USM PENANG, 25 March 2024 - The Commonwealth Academic Forum 2024 was held online today, via Cisco Webex, to look at the issues on the growing importance of women taking leading roles in different areas, especially in higher education, where they are reshaping paradigms and propelling transformative change.

The forum was jointly organised by the Commonwealth Tertiary Education Facility (CTEF) and Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE), Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), National Higher Education Research Institute (IPPTN), and the Malaysian Society for Higher Education Policy and Research Development (PenDaPat).

Focusing on the issue of "Shattering Expectations: Women Leadership in Higher Education", the forum addressed a critical juncture, encapsulating the transformative journey of women who are breaking barriers, defying stereotypes, and assuming leadership roles within the academia.

It is crucial to recognise the interrelation of the dialogue with global initiatives aimed at fostering gender equality and promoting quality education.

According to USM Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic and International, Professor Dato’ Gs. Dr. Narimah Samat, in her opening speech, she underscored the profound significance of women's leadership in driving progress towards fulfilling Sustainable Development Goal 5,on Gender Equality.

“We recognise the pivotal role of women's leadership in driving progress towards this goal, fostering inclusivity, and ensuring equal opportunities for all,” she said.

Narimah further emphasised the pivotal role of women's leadership in higher education as a catalyst for achieving Sustainable Development Goal 4, relating to Quality Education.

Recognising the transformative power of education in empowering individuals and communities, she stressed the importance of nurturing talent, fostering creativity, and promoting lifelong learning through inclusive and equitable education systems.

“As we navigate this discourse, we must also confront the challenges that persist. It is incumbent upon us to address these challenges collectively, through collaborative efforts and targeted initiatives that create a conducive environment for women to thrive and succeed,” she added.

The speakers who presented relating to the overall theme of the forum were the Executive Director, Centre for Academic Partnerships and Engagement (CAPE), University of Nottingham Malaysia, Associate Professor Dr. Rozilini Mary Fernandez-Chung, PFHEA; and the Vice-Chancellor, SABS University of Art, Design and Heritages Jamshoro, Pakistan, Professor Dr. Arabella Bhutto, moderated by the Programme Director of Taylor’s University Malaysia and also Deputy Secretary of PenDaPat, Marzura Abdul Malek.

The Undersecretary, International Relations Division, MOHE, Datin Noorazah Omar then delivered the closing remarks at the end of the programme, in which she highlighted the significant role of women in Malaysia’s higher education sector.

Noorazah urged for the continuation of efforts to foster diversity, inclusion, and excellence in higher education, emphasising that women's leadership is key to achieving a brighter, more equal future.

“Let us continue this momentum and commitment towards fostering a culture of diversity, inclusion, and excellence in higher education, where women's leadership not only shatters expectations but also paves the way for a brighter and more equal future for all,” she said.

The CTEF acts as a network for Commonwealth countries, facilitating the development of tertiary education by sharing knowledge and best practices.

Also present at the virtual forum were the Programme Director, Sri Jeyanthirar Subramaniam and IPPTN Director, Ts. Dr. Rohayati Mohd Isa.

Text: Nur Farrah Ezlin Mohd Suhaimi/Photo: Commonwealth Tertiary Education Facility (CTEF)

USM PENANG, 19 March 2024 – The new batch of international students have arrived at Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) to join classes in the new semester, and an orientation programme has been lined up for them to allow them to know more about the university and its surroundings.

The orientation programme for 254 full-time international students and 108 exchange students will be held beginning 18 - 22 March 2024.

The USM International Mobility and Collaboration Centre (IMCC) will be running the programme, with assistance from IMCC Student Buddies, mobility and Visa sections and as well as the Division of Student Development Affairs and Alumni (BHEPA) and the respective academic schools.

IMCC Director, Associate Professor Dr. Muhizam Mustafa said, “This orientation engagement is important to expose the new international students to a whole new experience in USM.”

“This is a proud moment to showcase to our international students that they have made the right decision in pursuing their higher education with USM as we advocate this idea that ‘Everything is Better at USM!’” he added.

The new students will be visiting their academic schools as part of the programme, where they will be provided with essential information on their studies, options and academic matters at the schools.

USM is one of the public universities in the country with a high number of international student enrolment. The current number stands at 9,764. The new academic session at the university is planned to begin next week.

