Quanzhou Education Association visits Kampar Campus

UTAR Kampar Campus was visited by delegates from the Quanzhou Education Association (泉州市教育学会研修团) on 3 December 2025. The visit aimed to promote mutual understanding between UTAR and the Association, as well as explore potential areas for future educational collaboration.

The delegates from Quanzhou Education Association were led by its President Mr Xu Changyu. He was accompanied by Quanzhou Education Foundation Chairman Mr Xie Xicai, Quanzhou Education Association Vice Presidents Mr Cai Yulin and Mr Su Minggai, committee members and other representatives. Mr Chen Qinghong, the representative of Dato’ Lee Yeow Chor, Group Managing Director and Chief Executive of IOI Corporation Berhad, was also part of the delegation.

They were welcomed by UTAR President Ir Prof Dato’ Dr Ewe Hong Tat, who was accompanied by Vice President for Student Development and Alumni Relations Prof Dr Choong Chee Keong, Faculty of Education Deputy Dean for Student Development and Industrial Training Dr Ngeow Yeok Meng, Office of International Affairs (OIA) Director Assoc Prof Dr Lai Soon Onn, Division of Programme Promotion Director Dr Ong Kiah Ju, Centre for International Student Recruitment and Education Collaboration Deputy Director Ms Irene Wong Hong Lei, Department of Soft Skills Competency (DSSC) of Kampar Campus Head Ms Hee Chwen Yee and UTAR staff.

Prof Dato’ Ewe sharing the advantages of studying at UTAR for international students

In his welcome remarks, Prof Dato’ Ewe gave a brief introduction to the history of Kampar’s founding and highlighted UTAR’s establishment, core educational philosophy and latest developments to the delegation. He also shared his past visits to Quanzhou and collaborations with its educational institutions. He further elaborated on UTAR’s international partnerships, distinctive programme features and the strong employability of its graduates.

He expressed, “We are committed to providing international students with comprehensive academic and living support, accompanying them as they grow. Beyond earning their professional qualifications, students have the opportunity to improve their English proficiency, enhance personal adaptability, and broaden their global perspective, laying a solid foundation for their future careers. Whether through short-term programmes or a full undergraduate journey, studying in Malaysia offers students invaluable experiences. We warmly welcome high school graduates from Quanzhou to join UTAR and become part of our family.”

Mr Xu describing the visit as an inspiring journey of learning and friendship

Mr Xu expressed his heartfelt thanks for UTAR’s warm hospitality and meticulous arrangements, describing the visit as an inspiring journey of learning and friendship. He provided a brief introduction to Quanzhou’s history and distinctive characteristics, as well as an overview of its educational development. He remarked, “Quanzhou boasts a profound historical legacy. As a key starting point of the ancient Maritime Silk Road and a UNESCO World Heritage site, it is a city of cultural inclusiveness, economic prosperity, and openness.”

Acknowledging UTAR’s position as a private university, he noted that over half of Quanzhou’s higher education institutions are privately run. He expressed his hope for collaboration between UTAR and the Quanzhou Education Association, as well as with other educational institutions in Quanzhou, and looked forward to opportunities for Quanzhou students to pursue further studies at UTAR.

Souvenir exchange between both parties

Prof Dato’ Ewe presenting a token of appreciation to Mr Xie (left picture) and Mr Chen (right picture)

To provide the delegates with a clearer insight into studying at UTAR, the University organised a briefing session involving multiple departments. Dr Lai highlighted UTAR’s international development, while Department of Soft Skills Competency (Kampar Campus) academic Mr Fong Kah Hoong introduced the soft skills programmes. Ms Irene Wong spoke about joint degree programmes and educational collaborations, Department of Student Affairs (Kampar Campus) Manager Mr Ng Foo Yek shared student welfare and services, and Centre for Extension Education Assistant Manager Ms Kong Chee Yeng presented the English enhancement and related courses.

The visit primarily aimed to explore short-term study exchange programmes, undergraduate and foundation programmes at UTAR for high school students, and other potential areas of collaboration. UTAR looks forward to fostering meaningful partnerships with the Association.

The visit concluded with a campus tour and a visit to the UTAR T&CM Centre.