If there is one name synonymous with internationalisation at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), it is undoubtedly Professor Dr. Nordin Yahaya. A Professor of Structural Engineering at the Faculty of Civil Engineering, Professor Nordin previously served as UTM’s Pro Vice-Chancellor (International), where he played a pivotal role in shaping, strategising, and implementing UTM’s internationalisation policies and initiatives. His passion for the internationalisation of higher education, academic diplomacy, and engagement has led Professor Nordin to apply for the Fulbright U.S.-ASEAN Visiting Scholar Program. His application was successful, and he has been at the University of Wyoming, Laramie, United States, since January this year. Terming it as his “NY Cowboy State Sojourn” and in interview with UTM Newshub he discussed his Fulbright research focus and experience.
(i) What inspired you to apply for the Fulbright US-ASEAN Visiting Scholar Programme, and how do you envision this opportunity impacting your academic and professional journey?
The Fulbright US-ASEAN Visiting Scholar Programme resonated with me due to its mission to foster cross-border knowledge sharing, cultural exchange, and academic collaboration between the US and ASEAN. With a background in global education and engineering, I am deeply committed to advancing internationalisation in higher education.
My experience as both a practitioner and academic has shaped my understanding of how global engagement enhances educational quality.I am particularly motivated to strengthen collaborations between US universities—especially in the Mountain West region—and institutions in Malaysia and ASEAN.
Through my advisory role with the Office of Global Engagement at the University of Wyoming, I aim to establish strategic partnerships for research collaborations, mobility programmes, and capacity-building initiatives. This Fulbright experience allows me to merge my expertise in research, teaching, and leadership to introduce innovative strategies and best practices that can benefit Malaysia’s academic landscape and ASEAN-wide cooperation.
(ii) Can you share the focus of your research during your Fulbright experience and its potential benefits for Malaysia and ASEAN?
During my Fulbright tenure at the University of Wyoming, I am conducting research on global competence as a key outcome of internationalisation strategies in higher education. In an increasingly interconnected world, students must develop cross-cultural awareness, adaptability, and collaborative problem-solving skills. My research seeks to identify effective methods for assessing and fostering these competencies using established theoretical frameworks and hybrid assessment techniques.
This research holds significant benefits for Malaysia and ASEAN, as it provides evidence-based insights into designing internationalisation strategies that enhance students’ global readiness. The findings will support universities in developing targeted curricula, mobility programmes, and strategic partnerships to foster global competence, employability, and innovation. By creating scalable models for developing global competence, this study will contribute to Malaysia’s higher education strategy and broader regional development.
(iii) How do you plan to leverage the knowledge and connections gained through the Fulbright programme to contribute to Malaysia’s academic and societal development?
The Fulbright program offers an invaluable platform for building international networks and acquiring cutting-edge knowledge. I plan to leverage these connections and insights in several keyways to contribute to Malaysia’s academic and societal growth. By collaborating with leading scholars, policymakers, and education professionals in the US, I will gain exposure to innovative practices in global education, internationalization strategies, and the development of global competence.
Upon returning to Malaysia, I will help strengthen Malaysia’s academic networks by fostering long-term collaborations between US institutions and Malaysian universities. My advisory role with the Office of Global Engagement (WyoGlobal) at the University of Wyoming will enable me to serve as a bridge, facilitating joint research, student and staff exchanges, and capacity-building workshops. These initiatives will promote collaborative problem-solving in areas such as sustainability, AI-driven infrastructure, and innovation governance.
Additionally, I aim to collaborate with policymakers and industry leaders to apply my research findings on global competence to workforce development programmes. This will help ensure that Malaysian graduates possess the skills needed to thrive in an evolving global job market and contribute to the nation’s socio-economic progress. Through sustained engagement with both international networks and local stakeholders, I plan to create a lasting impact on Malaysia’s academic system and broader societal development.
(iv) What challenges do you anticipate during your time in the programme, and how do you plan to overcome them?
So far, I have been settling down well at the University of Wyoming and am happy with the progress of my research. I have received excellent support from my host institution, and the state-of-the-art facilities provide a conducive environment for high-quality research. However, one primary challenge has been adapting to the harsh weather conditions, including extreme cold temperatures (average -14°C in January, with lows of -25°C), high-speed winds, heavy snowfall, and high elevation (2,200m). I have taken necessary measures, including lifestyle adjustments and seeking advice from locals, to adapt effectively.
Another potential challenge is balancing research objectives with collaborative activities and outreach engagements. To overcome this, I have developed a structured plan with clear milestones that prioritize both research progress and collaborative engagements. Maintaining regular communication with my academic advisors and remaining flexible will help me address unexpected challenges and make the most of this experience.
Additionally, I would like to thank the US Embassy in Malaysia and US Mission to ASEAN in Jakarta, MACEE, IIE and WyoGlobal for the comprehensive pre-departure preparation, which made my transition to the US remarkably smooth. Their guidance has been instrumental in helping me quickly adjust and focus on my research.
(v) What advice would you give to Malaysian academics or researchers aspiring to pursue prestigious programmes like the Fulbright scholarship?
For Fulbright applicants, it is essential to engage with US-based professors and institutions, as the program is designed to foster US-global collaborations. However, for broader international opportunities, it is equally important to engage with diverse institutions across regions, as unexpected opportunities can often arise from different collaborations.
My advice to aspiring scholars is to start small and take progressive steps toward impactful outcomes. Build a strong research foundation, publish meaningful work, and engage in academic and community activities. Early collaborations at the local or regional level can provide invaluable experiences that lay the groundwork for larger projects.
Enhancing international networking is crucial. Attend conferences, participate in exchanges, and collaborate with researchers worldwide. These interactions expand global exposure and open pathways to long-term partnerships and funding opportunities. Demonstrate a commitment to projects with societal impact, which can enhance credibility when applying for prestigious programs.
Lastly, be persistent and strategic. Tailor your applications to highlight how your work addresses global challenges and how you plan to contribute to Malaysia, ASEAN, and the global academic community. Each small achievement should be viewed as a stepping stone to larger successes.
Source: UTM NewsHub