Among the academic schools that have received confirmation regarding international students enrolment are the School of Educational Studies; School of Industrial Technology; School of Languages, Literacies and Translation; School of Management, School of Mathematical Sciences; School of Computer Sciences; School of Biological Sciences; School of Chemical Sciences; and School of Physics.

Text: Mazlan Hanafi Basharudin/Photos: IMCC USM & BHEPA USM 

NIBONG TEBAL, 8 March 2024 – In an effort to strengthen international collaborations, Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), through the Director's Office of Engineering Campus, today hosted an official visit from Kyushu Institute of Technology (KYUTECH).

Based in Fukuoka, Japan, KYUTECH is one of the leading universities aiming to establish strategic partnerships worldwide and the meeting is part of their initiative to expand its global collaborations, with a target of establishing 10 collaborative relationships with universities around the world by 2026.

The meeting, chaired by the Dean of the School of Civil Engineering, Associate Professor Ir. Dr. Fadzli Mohamed Nazri, is hoped to be a crucial step in strengthening ties and fostering meaningful collaborations between USM and KYUTECH, ultimately promoting research, academic exchange, and international cooperation.

Notably, USM and KYUTECH have already engaged in collaborative efforts within the fields of Civil Engineering,involving programmes such as PhD mobility and supervision,as well as joint initiatives in biotechnology and research.

Representing KYUTECH at the meeting were Special Assistant to the Vice President cum the Chief Specialist of the International Operation Headquarters, Wakabayashi Toshiro; Director of Education & Research Centre in Malaysia cum Director of Collaborative Research Centre for Green Materials on Environmental Technology, Associate Professor Yoshito Ando and Associate Professor Shinya Ikeno.

The collaborative relationship between USM and KYUTECH is expected to mirror successful partnerships between other universities and to include various levels of engagement that have proven to be effective in terms of internationalisation.

This is in line with the University's vision to strengthen its international presence and promote academic collaboration, and the institution also aims to formalise and evaluate these collaborative activities.

As for KYUTECH, it aims to designate USM as its fifth international strategic partner, marking a significant milestone in the growing relationship between the two institutions and opening avenues for further collaborative ventures that will benefit both universities while contributing to the global academic community.

Text: Siti Faizah Abd Halim/Photo: Muhammad Taufik Abdul Rahman

USM PENANG, 18 March 2024 – Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) through its Division of Student Development Affairs and Alumni (BHEPA) today has proudly hosted the 38th IMT-GT Varsity Council Coordination Meeting Varsity Carnival, which will be held from 18 to 20 March 2024.

Established over two decades ago, the council comprises of 12 esteemed universities spanning the triangular region of Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand with the presence of a total of 60 members from the three countries.

The iconic IMT-GT renowned for its three core pillars namely sports, culture and seminars serves not only as a platform for the international university community to explore and showcase unexpected talents but also act as a powerful tool in promoting universities at the global stage.

Aims of the programme are to promote maximum benefits for students and staff development of member universities; to foster unity and utilise it as a guideline for organising activities during the IMT-GT Varsity Carnival; to strengthen the IMT-GT spirit and development through the network of students and staff of member universities; and to emphasise on the development of educational quality of member universities without any political involvement.

The opening ceremony was officiated by the USM Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Student Development Affairs and Alumni, Professor Dr. Shaharum Shamsuddin, representing the USM Vice-Chancellor.

In his officiating address, Shaharum who is also the Head of Organiser 38th Varsity Council Coordination Meeting, described the IMT-GT Varsity Carnival as a pivotal 'bridge' in uniting minds and hearts across the region.

“The IMT-GT Varsity Carnival is more than an event; it symbolises a beacon of partnership and progress.

“Let us use this platform to elevate our students, not just academically, but as global citizens who will carry forward the torch of innovation and harmony by embracing the value of sports, culture and knowledge sharing to promote solidarity and friendship among its participants,” he said.

He further urged all attendees to embrace the spirit of this gathering, forging pathways to a future replete with opportunities for the youths and driving towards shared goals and mutual successes.

Meanwhile, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Student Affairs and Alumni, Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM) cum President IMT-GT Varsity Council, Professor Dr. Ahmad Martadha Mohamed in his speech, highlighted the importance of strengthening diplomatic education of partnership and unity to prepare future generations of versatile, confident and idealistic young people.

