UTAR and Polytechnic Institute of Zhejiang University strengthen academic collaboration

The signing of the memorandum of understanding (MoU) between UTAR and Polytechnic Institute of Zhejiang University, China, took place at UTAR Sungai Long Campus on 27 February 2025. The signatories were UTAR President Ir Prof Dato’ Dr Ewe Hong Tat, and School Council Chairman and Zhejiang University Polytechnic Institute Executive Vice Dean Prof Dr Bo Zheng.

This agreement was built upon a previous MoU signed on 6 November 2024, which laid the foundation for collaboration between the two institutions. It aimed to facilitate academic development exchanges, including mutual visits by faculty members for research, teaching, and participation in seminars, conferences, and workshops, as well as promoting collaboration on dual degree programmes and research attachments.

Additionally, the MoU sought to facilitate internships for students from both universities and provide summer practicum opportunities for postgraduate students. It also aimed to support the admission of Polytechnic Institute of Zhejiang University graduates and faculty members who met UTAR entry qualifications and English language requirements to pursue master’s and doctoral studies at UTAR. Moreover, it aimed to facilitate UTAR graduates pursuing a Master of Engineering or Master of Engineering Management programme at Polytechnic Institute of Zhejiang University, to initiate joint supervision for master’s and doctoral programmes, and to jointly conduct training courses for entrepreneurs.

Also present from Zhejiang University were Zhejiang University Council Vice Chairperson Prof Zhu Hui, the Department of Student Affairs of the Party Committee Director Prof Xu Guobin, Secretary of the Communist Youth League Committee Prof Bai Hao, Office of Graduate Admissions Director Prof Zhou Wenwen, Career Development Center Director Prof Cao Lei, Career Development Center Deputy Director Prof Shao Di, Polytechnic Institute of Zhejiang University Administration Office Director Ms Mao Qi, Polytechnic Institute of Zhejiang University International Affairs Manager Mr Wang Dawei and Zhejiang University Alumni and Global Energy Interconnection Development and Cooperation Organisation ASEAN Office Senior Manager Mr Wang Xiaofei.

Welcoming the delegates were Lee Kong Chian Faculty of Engineering and Science (LKC FES) Dean Prof Ts Dr Yap Wun She, Institute of Postgraduate Studies and Research Director Prof Ts Dr Lim Yang Mooi, Centre for Corporate and Community Development Director Ms Lim Guat Yen, Office of International Affairs (OIA) Deputy Director Assoc Prof Dr Chen, I-Chi, Department of Soft Skills Competency (Sungai Long Campus) Head Ms Fook Oi Yee, Centre for Curriculum Development and Innovation (Sungai Long Campus) Deputy Head Dr Ngeow Yeok Meng, Institute of Management and Leadership Development Manager Ms Kok Li Kuan and OIA Manager Ms Liu Dan.

Prof Dato’ Ewe enthused, “Since its establishment in 2002, UTAR, guided by its Six Educational Pillars, namely Virtue and Morality, Knowledge and Intellect, Physical and Mental Health, Sociality and Humanitarianism, Aesthetics and Harmony, and Creativity and Innovation, has been striving to nurture future leaders of society. We recognise that international collaboration and exchange are crucial for enhancing academic standards and driving research innovation. As one of China’s top universities, Zhejiang University is renowned for its excellence in engineering, technology, and management. We greatly value the opportunity to collaborate with Zhejiang University and believe that through our joint efforts, we can achieve significant progress in academic exchange, scientific research, and student development.”

Prof Zhu, on the other hand, provided an overview of Zhejiang University. She also highlighted that last year marked the 50th anniversary of the diplomatic relationship between China and Malaysia. She stated, “Moving forward, Zhejiang University is eager to strengthen collaboration with UTAR, leveraging our respective strengths to expand areas of cooperation, enhance global impact, and cultivate a new generation of highly skilled professionals dedicated to advancing China-Malaysia friendship and development.”