Academic Staff Attachment (ASA) in the industry means being physically present in the industry for a specific duration with the purpose to strengthen the university-industry relationship/network, understand the work culture, progress, needs and industrial objective. Possibly, a short-range project can be done. Smart-partnership between the university and industry is one of the main factors to raise standard and quality in specific fields. Input from industry on the current practice, current technology, expertise needed, and such are very important for academic development and sustainability, research and consultation in the university. One of the responsibilities of Division of Industry & Community Network (DICN) in the universities is to establish and encourage this programme. 

As stated in the National Strategic Higher Education Plan, unemployment issue among graduates is often linked to lack of specific skills needed by the industry. Employers’ perception towards the good quality of graduates from overseas compared to the local graduates still exists. One of the effective ways is to enhance excellence traits, innovativeness and creativity in the university through the staff attachment programme. This programme is an important channel to inform the industry regarding the university’s projects and activities, awards and recognition received by the university, as well as a medium to receive input from the industry to empower learning in the university. Staff attachment to industries is also a necessity for academic program that requires recognition by professional bodies.