UTAR strengthens international collaboration with Hubei Open University through MoU signing

UTAR welcomed a delegation from Hubei Open University to its Sungai Long Campus for the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on 17 November 2025, aimed at fostering deeper academic collaboration and expanding international learning opportunities between the two universities.

The delegation was led by Hubei Open University Vice President Prof Dr Tang Ghulai, accompanied by Hubei Science and Technology College Deputy Director Mr Zhou Bin, and Overseas Learning (Training) Centre Person-in-Charge Ms Huang Xuan and Mr He Longfei.

Welcoming them were UTAR President Ir Prof Dato’ Dr Ewe Hong Tat, Office of International Affairs (OIA) Director Assoc Prof Dr Lai Soon Onn and staff.

During the ceremony, Prof Dato’ Ewe enthused, “Today, we are honoured to sign this MoU with Hubei Open University, marking the start of deeper collaboration in areas such as international research, joint talent development, academic exchange, and postgraduate cooperation. We look forward to creating broader platforms and more international opportunities that will enhance education and research for both institutions.”

Prof Tang echoed this sentiment, remarking that China and Malaysia share deep cultural affinity, and noting that UTAR’s advanced educational philosophy, distinctive characteristics, strong capabilities, and outstanding international collaboration achievements were truly impressive. He added that Prof Dato’ Ewe is also highly respected. In addition, he introduced Hubei Open University as a ‘three-in-one’ institution that integrates a system-based, platform-based, and physical university model, supported by its online platform, the Jingchu Learning Plaza (荆楚学习广场). He expressed hope for practical collaboration with UTAR and warmly welcomed Prof Dato’ Ewe to visit Hubei Open University for further discussions.

Under the MoU, both parties outlined several key goals and objectives to guide their collaborative efforts. These include initiating joint international collaborative research projects and joint talent training programmes, as well as facilitating academic development exchanges such as mutual faculty visits for research, teaching, seminars, conferences and workshops.

The agreement also supports student mobility initiatives to enhance learning experiences, internship opportunities for students of both institutions, and structured study pathways for Hubei Open University graduates who meet UTAR’s academic and English language requirements to pursue undergraduate studies at UTAR. In addition, the collaboration provides opportunities for Hubei Open University graduates and faculty members who fulfil UTAR’s entry and English language requirements to pursue master’s and doctoral studies at UTAR. The partnership further paves the way for potential joint supervision for master’s and doctoral programmes where appropriate.

The event concluded with a photography session and the exchange of souvenirs as a symbol of goodwill. The MoU marked a significant milestone in UTAR’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its international partnerships and promote meaningful academic cooperation for the benefit of students, researchers and educators from both institutions.