USM PENANG, 24 October 2025 — Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), through its Building Engineering Technology Programme (BEsT) under the School of Housing, Building and Planning (HBP), has further strengthened its international collaboration with Indonesia’s Universitas Negeri Malang (UM) via the Inbound Global Outreach Programme, held from 23 to 24 October 2025 at the USM campus.

The two-day programme, led by Project Director Dr. Ariza Sharikin Abu Bakar, alongside Assoc. Prof. Ts. Dr. Noor Faisal Abas and Ts. Dr. Noor Halizah Abdullah, who also serves as the Programme Chairman for BEsT, brought together academic staff and final-year students from both institutions to promote academic exchange, community engagement, and cross-cultural learning.

The opening ceremony was officiated by HBP Deputy Dean (Academic, Career & International), Gs. Dr. Mohd Ismail Isa, who commended the initiative as a model for meaningful academic collaboration, which is aligned with the university’s globalisation and sustainability agenda.

Throughout the event, participants were engaged in a series of academic sessions, including Final-Year Project (FYP) presentations and roundtable discussions between lecturers from both universities.

The dialogues focused on curriculum enhancement, collaborative research, and future joint initiatives in building engineering and technology — reinforcing a shared commitment to academic excellence and sustainable development.

The second day highlighted USM’s University Social Responsibility (USR) initiatives with a visit to the Centre for Marine and Coastal Studies (CEMACS), the USM marine research centre which is located within Penang National Park.

Participants took part in the installation of an Early Jellyfish Attack Treatment Station, aimed at promoting marine safety and raising awareness of sustainability issues. They also participated in dormitory cleaning activities and explored the coastal and marine ecosystems via a guided educational tour.

The collaborative effort underscored the dedication of the BEsT academic team in advancing USM’s vision of integrating education, community service, and sustainability.

Beyond academic collaboration, the programme also enriched students’ global exposure, leadership capabilities, and environmental consciousness while strengthening professional networks among lecturers from both institutions.

At a broader level, the initiative reaffirms HBP’s and USM’s commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in promoting quality education, environmental stewardship, and global partnerships, in line with USM’s mission of Transforming Higher Education for a Sustainable Tomorrow.

Text and Photo: Weerda Aini Natasha Johari & Dr. Ariza Sharikin Abu Bakar