UUM Kuala Lumpur Campus explores collaboration with Vinayaka Mission’s Research Foundation, India
News and photos Dr. Nursafwah Tugiman
KUALA LUMPUR, 12 July 2026: Universiti Utara Malaysia Kuala Lumpur Campus (UUMKL) recently hosted a preliminary meeting with a representative from Vinayaka Mission’s Research Foundation (VMRF), India, to explore potential avenues for future academic and research collaboration.
Held at UUMKL, the meeting brought together Deputy Director of International Relations at VMRF, Mr Sandeep Syamala, and representatives from UUMKL comprising the Dean, Associate Professor Dr Nik Adzrieman; MSc (Management) Programme Chair, Associate Professor Dr Indraah Kolandaisamy; Dr Nabilaa Mohamed; and Marketing Officer, Ms Irdina Iwana.
The discussion focused on establishing a strategic partnership to enhance academic excellence through collaborative research, student and staff mobility programmes, joint publications, knowledge exchange, and other mutually beneficial academic initiatives.
The meeting provided a valuable platform for both institutions to exchange ideas, identify common research interests, and explore collaborative opportunities that would benefit students, academics, and the wider community. During the discussion, Mr Sandeep highlighted the potential for a reciprocal immersion programme between the two institutions, alongside collaborative research in management that would strengthen academic engagement, promote knowledge exchange, and generate meaningful outcomes for researchers and students alike.
Commenting on the initiative, Dean of UUM Kuala Lumpur Campus, Associate Professor Dr Nik Adzrieman, said the proposed collaboration with Vinayaka Mission’s Research Foundation represents another significant milestone in UUMKL’s internationalisation agenda.
“Building on our existing collaborations with universities in countries such as Indonesia, Uzbekistan, and other strategic partner nations, we are confident that this partnership will create new opportunities for academic and research collaboration, student and staff mobility, and knowledge exchange.
“More importantly, it will strengthen UUM’s presence in India and pave the way for broader collaborations with higher education institutions across the country,” he said.
Both UUM Kuala Lumpur Campus and Vinayaka Mission’s Research Foundation reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening institutional ties and expressed their enthusiasm for continuing discussions towards formalising a strategic partnership. The proposed collaboration is expected to contribute to academic excellence, innovation, and global engagement while creating lasting benefits for both institutions.
The meeting marked an important first step towards establishing a long-term partnership that will further enhance UUM’s international network, global reputation, and commitment to meaningful cross-border academic collaboration.
