SINTOK, 24 February 2025: The ASEAN Student Mobility Programme Familiarization Visit & Winter Exchange @UUM which concluded yesterday is anticipated to enhance educational cooperation, foster cross-border academic collaboration and enrich cultural exchanges among ASEAN students, aligning with the region’s integration aspirations.
Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM) Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic and International), Prof. Dr Mohd Azizuddin Mohd Sani said that this programme demonstrates the commitment of Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM) to advancing the internationalization agenda set by the Ministry of Higher Education (MoHE).
He noted that the initiative is also in alignment with the Master Plan for ASEAN Connectivity (MPAC) 2025, which seeks to enhance people-to-people ties among ASEAN member countries.
He further reiterated that student mobility plays an important role in realising this vision, which encourages ASEAN member countries to increase intra-ASEAN student exchanges and strengthen higher education collaboration across the region.
“UUM is not merely an institution of higher learning. It serves as a nurturing environment where curiosity is fostered, friendships are forged, and future leaders are shaped. As the university continues its mission to shape future leaders, UUM remains steadfast in its commitment to providing a holistic education that integrates academic excellence, global engagement, and industry collaboration.
“I hope that students will effectively apply the knowledge, experiences and relationships they have built here upon their return to their home countries. They are not merely visitors to UUM but they also ambassadors, conveying the spirit of UUM to their communities, friends and families,” he said at the ASEAN Student Mobility Programme Familiarization Visit & Winter Exchange @UUM at Tan Sri Othman Hall.
Meanwhile, the Director of the Centre for International Affairs and Cooperation (CIAC), Assoc. Prof. Dr. Arpah Abu Bakar said that this programme extends beyond academic and cultural exchange but also serves as a test of resilience, adaptability, and the ability to venture beyond one’s comfort zone.
She said the students have demonstrated that mobility encompasses more than mere physical relocation. It involves personal development, learning and building lifelong relationships.
She also strongly encouraged students to take advantage of the knowledge they have acquired for future use.
“Always connect, collaborate and utilize this experience as a stepping stone to greater opportunities.
“Students are now part of the broader ASEAN network and your journey does not end here, it is just the beginning,” she said.
A total of 60 students from ASEAN countries participated in this mobility programme, with UUM, through CIAC, being designated to lead the ASEAN Student Mobility Programme. This initiative coincided with the ASEAN Universities Exhibition and Forum 2025 (AEF2025), organised by Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS) on 24 and 25 February 2025.
