PENANG, September 2014 - Malaysia and Thailand further strengthened their existing ties through the 7^th Malaysia-Thailand University Games (MTUG) 2014 which was held at Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) recently.

"I believe that with the recognition from the governments of both countries, we will be able to promote student intellectualism and skills development in sports and culture consistently," said USM Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dato' Dr. Omar Osman at the opening ceremony of the carnival at the Equatorial Hotel.

"I also hope that both parties will work more closely to achieve its objectives that are to strengthen the relationship, and establish network and collaboration between the two neighbouring countries," added the Vice-Chancellor.

He further added that through the MAS-THAI Games which has started in 2008, a deeper understanding and appreciation of each country’s background, culture, tradition and practices can be developed, that will contribute towards building a more sustainable ASEAN community.

Meanwhile, according to the Deputy Secretary-General, Office of the Higher Education Commission, Ministry of Education, Thailand, Varaporn Seehanath, such programme could further highlight the potential and talent of an athlete at the international level.

"The Thai government strongly encouraged all its students to participate in an event like this," added Varaporn.

More than 150 athletes were sent by Malaysia and Thailand to compete in four sports including petanque (men/women), rugby, futsal (women) and golf (student/VIP) as well as cultural performances presented by the students of higher learning institutions.

This annual event was organised by the Ministry of Education Malaysia (MoE) and USM was appointed to host the event this year.

Also present were the Chairman of USM Board of Governors, Tan Sri Datuk Dr. Zulkefli A. Hassan; the Secretary General, Office of the Higher Education Commission, Ministry of Education Thailand, Associate Professor Dr. Kamjorn Tatiyakavee; the Chairman of MTUG Committee, Professor Dr. Adnan Hussein and Secretary, Sub Sports Division, Higher Education Sector, Ministry of Education Malaysia, Hazally Jali and the principal officers of MoE, USM and the Thai government. – Translation: Tan Ewe Hoe/Text: Nor Rafizah Md Zain/Photo: Mohd Fairus Md Isa