Nilai, Negeri Sembilan – 30 July 2026 – Against a backdrop of global uncertainty, MILA University’s Postgraduate Studies Department under the School of Management and Business (SoMB) convened a roundtable discussion examining the potential economic implications of the US-Iran conflict and how nations can strengthen their preparedness for an evolving global landscape.
Titled “The Future of Nation: New Economic Prospect after the US–Iran War”, the session brought together perspectives from academia and industry to explore geopolitical risk, economic resilience, technological disruption, and emerging opportunities.
The event opened with remarks by Associate Professor Dr. Sugumaran a/l Selladurai, Dean of SoMB, followed by an opening speech by Dr. Jenny Yang Juanjuan, Acting Vice Chancellor of MILA University.
Strengthening Resilience Amid Global Uncertainty
The roundtable examined how geopolitical tensions can extend beyond matters of security to affect trade, investment, energy supply, and economic confidence. As nations and organisations become increasingly exposed to external disruptions, the panellists highlighted the importance of institutional resilience and contingency planning in maintaining stability and responding effectively to uncertainty.
This need for preparedness also shaped the discussion on fiscal sustainability and resource management. Rather than viewing short-term economic support and long-term development as separate priorities, the session considered how targeted fiscal measures and investment in renewable energy could help address immediate pressures while building stronger and more sustainable economies.
The discussion then turned to another major force reshaping the economic landscape: the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence. As industries adapt to new technologies, economic resilience will depend not only on sound policies and resource planning, but also on whether organisations and their workforce are prepared for changing roles, skills, and ways of working.
Preparing Economies and Workforces for Change
The session featured Professor Dr. Adam Leong Kok Wey, Director of the Centre for Defence and International Security Studies at the National Defence University of Malaysia; Mr. Steven Lim Wei Chun, CEO of Finhub Holdings Sdn. Bhd.; and Professor Lim Chee Gay, Managing Director of The Access Group. The discussion was moderated by Associate Professor Ts. Dr. Jessica Ong Hai Liaw, FCILT, Lecturer at the National Defence University of Malaysia.
Drawing on their respective areas of expertise, the panellists explored how artificial intelligence is influencing industries and the labour market. They emphasised the importance of strengthening AI literacy, establishing appropriate governance, and preparing individuals and organisations to adapt as technological advancement continues to transform employment and business practices.
These developments also reinforce the need for closer collaboration among government, academia, and industry. By combining policy direction, academic expertise, and practical industry experience, the three sectors can contribute to more coordinated responses to economic challenges while developing the capabilities required for future workforce demands.
Encouraging Informed Dialogue
The roundtable attracted 90 postgraduate students, lecturers, and industry practitioners, offering participants an opportunity to examine the relationship between geopolitical developments, economic policy, technological change, and workforce readiness.
By bringing these interconnected issues into one discussion, the session offered a broader perspective on how nations and organisations can prepare for uncertainty while identifying opportunities for sustainable development.
The event reflects MILA University’s commitment to connecting academic knowledge with contemporary developments and encouraging informed dialogue on the forces shaping economies, industries, and the future of work.