Ahmad Martadha emphasised the significance of internationalisation programmes in stimulating global competitiveness and serving as a testing ground for skills development in the digital age of globalisation.

“The IMT-GT Council hopes for new innovations that can give a fresh injection to the implementation of this carnival in the future, especially from USM itself as the host,” he added.

Also present were the Universitas Syiah Kuala Vice-Rector Student Affairs cum Vice-President of IMT-GT Varsity Council of Indonesia, Professor Dr. Mustanir; Prince of Songkhla University Vice-President Student Development and Alumni Affairs cum Vice-President of IMT-GT Varsity Council of Thailand, Assistant Professor Dr. Wirote Youravong; IMT-GT Varsity Council Secretary-General, Asmawiza Hj. Hussin; members of IMT-GT Varsity Council and IMT-GT delegation officers.

Text: Nur Farrah Ezlin Mohd Suhaimi/Foto: Shahnizam Ab Rahim  

PENANG, 6th March 2024 - The School of Industrial Technology (PPTI), Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) recently welcomed a delegation from the Osaka Institute of Technology (OIT), Japan, in a significant international academic collaboration. From February 29th to March 6th, 2024, twelve delegates from OIT led by Professor Dr. Muraoka Masahiro, together with ten students and Miss Kitagawa Ayumi, an officer at the OIT International Centre, engaged with students from PPTI for a week-long programme brimming with educational and cultural activities. The initiative, titled "Global Harmony: Sustainable Future, Cultural Roots," was aimed at merging academic knowledge with cultural insights across the divisions at PPTI: Bioprocess Technology, Food Technology, Bioresource Technology and Environmental Technology.

Participants were immersed in a curriculum that addressed pressing global challenges such as antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and the traditional fermentation process of foods such as ‘tapai’. The programme also highlighted sustainable practices, including the use of waste as raw materials and bio composting. Beyond academic pursuits, OIT students were introduced to Malay culture, engaging in "Joget," a traditional dance, and visiting Masjid Al-Malik Khalid for a deeper understanding of Islam and the Muslim community.

Dr. Noreen Suliani Mat Nanyan, the project coordinator, commented on the success of the program, saying that, "The interaction between the students from USM and OIT has exceeded our expectations. It's been truly inspiring to see how quickly they embraced each other's cultures and knowledge. The enthusiastic participation in both the academic and cultural segments of the programme underscores the importance of such international exchanges in fostering global harmony and sustainable futures. We look forward to more such enriching experiences."

Feedback from students has been overwhelmingly positive, with many underscoring the educational and cultural richness of the programme. The hands-on activities and interactive sessions were particularly commended for their engaging and informative nature. Topics like AMR and sustainability were found to be intellectually stimulating and relevant. The cultural exchange aspects, especially learning the traditional dance and visiting the mosque, were praised for promoting understanding and appreciation among the students.

The collaborative effort between USM and OIT is hailed as a resounding success, contributing significantly to cross-cultural dialogue, academic enrichment, and the forging of lasting international connections.

Text by: Japareng Lalung

USM PENANG, 19 March 2024 - Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) through the National Advanced IPv6 Centre (NAv6) recently marks a significant milestone in its collaborative journey involving government, industry, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and academia by organising a dialogue session entitled ‘Leveraging Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Data Transformation for a Sustainable Net-Zero Future,’ supported by the Royal Academy of Engineering.

Aligned with the Penang state government's agenda, the programme has brought together 60 participants from the government, industry, NGOs and academia with the aim of exploring innovations and technologies to safeguard the environment through scientific advancements.

The event was graced with the presence of the Member of the Penang State Executive Council (Infrastructure, Transport, and Digital), YB Zairil Khir Johari.

In his officiating address, Zairil Khir emphasised the critical importance of Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) data at the state level, recognising the necessity for high-quality statistics in measuring and monitoring SDG progress.

He underscored the state government's commitment to data transformation, highlighting the pivotal role of advanced technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Advanced Data Analytics.

“These technologies not only provide unprecedented insights into our complex environment, but they also empower us to formulate data-driven strategies to reduce climate risks and foster resilience,” he said.

Zairil Khir also urged organisations to harness the power of technology for the betterment of the planet and future generations, advocating for increased collaboration, innovation attraction in Penang, and resource optimisation.

