwhile, Mochi Roti Bites from UiTM Kelantan Branch, Machang Campus and GD Burger from UiTM Negeri Sembilan Branch, Seremban Campus received consolation prizes. The Best Presenter Award was also awarded to the UiTM Pahang Branch, Raub Campus team.
For the winning team, Munchz Grab & Bites Delight, the programme provided an opportunity to experience the bakery industry from a business perspective. The team shared that the apprenticeship helped them enhance their understanding of product creation, brand development and strategic planning.
In addition to the apprenticeship programme, UiTM conducted a dietary habits study involving more than 2,200 students from 22 participating campuses. The study was carried out to gain a deeper understanding of students’ eating patterns and their possible relationship with academic performance and mental well-being.
The findings from the research will be compiled into an official UiTM report and are expected to provide valuable information for Gardenia in understanding the lifestyle, preferences and expectations of younger consumers.
Gardenia also expanded its engagement efforts through a University Roadshow conducted across participating campuses. The initiative allowed students to connect with the Gardenia team, explore the latest Ready-to-Eat product offerings and participate in interactive activities.
Throughout the roadshow, Gardenia distributed more than 11,000 RTE product packs to students as part of its efforts to strengthen relationships with the younger generation while supporting practical industry learning.
Moving forward, Gardenia remains committed to building meaningful collaborations with educational institutions and supporting initiatives that encourage innovation, creativity and professional growth among young Malaysians.
Through its partnership with UiTM, Gardenia continues to play an active role in shaping future-ready talents while contributing towards the continued development of Malaysia’s food and bakery industry.
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