Magallanes World Study Tour 3.0 steps into sustainable future

The Magallanes World Study Tour (MWST) 3.0 commenced at its first station at Hiroshima University (HU) on 5 November 2024, via Zoom.

It was a virtual study tour organised by the UTAR Office of International Affairs in collaboration with seven universities, namely Beijing Jiaotong University, FH Münster University of Applied Sciences, Hiroshima University, Manchester Metropolitan University, Universiti Malaysia Sarawak, University of Ottawa and University of Taipei. These universities hosted a total of eight stations from 5 November 2024 to 4 December 2024, at no cost.

This year’s theme, Discover Urban Nature: Step into a Sustainable Future, addressed the importance of green and sustainable cities in reducing environmental impact and improving quality of life.

Prof Goi during his speech

Officiating the launch of MWST 3.0, UTAR Vice President for Internationalisation and Academic Development Ir Prof Dr Goi Bok Min said, “This year’s tour is about more than visiting these places virtually; it’s about learning from global ideas that address some of the biggest challenges of our time. Today’s world faces pressing issues such as climate change, rapid urbanisation and resource scarcity, making sustainable urban development essential not only for the environment but for the quality of life and well-being of communities. Each stop on this tour brings fresh insights into building resilient, vibrant cities that harmonise with nature.”

Prof Kaneko conveying his greetings through a recorded video

HU Executive Vice President Prof Shinji Kaneko, conveyed his greetings via a recorded video message, highlighting HU’s high ranking in the Times Higher Education SDG rankings and reaffirming the university’s commitment to these goals. He said, “I encourage all students to embrace this programme with curiosity and enthusiasm. By participating, you are taking a step toward becoming global leaders, prepared to contribute to making our world better. The knowledge and friendships you built here will be invaluable as you pursue future challenges and opportunities.”

HU Town & Gown Office Senior Researcher Mr Masamichi Takase and School of Integrated Arts and Sciences Dean Prof Toshihiro Yamada were the invited speakers for the first station. They presented their topic titled Toward a New Japanese Life Style with Nature: The Case of Hiroshima University. It was moderated by HU master’s student Mr Hitoshi Aoyagi.

Mr Takase (left) and Mr Aoyagi

Mr Takase, in his presentation, talked about the Town & Gown initiative and how universities, local municipalities and private companies share the region’s vision and work together for town development. He also highlighted efforts within this initiative aimed at achieving carbon neutrality.

Mr Takase explaining the view of town planning

Prof Yamada

Prof Yamada, on the other hand, spoke about the charm and beauty of the historic city of Hiroshima, highlighting its rich culture and significance. He warmly invited participants to visit Hiroshima someday to experience its unique attractions and vibrant heritage first-hand. Meanwhile, he also shared an overview of Miyajima’s evergreen broadleaf forests, the wild animals found on Miyajima island, and the vital role these forests play in mitigating global warming.

Prof Yamada explaining the map of Japan

The four major groups of services

 Station 2: University of Taipei

The MWST 3.0 reached its second station at the University of Taipei on 12 November 2024. The session featured Prof Sun Lih-Chyun from the University of Taipei Department of Urban Industrial Management and Marketing.

Prof Sun (left) and Prof Chen

Prof Sun delivered an inspiring talk titled Smart Taipei for Liveability and Sustainability, highlighting the vision of building a Centre of Hope. The session was moderated by College of City Management Dean Prof Chen Li-Ju.

Prof Sun explaining the five steps towards achieving the vision of sustainable development of Liveable and Sustainable Taipei City

In his presentation, he talked about the history of Taipei City, its natural environment, people, competitiveness, and recent major economic developments, including the 4+1 industry park. He also introduced the University of Taipei to the attendees and highlighted the city’s liveability and sustainability efforts, focusing on the Voluntary Local Review and the SDGs. He mentioned that by 2030, Taipei City aims to reduce carbon emissions by 40 per cent and achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, striving for a liveable, sustainable city with environmental, economic and social harmony.

