USM PENANG, 14 August 2023 – Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) has recently taken steps to strengthen its ties with Management and Science University (MSU) through the renewal signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).

The MoU marked a continuation of ties between USM and a leading private university in Malaysia that was established eleven years earlier in 2012.

This agreement will allow both parties to collaborate in four key areas, namely;

1. Collaboration in health sciences and medical sciences programme;
2. Exploring further the offering of double and dual-degree programmes;
3. Identifying research areas and matching grants; and
4. To work with USM in enriching Sustainable Development Goals (SDG-related) activities at MSU.

Signing on behalf of USM was its Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dato’ Ir. Dr. Abdul Rahman Mohamed, while MSU was represented by its President, Professor Tan Sri Dato’ Wira Dr. Mohd Shukri Ab. Yajid.

The signing took place on 9 August 2023, at the MSU main campus in Seksyen 13, Shah Alam.

Abdul Rahman expressed USM's wholehearted embrace of the collaborative partnership with MSU, who emphasised that by joining forces, both institutions could better contribute to the advancement of the SDGs.

He highlighted that this strategic partnership envisions a comprehensive approach, involving cross-disciplinary efforts in interdisciplinary research, talent development, knowledge exchange and innovative initiatives.

"The merging of expertise from both institutions holds the potential to make significant strides in addressing the challenges laid out by the SDGs, in ensuring a more sustainable and equitable future for everyone," said Abdul Rahman.

He added by saying that it is hoped that both parties would continue to initiate efforts and collaborate to identify individuals with specialized expertise in specific areas.

Meanwhile, Mohd Shukri said that this MoU is aimed to establish a framework for fostering and enhancing cross-disciplinary collaboration between MSU and USM.

“The idea is always on how we (a public university and a private university) can work together to improve and to move our education to the next level. This MoU will serve as a conduit for facilitating shared purposes and multitude areas of common interest through interdisciplinary research and innovation activities, nurturing and managing talents; advancing and exchanging the knowledge and expertise; developing student success and pioneering efforts which are aligned with the SDGs for a sustainable future,” said Mohd Shukri.

Both parties look forward to carrying out the activities identified and to support one another in bringing impact to the community.

Also present were the MSU Vice-Chancellor, Professor Puan Sri Datuk Dr. Junainah Abd Hamid; USM Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research and Innovation, Professor Dr. Habibah A Wahab and the entire MSU top management.

Text: Nur Farrah Ezlin Mohd Suhaimi/Photo: Mohd Fairus Md Isa