USM PENANG, 19 May 2026 - The Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) Graduate School of Business (GSB), recently received a delegation from Krirk University, Bangkok, Thailand, in conjunction with the 'Malaysia-Thailand Cultural Visit: Exploring Sustainable Leadership and Cultural Integrity'.

The Krirk University delegation comprised of one staff member and five students.

The seven-day international mobility programme, from 20 to 26 April 2026, was designed to provide participants with meaningful exposure to the academic environment at USM, the business and industrial landscape in Malaysia, and the rich cultural heritage of Penang.

According to the Dean of GSB USM, Associate Professor Dr. Fathyah Hashim, "Through this programme, GSB USM successfully strengthened academic cooperation and friendship with Krirk University, thereby supporting USM's continuous efforts to promote internationalisation, expand global engagement, and highlight academic excellence at the international level.

Throughout the programme, a self-directed learning approach through direct experience was used, enabling participants to interact directly with academic, industrial, community, and cultural environments.

The combination of academic sessions, campus engagement, industry and community visits, cultural activities, and heritage exploration was aimed to enhance cross-cultural understanding, encourage global perspectives, and strengthen international academic networks.

Among the programme itinerary were themed lectures at GSB USM, campus tours, and visits to selected industry and community locations.

Participants also had the opportunity to explore Penang's cultural and historical attractions such as George Town, Kek Lok Si Temple, and Penang Hill.

The programme concluded with cultural activities, reflection sessions, participant presentations, and a closing and appreciation ceremony at GSB.

Penang was chosen as the programme location because of its position as a centre of education, trade, industry, and world heritage, as well as its reputation as a conducive international learning destination.

This initiative provided a platform that enriched participants' experience in understanding Malaysia's higher education system, local business models, the industrial environment, and the country's multicultural society.

Original Text & Photo: Dr. Chin Phaik Nie, Graduate School of Business, USM/Translation: Mazlan Hanafi Basharudin