Photos Muhammad Iqbal Roslan
SINTOK, 2 November 2025: Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM) concluded its successful International Faculty Exchange Week (IFEX @ UUM 2025) with a meaningful dinner, held at Angsana Hall, EDC-UUM. The evening marked the culmination of a week that celebrated international collaboration, academic exchange, and the strengthening of global academic partnerships.
Throughout the week, the Centre for International Affairs and Cooperation (CIAC) coordinated a series of vibrant academic and cultural activities, making this IFEX edition one of the busiest and most engaging yet. The programme brought together 22 visiting professors and lecturers from 8 countries, hosted by 11 UUM schools, who immersed themselves in a wide range of activities — including lectures, seminars, research talks, faculty visits, and community outreach (CSR) engagements. Their presence and participation transformed Sintok into a hub of intellectual collaboration and intercultural learning, reflecting UUM’s commitment to fostering global academic excellence.
Representing the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Dr. Harlida Abdul Wahab, Assistant Vice-Chancellor of the College of Law, Government, and International Studies (COLGIS), and Dean of the School of Law, delivered the closing remarks on behalf of Yang Berbahagia Prof. Dato’ Dr. Mohd Foad Sakdan, Vice-Chancellor of UUM. In his address, Prof. Foad expressed heartfelt appreciation to all who contributed to the success of IFEX 2025 — particularly CIAC, the Human Resources Department, participating Deans and Deputy Deans, as well as the dedicated UUM host lecturers who warmly welcomed the visiting scholars.
“Through your teaching, research collaborations, and cultural engagements, you have transformed our campus into a truly global classroom. You have inspired our students, energised our faculty, and reminded us that knowledge flourishes best when it is shared across borders,” he conveyed in his message.
The Vice-Chancellor’s remarks also highlighted the continued growth and importance of IFEX as a key internationalisation initiative of the university. From its beginnings in 2023 with just seven visiting professors from Indonesia, the programme has grown into a flagship UUM event that embodies the university’s aspiration to build meaningful global partnerships and advance Malaysia’s higher education goals under the Malaysia MADANI framework.
Earlier in the evening, Assoc. Prof. Dr Arpah Abu Bakar, Director of CIAC, delivered an uplifting address, reflecting on the week’s success and the collaborative spirit that defined it. She described IFEX 2025 as a dynamic and fulfilling experience that went beyond academic exchange to foster genuine friendship and mutual understanding among international and local academics.
“This year’s IFEX has been truly memorable. Over the past week, our visiting professors have shared knowledge, explored research possibilities, and built connections that extend beyond academic exchange,” she said. “IFEX is not merely a programme — it is a bridge that connects minds, cultures, and aspirations. It is a celebration of knowledge, diversity, and friendship.”
Representing the visiting professors, Dr. Luz Suplico Jeong expressed her deep appreciation to UUM for its warmth, professionalism, and hospitality. She noted that the experience had been both intellectually stimulating and personally enriching, praising UUM for providing a supportive environment that fostered learning and collaboration.
The evening’s highlights included the presentation of programme certificates to visiting professors and host representatives, followed by a video montage capturing the week’s memorable moments. The dinner provided a warm, joyful setting for participants to celebrate their achievements and reflect on the meaningful connections they had formed throughout the programme.
In his closing message, Prof. Foad reminded participants that IFEX represents more than an exchange — it is a lasting commitment to international collaboration and shared growth.
“The connections made this week must continue to grow through joint research, student mobility, academic innovation, and continuous dialogue. Together, we have shown that internationalisation is not just about mobility — it is about humanity, shared purpose, and collective growth,” he said.
The diners were entertained by special Cultural Performances, showcasing the rich heritage, vibrant spirit, and cultural diversity of Malaysia. All the performances are proudly presented by talented UUM students.
The evening concluded with shared laughter, gratitude, and optimism, as visiting scholars and hosts reaffirmed their commitment to continuing their collaboration on future academic initiatives. The dinner was not just a closing event — it was a celebration of partnership, respect, and global friendship.
The International Faculty Exchange Week (IFEX @ UUM 2025) is a flagship internationalisation initiative by the Centre for International Affairs and Cooperation (CIAC) in collaboration with the UUM Human Resource Department. The 2025 edition welcomed 22 visiting professors and lecturers from 8 countries, hosted by 11 UUM schools, who participated in a range of lectures, seminars, workshops, visits, and CSR programmes. The initiative reflects UUM’s strong commitment to “Internationalisation at Home” — bringing global perspectives directly to campus and enriching the academic and cultural experiences of its community. – Assoc. Prof. Ts. Dr. Norliza Katuk
