USM PENANG, 15 February 2025 – Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) had the privilege of hosting a delegation of 18 European Union (EU) member state ambassadors to Malaysia, led by the EU Ambassador to Malaysia, His Excellency Rafael Daerr.

The visit served as a platform for meaningful discussions on potential educational collaborations between USM and European institutions.

Held at the University Conference Hall yesterday, the event brought together key representatives from both USM and the EU, facilitating dialogue on international academic cooperation.

The delegation included ambassadors and representatives from Croatia, Germany, Romania, Austria, Spain, the Netherlands, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Slovenia, Greece, Poland, Ireland, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Sweden, Finland, Bulgaria, and Belgium.

In his welcoming address, Professor Dr. Azlan Amran, Exercising the Function of the USM Vice-Chancellor, highlighted the significance of international partnerships in higher education.

He stated, “At USM, we strongly believe in the power of international partnerships to advance education, research, and innovation.”

“Our collaborations with esteemed institutions across the EU have played a vital role in fostering academic excellence, cross-cultural exchanges, and pioneering research.”

“These partnerships have provided our students and faculty with invaluable opportunities, such as student exchange initiatives and Erasmus+ activities, which enrich learning experiences and broaden global perspectives,” he added.

Azlan also gave an update on the number of students as well as the academic staff from the EU countries who are currently at the University. 

“There are a total of eight students from Germany (2 students), Ireland (1), the Netherlands (1), Spain (1), Sweden (2), and Malta (1), and two faculty members from Belgium, one each from Germany and France.

“The students bring with them diverse perspectives, enriching our university community and fostering a truly global learning environment.

“The faculty members play a vital role in strengthening our university’s international outlook and in further enhancing the quality of education and research at USM," he added.

As part of the programme, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research & Innovation, Professor Dr. Habibah A Wahab highlighted USM’s research collaborations with EU partners, while the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic & International, Professor Dato’ Gs. Dr. Narimah Samat provided insights into academic partnerships and Erasmus+ initiatives with EU institutions through two key presentations.

The engagement was further enriched by the presence of faculty deans, some of whom engaged in direct discussions with the EU ambassadors to explore specific collaboration prospects.

This visit marks an important step in strengthening ties between USM and the EU, paving the way for enhanced academic and research cooperation in the years to come.

Text: Mohd Amirullah Zainal Abidin, Division of Academic & International USM /Editing: Shafinaz Md Ismail/Photos: Mohd Fairus Md Isa & Muhammad Faris Darwisy Mohammad Rafiq