NAv6 Director, Associate Professor Dr. Selvakumar Manickam highlighted that there are many siloed systems, with everyone creating their own solutions.

“It is important for entities to undergo digital transformation, as there is a collective realisation that by working together, we can more effectively address issues such as climate change,” he said.

The programme featured guest speakers from diverse industries who deliberated on climate change mitigation, cross-sectoral collaboration, challenges, opportunities, and strategies for utilising technology to address pressing environmental concerns and drive sustainable development.

Throughout the session, it became evident that decarbonisation holds paramount importance for both the public and private sectors.

Therefore, the exchange of data and collaboration among government, industry, and academia are essential in implementing effective strategies and addressing complex environmental challenges.

Also present at the session was the programme chairperson and senior lecturer at NAv6, Dr. Chong Yung Wey. 

Text: Nur Farrah Ezlin Mohd Suhaimi/Photo: IPv6 USM

USM PENANG, 4 April 2024 – Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) has successfully retained its recognition as a self-accrediting university accorded by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) until 2027.

The news was well received with pride and joy by the entire USM community.

The confirmation was conveyed in writing by the MQA Chief Executive Officer to USM Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dato’ Seri Ir. Dr. Abdul Rahman Mohamed, along with the Certificate of Self-Accreditation Status.

This accolade was given following an audit conducted by MQA, which evaluated USM’s strengths and areas requiring attention.

MQA congratulated USM on this achievement and expressed hope that the audit results would assist the university in its future planning endeavors.

USM was granted self-accreditation status by MQA on 29 April 2010, making it eligible to accredit its academic programmes internally based on the Malaysian Qualifications Framework (MQF) and standards set by MQA and the Ministry of Higher Education (MoHE) from time to time, except for professional programmes requiring accreditation from relevant professional bodies.

However, as a self-accrediting university, MQA conducts Institutional Audits every five years to retain this status. The audit process is carried out through the Code of Practice for Institutional Audit (COPIA) and Code of Practice for Program Accreditation (COPPA).

Reflecting on the recent audits, USM underwent Compliance Self-Audit on 8, 9, and 14 February 2022, followed by a subsequent Audit on 17 August 2023, to ensure compliance with self-accreditation criteria.

Following the completion of these audits, USM successfully retained its self-accreditation status effective from 25 March 2024 until 2027.

The university extends its gratitude to the USM Self-Accreditation Centre, led by its Director, Professor Dr. Azura A Rashid, and all PTJs/departments involved in the audit process.

Text: Tan Ewe Hoe

USM PENANG, 17 April 2024 - Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dato’ Seri Ir. Dr. Abdul Rahman Mohamed today welcomed a distinguished delegation from Suzhou City University (SZCU) and Asia China Education and Culture Association (ACEC), led by SZCU President, Professor Dr. Zhao Zhihong.

The purpose of the visit was for SZCU to introduce their Visiting Expert Programme and share insights into their ongoing industry-education integration project, as well as to announce the launch of the SZCU-USM Global Study Centre. 

Since the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in October 2023, both institutions have cultivated a robust and fruitful relationship.

Abdul Rahman expressed his delight at the visit, citing it as yet another milestone in the journey of mutual cooperation and friendship.

He emphasised the potential for such partnerships to elevate academic and research excellence, foster cultural understanding, and drive societal development.

“I am confident that the discussions and interactions between our institutions will then lead to new and impactful collaborations,” he said.

He added by saying that USM has always been committed to fostering a vibrant and inclusive academic environment, and together, both parties can continue to make a positive impact on the students, institutions, and communities.

Zhao Zhihong underscored the shared responsibility of SZCU and USM as significant research and educational entities in their respective nations.

He outlined plans to actively promote projects such as student exchanges and industry-university research cooperation, particularly focusing on areas like the digital economy and green development.

In aligning with these aspirations, ACEC Regional Executive Director, Yang Cheng Cheng, expressed hope for increased collaboration, emphasizing the importance of expert exchanges from USM.

Following these remarks, the meeting proceeded with a focused discussion on future collaborations. Representatives from various schools and departments exchanged insights, highlighting their respective strengths and proposing strategies to bolster the partnership.

