USM PENANG, 21 April 2026 – Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) has taken another significant step in advancing its internationalisation agenda through a strategic visit to the Harbin Institute of Technology (HIT), one of China’s most prestigious research-intensive universities.

The delegation, led by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research and Innovation, Professor Dr. Habibah A Wahab, included the Dean of the School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Professor Ir. Ts. Dr. Shahrel Azmin Sundi @ Suandi; Dean of the School of Aerospace Engineering, Associate Professor Dr. Elmi Abu Bakar, along with academic staff from both schools.

During the visit from 10–11 April 2026, the USM team engaged in high-level discussions with HIT leadership and faculty, including Professor Liu Ting (Vice President); Professor Wu Jian (Executive Deputy Director, International Cooperation Division and Director of Global Affairs Office); Professor Qi Jiaran (Assistant Dean, School of Electronics and Information Engineering); Professor Zhi Xiyang (Vice Dean, School of Astronautics); and four other deans from various schools.

The dialogue focused on identifying high-impact opportunities for collaboration in research and academic programmes.

Both institutions agreed to implement at least two joint initiatives in 2026, while laying the groundwork for academic programme collaborations in 2027.

Key areas of cooperation include:

• Student internships with industry partners in Malaysia and China
• Joint research projects in Electrical & Electronic Engineering and Aerospace Engineering
• Exploration of a 2+2 academic programme to enhance student mobility
• Development of an MSc (Mixed-Mode) programme spearheaded by USM’s School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, with potential HIT collaboration.

This partnership reflects USM’s commitment to fostering global academic networks and delivering impactful outcomes for students, researchers, and industry partners.

Structured follow-up discussions and implementation planning will ensure the initiatives translate into tangible benefits for both institutions.

Text: Professor Ir. Ts. Dr. Shahrel Azmin Sundi @ Suandi, School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, USM/Editing: Tan Ewe Hoe