Station 3: Manchester Metropolitan University

Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU) showcased its efforts to redefine urban sustainability at the third stop of MWST 3.0, which took place on 15 November 2024. The focus was on All Saints Park, a revitalised green space at the heart of the university. Once an ordinary urban area, the park was transformed into a vibrant and biodiverse environment that enhanced ecological health, promoted human well-being and strengthened community connections.

Dr Paul Micklethwaite, Reader in Design Innovation and Research Lead at MMU’s School of Art, delivered an engaging presentation highlighting the strategies employed in this transformation. His talk explored how sustainable design principles are applied to create a "more-than-human" urban environment—one that considers the needs of both people and nature. Dr Rachelle Viader Knowles, Head of International for the Faculty of Arts and Humanities at MMU, joined the session and contributed valuable insights into the university’s broader international collaborations and its vision for integrating sustainability into education and research.

Moderated by MMU’s academic team, the session sparked lively discussions on how these innovative approaches could inspire urban renewal projects globally. The visit also showcased MMU’s broader commitment to sustainability, with its ambitious goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2038. Participants learned about the university’s leadership in embedding sustainable practices into its curriculum and research initiatives, reflecting its standing as one of the UK’s top institutions for environmental innovation.

By providing a case study in practical, scalable solutions for urban challenges, this station underscored MMU’s dedication to fostering sustainability in education and global collaboration.

Dr Knowles (left) and Dr Micklethwaite (right)

A frequent feeder of the squirrels in All Saints Park

Station 4: Beijing Jiaotong University

On 20 November 2024, MWST 3.0 presented Beijing Jiaotong University (BJTU). The virtual event featured distinguished speakers, Prof Zhang Chun and Dr Xie Shuyi, both from BJTU’s Department of Urban and Rural Planning, who shared their expertise on the intersection of heritage conservation and urban modernisation at the session titled The Sustainable Development of Urban Heritage and Modern Transportation in China.

The session explored the challenges facing urban heritage in China, stemming from rapid economic growth over the past four decades. Prof Zhang and Dr Xie offered valuable insights into balancing the demands of heritage preservation with modernisation, drawing comparisons between Chinese and Western approaches. They also highlighted Beijing’s sustainable development efforts as a model for fostering global understanding and collaboration in urban planning.

The session brought together academics, students, and urban planning professionals, serving as a platform for meaningful knowledge exchange. Discussions centred on innovative strategies to preserve urban heritage amidst the pressures of redevelopment, showcasing BJTU’s commitment to advancing sustainable urban growth and cultural conservation.

Dr Zhang

Dr Zhang explaining the different neighbourhoods of urban forms in US

Dr Xie

Dr Xie elucidating the conservation system of urban and rural heritage in China

Station 5: FH Münster University of Applied Sciences

Mr Laakmann (left) and Prof Franzen-Reuter

On 26 November 2024, the fifth station featured a session titled, Third Mission of Universities, co-organised by FH Münster University of Applied Sciences. The session highlighted how academic institutions can drive meaningful societal change.

The session featured insightful presentations from Mr Rolf Laakmann, Board Member of TAFH Münster GmbH, who introduced FH Münster’s innovative projects, and Prof Dr Isabelle Franzen-Reuter, Vice-President for Teaching, Sustainability, and University Planning. Prof Franzen-Reuter shared strategies for universities to integrate sustainability into their broader missions beyond traditional academia. The engaging session showcased FH Münster’s leadership in fostering impactful connections between education, research and community sustainability.

Station 6: University of Ottawa

The MWST 3.0 continued its journey with station 6 on 28 November 2024, co-hosted by the University of Ottawa. The session, titled Cities of Tomorrow: How Climate Change Awareness Shapes Urban Sustainability, explored the critical intersection of climate action and urban development.

