MoU signing between UTAR and Xi'an University

A memorandum of understanding (MoU) signing ceremony was held between UTAR and Xi'an University, China, on 4 November 2024 at UTAR Sungai Long Campus. The signatories were UTAR President Ir Prof Dato’ Dr Ewe Hong Tat and Xi'an University President Prof Dr Chen Gang.

Under the MoU, UTAR and Xi'an University intend to explore avenues for collaboration aligned with their respective academic and educational objectives. This partnership encompasses several potential initiatives, including the exchange of research materials, publications, and information; the establishment of joint academic programmes; the appointment of joint teaching staff; and the coordination of collaborative research projects. Additionally, the MoU envisions the provision of undergraduate project opportunities, the exchange of students and academic staff, and the development of shared curricula in areas of mutual interest, thereby fostering a robust academic partnership.

Present at the event were Xi'an University School of Chemical Engineering Dean Prof Dr Zhai YunHui, Academic Affairs Office Vice Director Prof Dr Fu HongBing, School of International Education Vice Dean Prof Dr Dong HongJie, School of Information Engineering Vice Dean Prof Dr Chen GuangFeng and Xi'an SilkRoad Zhaoyang Education and Culture Communication Co., Ltd., General Manager Mr Hu XuFeng.

UTAR Lee Kong Chian Faculty of Engineering and Science Dean Prof Ts Dr Yap Wun She, Institute of Chinese Studies Deputy Dean (R&D and Postgraduate Programmes) Assoc Prof Dr Chin Chong Foh and Office of International Affairs (OIA) Director Assoc Prof Dr Lai Soon Onn were present as well.

Prof Dato’ Ewe expressed, “On the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the diplomatic relations between China and Malaysia, the friendship between our nations continues to deepen, with exchanges and cooperation becoming increasingly frequent. We highly value the collaborative opportunity with Xi'an University, and we are confident that the signing of this MoU will further strengthen academic exchange and research between our institutions, jointly advancing the educational development of both our universities and economies.”

Prof Chen began by providing an in-depth overview of Xi'an University, highlighting its diverse academic programmes, organisational structure, and educational strengths. In a gesture of goodwill and to further strengthen the bonds between the two institutions, Prof Chen extended a heartfelt invitation to UTAR representatives to visit both Xi'an University and the historic city of Xi’an. This visit, he noted, would offer valuable opportunities for firsthand engagement and deeper mutual understanding, laying the groundwork for more meaningful collaborations ahead.