The story of Quest International University is intertwined with the vision of the QI Group, the global conglomerate that established it. Launched in 2011 in partnership with the Perak government in Malaysia, QIU has distinguished itself as a university driven by experiential learning, inclusivity, and interdisciplinary research. With over 15,000 students since its inception, QIU, located in the city of Ipoh — the capital of the Malaysian state of Perak — offers a vibrant academic environment tailored to meet the needs of a diverse global student body.
The QI Group, founded by Vijay Eswaran and Joseph Bismark in 1998, brought its ethos of innovation and social responsibility into education. Drawing on its extensive business portfolio spanning wellness and lifestyle, travel and leisure, retail, luxury goods, logistics, and property investments, the QI Group infused QIU with a philosophy aimed at producing well-rounded graduates equipped for corporate success and entrepreneurial ventures.
At the heart of QIU’s approach lies a focus on practical, hands-on education. Its courses integrate real-world applications with rigorous academic theory, ensuring students gain the confidence and skills needed to thrive in today’s dynamic job market. This commitment to experiential learning aligns with QIU’s belief that education should extend beyond classrooms and textbooks to prepare students for the realities of professional life.
QIU’s facilities further underscore its commitment to learning by doing. State-of-the-art laboratories, experiential learning centers, and collaborative discussion spaces enable students to delve into their fields of interest while fostering critical thinking and teamwork. These resources are complemented by a robust network of industry advisors and adjunct professors from leading global companies such as Samsung, Intel, and Grab, ensuring the university’s academic programs remain relevant and cutting-edge.
QIU emphasizes its role in equipping graduates with industry-relevant skills. According to the university, “This wealth of experience is a treasure trove for our students. Our lecturers boast a powerful network of industry contacts that connect them to the latest advancements in their respective fields, ensuring that our education remains relevant.”
This commitment to delivering relevant, cutting-edge education extends beyond the classroom to QIU’s broader infrastructure and growth strategy. For example, QI Group collaborated with a prominent Malaysian bank to secure funding to develop QIU’s new campus through a $21.48 million (approximately 100 million Malaysian ringgit) Sukuk Ijarah program. The Islamic financing method, based on leasing principles, reflects the company’s dedication to sustainable educational investments. Notably, this initiative represents the QI Group’s inaugural venture into Malaysia’s capital markets.
Where Is QI Group Headquarters?
The QI Group is a Hong Kong-registered company that has strategically positioned its corporate headquarters in Hong Kong and its operational hub in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. From its initial foothold in the Far East, the QI Group has expanded into South Asia, the Middle East, Europe, Central Asia, and sub-Saharan Africa, establishing itself as a truly international enterprise.
This geographic distribution enables the QI Group to align its operations with diverse markets while maintaining close connections to its subsidiaries and investments. One of QIU’s defining principles is its commitment to inclusive education. Recognizing that every student deserves an equal opportunity to excel, the university provides tailored support for students with special needs. This includes services such as extended examination times, distraction-free testing environments, and assistive technologies like screen readers. Physical accessibility is also prioritized, with wheelchair ramps, dedicated library spaces, and accessible washrooms across campus.
Beyond infrastructure, QIU emphasizes a culture of empathy and understanding. Peer-assisted study sessions, one-on-one mentoring, and career guidance through the Career and Professional Development Centre ensure that all students, regardless of their challenges, are equipped to succeed academically and professionally.
What Unique Educational Approach Does QIU Offer Its Students?
Research and ingenuity are integral to QIU’s mission. Faculty members and students collaborate on groundbreaking projects that address pressing global issues. This research-driven ethos is supported by QIU’s partnerships with international institutions and industry leaders. QIU’s collaboration with China’s Taishan Polytechnic and the Huashi (Malaysia) construction firm is a prime example of this commitment to establish the Malaysia-Ban Mo College, a new knowledge center focusing on vocational skills training.
The CHEC emphasizes faculty development, resource and standard construction, and teaching equipment while integrating vocational skills, language, and study abroad programs. By cultivating local technicians and international talents needed by Chinese enterprises in Malaysia, the initiative aligns with the “Belt and Road” initiative to enhance local employment, promote industrial development, and foster a sustainable educational platform.
With a student body drawn from nearly 50 countries, the university offers a multicultural learning environment that encourages cross-cultural exchange and understanding, enriches classroom discussions, and prepares students for careers in an increasingly interconnected world.
QIU also emphasizes affordability, ensuring that quality education is accessible to students from various socioeconomic backgrounds. By balancing academic excellence with inclusivity, the university stays true to its mission of producing graduates who can make meaningful contributions to their communities and industries.
The QI Group’s strategic approach to business combines innovation with a strong commitment to sustainability and social responsibility. In the luxury goods sector, the QI Group’s acquisition of the Swiss watch brand Cimier — celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2024 — has solidified its presence in the high-end market. Similarly, the hospitality division’s eco-certified resorts, such as Prana Resort Nandana in Thailand, highlight the group’s dedication to sustainable tourism. These ventures complement the group’s investment in education through QIU, creating a portfolio that balances profit with purpose.
QIU’s philosophy positions it as more than an educational institution — it catalyzes societal progress, cultivating leaders who shape industries and communities. It empowers students to challenge conventions, drive impactful change, and contribute to a sustainable global future. Its commitment to redefining education ensures it remains at the forefront of preparing graduates for success and significance in an interconnected world.
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