KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 17 – The Management of Internationalisation for University Leaders 2025 (MIUL 2025) programme, jointly organised by the Internationalization of Higher Education Division, Department of Higher Education, Ministry of Higher Education Malaysia (MOHE), Malaysian university International Director Committee (JKPA) and Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), marked another milestone in advancing Malaysia’s position as a regional higher education hub.
Held at the UTM Hotel & Residence in Kuala Lumpur, the three-day event brought together university leaders, policymakers, and internationalisation experts from across the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and Europe under the theme “Visionary Leadership for the Future of University Internationalisation: Upholding MADANI Aspirations Towards Malaysia as a Regional Higher Education Hub 2025.”
The event served as a strategic platform for translating policy priorities into actionable collaborations that foster inclusive and sustainable internationalisation in higher education.
A Vision for Global Collaboration
In his welcoming address, UTM Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Dr. Mohd Shafry Mohd Rahim, emphasised that internationalisation is no longer optional but essential in an increasingly interconnected academic landscape.
“Universities must prepare students to thrive globally, build inclusive partnerships, and remain resilient in uncertain times. MIUL 2025 embodies this responsibility by equipping leaders and staff with the competencies required to navigate the complexities of higher education in a global era,” he said.
He also underscored Malaysia’s ambition to become a vibrant regional hub for higher education by 2025, aligning with the values of Malaysia MADANI—inclusivity, integrity, and innovation.
Celebrating Fellowship and Shared Purpose
The MIUL 2025 Reception Dinner, held at the Grand Banquet Hall, UTM Hotel & Residence, was a highlight of the three-day programme, an evening filled with warmth, camaraderie, and inspiration. The dinner was graced by the distinguished presence of Professor Datuk Dr. Azlinda Azman, Director General of Higher Education, Department of Higher Education, MOHE, whose attendance added great prestige and honour to the occasion.
Her presence brought immense joy to the participants, symbolising MOHE’s steadfast commitment to strengthening Malaysia’s higher education internationalisation agenda. The evening sparkled with lively conversations, genuine laughter, and shared aspirations among academic leaders from across ASEAN and beyond.
Guests enthusiastically seized the opportunity to capture memorable photographs with Datuk Dr. Azlinda, who graciously took time to mingle and engage warmly with participants, facilitators, and volunteers. Among those who cherished the moment most were the UTM Kuala Lumpur international student volunteers, affectionately known as MIUL Buddies, who proudly represented UTM’s spirit of diversity and inclusivity.
Adding an international flair to the evening, the ceremony was emceed by Sadaquat Ali Ruk, an international student from Pakistan and President of the International Student Society (ISS), UTM Kuala Lumpur. His charismatic presence and eloquent delivery infused the dinner with energy and a truly global atmosphere.
The evening also featured welcoming remarks by Prof. Dr. Shamsul Sahibuddin, performing the function of Head of UTM Campus (Kuala Lumpur Branch), who expressed heartfelt appreciation to all guests and organisers. He described MIUL as “a convergence of ideas, leadership, and strategic foresight,” embodying Malaysia’s aspiration to advance global higher education through collaboration and innovation.
“This gathering reminds us that the pursuit of knowledge and understanding knows no borders, and that true leadership in academia begins with humility, curiosity, and service to humanity,” he shared, encapsulating the essence of the MIUL spirit.
Prof. Shamsul also reaffirmed UTM’s enduring mission to innovate for humanity through multidisciplinary research, sustainable development, and impactful partnerships, values that deeply resonated with everyone present.
The dinner thus symbolised not only fellowship and gratitude but also the unity of purpose that drives internationalisation in higher education, an inspiring testament to Malaysia’s leadership in nurturing talent, collaboration, and wisdom across borders.
Behind the Scenes: The Spirit of UTM International
While the spotlight shone on distinguished speakers and university leaders, the seamless execution of MIUL 2025 was made possible by the dedication and teamwork of the UTM International family.
From meticulous logistics to gracious hospitality, the team of staff, facilitators, and student volunteers worked tirelessly to ensure every detail reflected UTM’s core values of Integrity, Synergy, Excellence, and Sustainability (ISES). Their professionalism and unity transformed MIUL 2025 into not just a programme but a celebration of shared purpose and pride.
A Milestone Towards Malaysia’s Regional Higher Education Hub Vision
As MIUL 2025 concluded, participants left with renewed vision, actionable insights, and strengthened networks that will continue to shape the region’s internationalisation landscape.
Prof. Dr. Mohd Shafry summarised it best:
“Let us approach MIUL 2025 with vision, courage, and collaboration. Together, we will ensure Malaysia achieves its aspiration of becoming a vibrant and respected regional hub for higher education by 2025.”
The success of MIUL 2025 reaffirmed Malaysia’s leadership role in global higher education collaboration—anchored on innovation, inclusivity, and the spirit of Malaysia MADANI.
Source: UTM NewsHub