Also present were the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research and Innovation, Exercising the Function of USM Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic and International, Professor Dr. Habibah A Wahab; deans and principal officers of USM, SZCU and ACEC.

Text: Nur Farrah Ezlin Mohd Suhaimi/Photo: Mohd Fairus Md Isa

PETALING JAYA, 13 March 2024 – Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), through the School of Health Sciences (PPSK) and Centre for Global Archaeological Research (PPAG), recently has established a groundbreaking partnership with the Malaysian Genomics Resource Centre Berhad (MGRC).

This collaboration, marked by the signing of two Memorandums of Agreement (MoA), is poised to unravel the genetic secrets and historical chronicles of the Penang Woman.

The first MoA focuses on an in-depth study of the Penang Woman genetics, involving the extraction and analysis of genetic materials.

Through this collaboration, USM will provide materials and technical assistance, while MGRC Therapeutics will handle genomic DNA extraction and sequencing, along with funding support.

Joint responsibilities include preparing a research report, sharing knowledge, and co-authoring a peer-reviewed publication.

Parallel to this, the second MoA is dedicated to determining the age of the ancient Penang Woman skeleton using the Accelerator Mass Spectrometry (AMS) Dating technique, alongside conducting Optically Stimulated Luminescence dating on Guar Kepah pottery.

USM's expertise in AMS dating will be utilised, with funding support from MGRC, as both parties will engage in data analysis, interpretation, and co-authoring a manuscript for peer-reviewed publication, contributing significantly to the understanding of human history in the region.

Signing on behalf of PPSK USM was the Dean, Professor Dr. Wan Rosli Wan Ishak and on behalf of PPAG USM was its Director, Professor Dr. Stephen Chia Ming Soon, representing the Vice-Chancellor, while on behalf of MGRC was its Executive Chairman, Azri Azerai.

Azri expressed enthusiasm about the collaborations, stating, "These research collaborations with USM are not just about delving into the past; they represent an exciting convergence of history, science, and technology.”

“By uncovering the genetic and historical narratives of Penang Woman, we're not only contributing to the academic and scientific community but also enhancing the brand awareness and technical prowess of MGRC.

“This venture into the unknown underscores our commitment to pushing the boundaries of what's possible in genomics and biopharmaceuticals," he said.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Edinur Hisham Atan, from the USM School of Health Sciences, is the Principal Investigator for The Genetics of Penang Woman project, while USM PPAG Dr. Suresh A/l Narayanen is the Principal Investigator for Determining the Age of the Ancient Penang Woman Skeleton using AMS Dating Project.

This collaboration signifies a synergy of expertise and resources, promising groundbreaking insights into the genetic and historical aspects of the Penang Woman, further enriching the scientific and archaeological knowledge of the region.

Text: Nur Farrah Ezlin Mohd Suhaimi  

USM PENANG, 11 March 2023 – The Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) Institute for Research in Molecular Medicine (INFORMM) and USM-RIKEN Interdisciplinary Collaboration on Advanced Sciences (URICAS) held the USM-RIKEN International Conference on Advanced Sciences on 26-27 February 2024.

The two-day conference continues from the last year’s theme(link: https://news.usm.my/index.php/english-news/8626-usm-riken-uricas-symposium-returns-dwells-on-advanced-science-research) on ‘Advancing Science for a Sustainable Future: Bridging Physics and Life Science’.

The conference brought together four keynote and 24 invited speakers from Japan (Sophia University, Kitasato University, and Shibaura Institute of Technology), RIKEN and USM.

Attending the programme was the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research and Innovation, Professor Dr. Habibah A Wahab, who represented the USM Vice-Chancellor to officiate the conference as well as being the main keynote speaker.

In her opening remarks, Habibah highlighted that the USM-RIKEN relationship had passed the 30^th year mark, and had benefited USM students immensely as the collaboration had graduated 30 full long-term IPA (International Programme Associate) PhD students and 23 short-term IPA students in various disciplines, since the programme began in 2002.

“The new challenges facing all of us – climate change, pandemics, resource scarcity – demand solutions bigger than any one nation or discipline can offer. And by working together, we can achieve even more,” said Habibah.

RIKEN Executive Director for International Affairs, Dr. Makiko Naka conveyed her message through a recorded video. She emphasised the long-term collaborations that had benefited both USM and RIKEN.

