UTAR and UNIMED ink MoU to strengthen academic collaboration

UTAR and Universitas Negeri Medan (UNIMED), Indonesia, formalised their collaboration through a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signing ceremony on 26 August 2025 at Sungai Long Campus. 

Leading the UNIMED delegation was Rector Prof Dr Ir Baharuddin, S.T., M.Pd., accompanied by Vice-Rector for Planning, Collaboration, and Public Relations Prof Erond Litno Damanik; Vice Director of Postgraduate Studies Dr Abdurahman Adisaputera; International Engagement Dr Maya Oktora; and Domestic Cooperation Dr Phil Suci Pujiastuti. 

Representing UTAR were President Ir Prof Dato’ Dr Ewe Hong Tat; Vice President for R&D and Commercialisation Prof Dr Zuraidah binti Abd Manaf; Faculty of Creative Industries (FCI) Dean Assoc Prof Dr David Tneh Cheng Eng, Office of International Affairs Director Assoc Prof Dr Lai Soon Onn and Head of the Department of Game Studies Mr Tan Han Keong. 

As part of the programme, Dr Abdurahman and Dr Maya delivered a presentation on language education, followed by a discussion on potential collaborations in academic staff exchange, student exchange, and joint research initiatives. 

In his address, Prof Dato’ Ewe expressed that the partnership would open new doors for both institutions in building capacity and nurturing talent across borders. Prof Baharuddin also highlighted that this collaboration will enhance intercultural understanding and academic excellence for the benefit of both Malaysia and Indonesia. 

The signing of this MoU underscores UTAR’s continuous efforts to expand its international network of strategic partnerships, creating opportunities for knowledge sharing, research advancement, and global exposure for both staff and students.