USM SIGNS MOU WITH FULBRIGHT MALAYSIA TO STRENGTHEN INTERNATIONAL ACADEMIC COLLABORATION

NIBONG TEBAL, 4 September 2026 - Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) continues to strengthen its international academic network through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Fulbright Malaysia (Malaysian-American Commission on Educational Exchange - MACEE), held in conjunction with the 80th Anniversary Celebration of the Fulbright Programme in Putrajaya on 1 September.

The MoU was signed by USM Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dato' Seri Ir. Dr. Abdul Rahman Mohamed, reflecting the commitment of both parties to expand collaboration in academic development, research, talent development and educational mobility between Malaysia and the United States.

Also present were Professor Ir. Ts. Dr. Shahrel Azmin Sundi @ Suandi, Dean of the School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering (PPKEE), and Professor Dr. Asrulnizam Abd Manaf, Director of the Centre for Excellence in Microelectronic Design (CEDEC), who also played a key role in exploring strategic collaboration opportunities between the two parties.

According to Professor Shahrel, the MoU not only builds on the existing relationship with Fulbright but also has the potential to serve as a catalyst for efforts by USM and the Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE) to establish networks with leading universities in the United States, particularly in support of the country's semiconductor technology development agenda.

Under the MoU, USM and MACEE will explore and implement various initiatives that benefit both parties, including academic and professional development through academic programmes, training, seminars and workshops aimed at enhancing teaching, learning and leadership capabilities.

Both parties also agreed to share knowledge and expertise in curriculum design, pedagogy and educational innovation to support the continuous enhancement of teaching and learning quality.

In research, the collaboration will include joint research projects, scholarly publications, academic conferences and other scholarly activities that could contribute to the advancement of knowledge in related fields.

The MoU also provides opportunities for student and staff mobility through industry placements, practical training, academic visits and exchange programmes, providing broader learning experiences and cross-institutional exposure.

In addition, both organisations will explore opportunities for academic pathways and further study that would enable eligible students or staff to pursue studies at USM, subject to the applicable admission requirements and academic regulations.

The collaboration also encompasses community engagement initiatives, educational outreach programmes and efforts to raise public awareness, in line with shared values in education, sustainability and social responsibility.

Text: Siti Faizah Abd Halim

Photos: Courtesy of Fulbright Malaysia (Malaysian-American Commission on Educational Exchange, MACEE) and the USM School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering.