Strategic collaboration between AUSC-FISU Oceania to strengthen the development of university sports in Malaysia

GENEVA, 18 November 2023 - The strategic collaboration between the ASEAN University Sports Council (AUSC) and FISU Oceania is set to strengthen the development of university sports in Malaysia. 

The ceremony saw the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) by President David Schumde of FISU Oceania and Professor Ts. Dr. Mohd Rusllim Mohamed, who serves as the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Student Affairs and Alumni) at Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah (UMPSA) and is also the Chairman of the Malaysian University Sports Council (MASUM) and the President of the ASEAN University Sports Council (AUSC). The MoU was signed in conjunction with the 38th FISU General Assembly. 

FISU Oceania is an organization dedicated to university sports in the Oceania region, established since 2008. 

It represents nine countries, including Australia (AUS), New Zealand (NZL), Cook Islands (COK), Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), Fiji (FIJ), Marshall Islands (MHL), Northern Mariana Islands (NMI), Papua New Guinea (PNG), and Samoa (SAM).

According to Professor Ts. Dr. Mohd Rusllim, this collaboration will strengthen international relations between the two parties, encompassing the organization of sports events, sports science, and sports research.

“In the context of national sports development, this collaboration is expected to contribute to the advancement of sports, particularly in disciplines such as rugby, football, and netball within the higher education institutions in the country.

“Furthermore, this partnership is set to contribute to the success of programs aligned with FISU's Global Strategy is preserving and promoting university sports in this region. 

“Both parties will engage in the exchange of experiences, research, and training, offering students exposure to educational programs that can be mutually advantageous," he stated.

The MoU ceremony was witnessed by Martin Doultan, a Member of the FISU Executive Committee, and See Tow Cheng Fave, Secretary General of the Asian University Sport Federation (AUSF). Representatives from ASEAN and Oceania countries attending the 38th FISU General Assembly, including delegates from Singapore, the Philippines, Thailand, and Cambodia, were also in attendance.

Also present was Mohd Aznorizamin Haji Ismail, the Secretary-General of MASUM, and the Director of the Sports and Culture Centre at UMPSA. 

By: Mohd Aznorizamin Haji Ismail, Sports And Culture Centre

Translation by: Aminatul Nor Mohamed Said, UMPSA Career Centre (UMPSACC)