Meanwhile, RIKEN URICAS Coordinator, Dr Hiroshi Ohno said that he was very pleased USM hosted the conference again this year and he hoped that the meeting will provide a new boost for the renewed URICAS in the coming years.

The conference was attended by more than one hundred participants on site and on Webex online, which is an indication of the growing demand for an interdisciplinary themed conference.

This year’s conference also saw the participation of academicians and researchers from other local universities.

Presenters shared various aspects of the latest research from their groups, and a few speakers also highlighted the applications of machine learning (artificial intelligence) in fundamental research, such as for studying particle physics and cellular morphology.

Also present at the conference were the Deputy Director of INFORMM, Assoc. Professor Dr. Tye Gee Jun; URICAS Advisor, Professor Dr. Sudesh Kumar, FASc; Chairperson of the URICAS Conference, Dr. Eugene Ong Boon Beng; Co-Chairperson of the URICAS Conference, Assoc. Professor Dr. Badrul Hisham Yahaya; academicians, research officers and university officials.

The URICAS programmes have continued to benefit both institutions through the exchange of talent, expertise, knowledge through student attachments and annual meetings.

For details visit the conference website: uricas.usm.my/conference.

Text & Photo: INFORMM, USM/Editing: Tan Ewe Hoe

USM PENANG, 12 March 2024 - Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dato’ Seri Ir. Dr. Abdul Rahman Mohamed today welcomed a distinguished delegation from Rajamangala University of Technology Srivijaya (RUTS), led by its President, Professor Dr. Suwat Tanyaros, which is on a courtesy visit today.

During the meeting, Abdul Rahman expressed his pleasure in saying that USM is delighted to host the esteemed guests and long-standing partner. Since the inception of the first Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in 2011, both universities have nurtured a robust and fruitful relationship.

“Today's visit stands as a testament to the enduring strength of our friendship and our shared dedication to academic and research excellence. The sustained growth and prosperity of our collaboration have played a pivotal role in advancing cultural understanding and societal development," he added.

Suwat then followed, by stating that this provided an overview on how RUTS envisions working closely with USM, extending an opportunity to explore future cooperation in education and other domains.

“I believe that this partnership has truly flourished, showcasing the commitment of both institutions to academic and research excellence. The continuous growth of our collaboration reflects its instrumental role in promoting access to expertise, learning opportunities and sharing of knowledge," said Suwat.

The meeting then continued with a short discussion between both parties, discussing on future collaborations whereby the representatives of selected schools and departments offered insights, showcasing each department’s strengths and proposing strategies to fortify the partnership.

The exchange of ideas and proposals is anticipated to pave the way for innovative and impactful collaborations between USM and RUTS in the coming years.

Also present were the USM Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dato’ Gs. Dr. Narimah Samat; RUTS Assistant to President (International Affairs), Dr. Lamun Kayurin; International Strategic Coordinator of USM Division of Academic and International, Professor Dr. Hazizan Md. Akil; deans and principal officers of USM and RUTS.

Text: Nur Farrah Ezlin Mohd Suhaimi/Photo & Infographic: Shahnizam Ab Rahim & Mohamad Zaidi Jaini 

TOKYO, JAPAN, 24 March 2024 – Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Shizenkan University in Tokyo, Japan.

The MoU was signed between the Dean of the Graduate School of Business (GSB), Associate Professor Dr. Fathyah Hashim who represented USM, and Professor Katsuhiko Yoshikawa, Vice President of Shizenkan University.

The endorsement from both parties symbolised a shared commitment towards nurturing collaborative endeavours in various domains of academia, as well as cross-cultural exchange and global citizenship.

The key collaborative areas highlighted as part of the MoU include networking activities (among faculty members, researchers, and students), research collaborations, student and researcher exchange programmes (international academic mobility), symposiums and conferences, and teaching and learning initiatives.

Following the MoU signing ceremony, an event to kick-off the Pan-Asian Business School Network also took place, marking an immediate outcome of this collaboration.

At this event, Fathyah delivered a keynote speech on "Sustainability Leadership from an Asian Perspective" in a hybrid forum.

The MoU signed between USM and Shizenkan University represents a new beginning in the pursuit of academic excellence and international collaboration between the two institutions.

Also present were key officials from both universities.

Text & Photo: GSB USM/Editing: Mazlan Hanafi Basharudin