Delegates from China University of Political Science and Law (CUPL) visited UTAR Sungai Long Campus on 23 December 2016.

The delegates from CUPL consisted of its President Prof Huang Jin, College of Comparative Law Dean Prof Gao Xiang, International Office Director prof Xu Lan, Campus Development Office Director Mr Jin Longhe, and Institute for State Governance Secretary General Prof Li Zheng.

Receiving the guests were UTAR President Ir Prof Academician Dato’ Dr Chuah Hean Teik, Vice President for Internationalisation and Academic Development Prof Ir Dr Ewe Hong Tat, Division of Community and International Networking Director Prof Dr Cheng Ming Yu, Centre for International Studies Director Dr Leong Mun Yoon, Faculty of Accountancy and Management (FAM) Dean Dr Sia Bee Chuan, Faculty of Creative Industries (FCI) Dean Dr Chin Yee Mun, Institute of Chinese Studies Deputy Dean for Academic Development and Undergraduate Programmes Assoc Prof Dr Tee Boon Chuan, FCI Dr Ho Ying Chan, FAM Dr Tan Pei Meng, and FAM Specialist Lee Sim Kuen.

Emphasising UTAR’s effort in promoting international academic interactions, Prof Chuah said, “UTAR is continuously expanding its connections with other higher learning institutions across the globe. Currently, we have signed memoranda of understanding (MoUs) with 147 universities and colleges, including 34 from mainland China. Besides, we highly encourage our staff and students to participate in exchange and overseas internship programmes for more dynamic international interactions.”

Prof Huang enthused, “We found out that UTAR is one of the best private universities in Malaysia and it has great potential for important academic collaborations. Therefore, UTAR is the first university we visit in Malaysia and I am impressed by the rapid growth of this young university. I truly anticipate our partnership with UTAR that will bring about more opportunities in the future.”

On behalf of CUPL, Prof Huang proposed the setup of a joint centre between UTAR and CUPL. “The joint centre could be a centre for Malaysia-China studies to be located at both universities and function as resource hubs that allow active information and resource exchanges.” 

Prof Chuah consented to the proposal and said, “The establishment of the joint centre is certainly a good idea that would lead to closer cooperation with CUPL. I hope the joint centre can also be an extensive resource centre that provides useful information to professional bodies and researchers about China and Malaysia.”

The official decisions on the joint centre will be discussed through the signing of an MoU with CUPL.

The presidents discussing the setup of a joint centre

Prof Chuah (left) and Prof Huang exchanging souvenirs