Prof Frémont delivering his message

The session began with a land acknowledgement and an introduction by moderator Ms Jinny Wu, Manager of International Partnerships Development. Next, Prof Jacques Frémont, President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ottawa, delivered a heartfelt greetings message, emphasising the importance of global collaboration in sustainability.

From left: Prof Jlouli, Ms Veiga, Mr Gougeon and Ms Jinny Wu

The highlight of the event was a thought-provoking talk by Prof Dr Dorra Jlouli, an expert in sustainability and innovation from the Telfer School of Management. Prof Jlouli delved into how climate change awareness is driving transformative strategies in urban planning, fostering resilience, and ensuring long-term sustainability in cities worldwide.  The session also featured enriching insights from Ms Yasmin Adania Veiga, a 4th-year Bachelor of Social Science student, who introduced participants to Canada’s vibrant culture, sports, and gastronomy. Concluding the event, Mr Marc-André Gougeon, Manager of International Market Development, provided an overview of the University of Ottawa’s programmes and global engagement initiatives.

As part of its series, Stations 7 and 8 highlighted innovative efforts in Malaysia to advance low-carbon and sustainable urban futures.

Station 7: Universiti Malaysia Sarawak

Co-organised with Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS), Station 7 centred on Sarawak’s Low Carbon Future: Initiatives and Pathways Forward. Held on 2 December 2024, the virtual event explored Sarawak’s journey toward sustainable development through insightful discussions led by experts.

Dr Yonis Buswig moderating the Q&A session

Mr Thian introducing UNIMAS to the participants

Dr Lennevey emphasising the importance of low-carbon future

The session started with an introduction to UNIMAS by UNIMAS Global Director Mr Thian Foong Fatt, followed by a presentation by Dr Lennevey Kinidi, a lecturer and research fellow at the Institute of Sustainable and Renewable Energy. She shed light on Sarawak’s low-carbon strategies. The event concluded with a lively Q&A session, moderated by UNIMAS Ts Dr Yonis Buswig.

Station 8: UTAR

The last station, which was held on 4 December 2024, was hosted by UTAR as the participants delved into Towards Sustainable Urban Futures: Transformative Approaches in Malaysia. The session featured a line-up of speakers addressing key aspects of urban sustainability.

Dr Lai sharing the strategic plan of UTAR Green Campus Committee

Prof Khoo highlighting the need for sustainable transportation system

Justin Lee sharing his vision on people-friendly streets

Ar Azril (top) sharing his thoughts on design strategies

The event was moderated by UTAR Faculty of Engineering and Green Technology MEnvTech and MSustConstMgt Programmes Head Assoc Prof ChM Ts Dr Tan Kok Weng. At the session, Office of International Affairs Director Assoc Prof Dr Lai Soon Onn presented on UTAR Green Initiatives Towards A Sustainable Campus while Ir Prof Dr Khoo Hooi Ling delivered a presentation titled Green Transport and Sustainable Cities: The Malaysian Initiatives. At the same time, Founder of Bike Commute Malaysia Mr Justin Lee shared his vision for people-friendly streets in Malaysia and VERITAS Design Group Principal and Director Ar Azril Amir Jaafar shared insights on transformative urban design.

Prof Dato’ Ewe delivering his speech

The session culminated in a closing speech by UTAR President Ir Prof Dato’ Dr Ewe Hong Tat as he said, “This virtual study tour has been a celebration of connection, connecting across borders, disciplines, and cultures. It is my hope that the insights and relationships you have gained from this event will inspire you to lead sustainable transformations in your own communities. Remember, change begins with a vision and a commitment, and each of you holds the power to create lasting impact.”

Group photo of participants and speakers at Station 8

Click the links below for the full video:

Station 1: Hiroshima University/span>

Station 2: University of Taipei

Station 3: Manchester Metropolitan University

Station 4: Beijing Jiaotong University

Station 5: FH Münster University of Applied Sciences

Station 6: University of Ottawa

Station 7: Universiti Malaysia Sarawak

Station 8: Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman