UTAR and Tongji University sign student exchange agreement to foster cross-cultural learning

UTAR and Tongji University formalised their commitment to academic collaboration through the signing of a student exchange agreement (SEA) at UTAR Sungai Long Campus on 6 May 2026. The agreement was signed by UTAR President Ir Prof Dato’ Dr Ewe Hong Tat and Tongji University Executive Vice President Prof Lyu Peiming, and witnessed by UTAR Vice President for Internationalisation and Academic Development Ir Prof Dr Goi Bok Min and Tongji University Director of International Students Office Assoc Prof Dr Chen Yili.

The SEA established a framework for the exchange of undergraduate and postgraduate students between the two universities. The agreement aimed to provide students with invaluable cross-cultural learning opportunities and international academic experience, further strengthening the educational ties between Malaysia and China.

Tongji University, China, is a premier institution in China, frequently receiving top accolades for research, engineering, and architecture. It is ranked #1 globally in Civil Engineering by the 2025 ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) and U.S. News & World Report. Founded in 1907 and located in Shanghai, Tongji University is one of China’s most prestigious comprehensive research universities, making it an ideal partner for UTAR in promoting academic exchange and cross-cultural understanding.

The signing was built upon years of robust research collaboration between the two institutions. UTAR Lee Kong Chian Faculty of Engineering and Science Deputy Dean for Academic Development and Undergraduate Programmes Ir Ts Dr Leong Kah Hon received the China Belt & Road Young Scientist Exchange Program in 2019, which initiated his active collaboration with Tongji University academics, Prof Dr Chaomeng Dai and Prof Dr Zhi Li. Subsequently, in 2025, Dr Leong was awarded with a fellowship, International Young Talent from the Ministry of Science and Technology China to perform a research attachment at Tongji University.

Concurrently, Prof Dr Chaomeng Dai serves as an Adjunct Professor at UTAR Faculty of Engineering and Green Technology. The two universities have since been steadily advancing joint publications and co-supervision of postgraduate students.

In his welcome remarks, Prof Goi expressed his delight at the official signing. “Tongji University is a top-tier institution in China with a long history and an excellent reputation. UTAR is deeply honoured to establish an in-depth cooperative relationship with such a distinguished university. This student exchange agreement is not starting from scratch; it is a natural progression built upon years of solid collaboration,” he said.

Assoc Prof Dr Chen Yili, speaking on behalf of Tongji University, looked forward to the mutual benefits the partnership would bring. “This agreement opens new avenues for our students to gain international exposure and academic enrichment at UTAR. We are confident that this exchange will not only enhance their educational experience but also foster lasting friendships and cross-cultural understanding between the youth of our two nations.”

Also present at the signing ceremony from Tongji University were School of Continuing Education Dean Assoc Prof Dr Jin Fuan, Associate Researcher and Shanghai Multi-network and Multi-mode Rail Transit Collaborative Innovation Centre Executive Deputy Director Dr Hong Shaozi and Foreign Affairs Office Project Coordinator Ms Xu Li.

Representing UTAR were Office of International Affairs (OIA) Director Assoc Prof Dr Lai Soon Onn, Institute of International Education Senior Assistant Manager Ms Wong Shin Chet and OIA Senior Assistant Manager Ms Wang Yiling.

The agreement reflects the enduring friendship between Malaysia and China, with educational cooperation being a vital component of the bilateral relationship. Both universities look forward to expanding their collaboration into other areas, including joint research, academic exchange, and joint supervision of postgraduate students.