UMPSA strengthens global ties with Mohamed Bin Zayed University for humanities through strategic partnership

ABU DHABI, 3 October 2024 - Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah (UMPSA) has further expanded its global presence by formalising a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Mohamed bin Zayed University for Humanities (MBZUH). 

The signing ceremony, held in Abu Dhabi, was graced by the esteemed presence of His Royal Highness, the Crown Prince of Pahang, Tengku Hassanal Ibrahim Alam Shah Ibni Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri'ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah, who also serves as Pro-Chancellor of UMPSA. 

His attendance highlighted the importance of this strategic collaboration for both institutions.

UMPSA’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dato’ Ts. Dr. Yuserrie bin Zainuddin, expressed his gratitude for the partnership, describing it as a significant milestone in the university’s international journey. 

“This MoU is more than just a formal academic agreement—it embodies a shared vision for the future of education, research, and cultural exchange on a global scale. It reflects our mutual commitment to advancing higher education and fostering intercultural understanding,” he stated.

The MoU outlines several key areas of collaboration that will shape the impact of the partnership. 

These include academic cooperation through joint initiatives such as summer schools, diploma programmes, and other curricular activities, which will broaden educational opportunities for both students and staff. 

Collaborative research efforts, shared resources, and joint publications will also play a crucial role in advancing innovation and knowledge creation, positively influencing the global academic landscape.

The partnership is further enriched through student and staff exchanges, co-supervision of doctoral theses, and the potential development of dual degree programmes. 

These initiatives aim to promote the cross-fertilisation of ideas and practices between UMPSA and MBZUH, while ensuring mutual recognition of qualifications. 

Additionally, both universities will collaborate to establish joint advisory boards for scientific research and secure funding for impactful and sustainable academic projects.

Professor Dato’ Ts. Dr. Yuserrie emphasised that these areas of collaboration are not merely aspirations but actionable plans designed to deliver tangible benefits to both institutions. 

“By working closely together, UMPSA and MBZUH will not only enhance education and research but will also strengthen the bond between our institutions, creating lasting impacts for future generations,” he affirmed.

He also highlighted UMPSA's growing international profile, noting that this partnership complements the university’s strong collaborations with renowned institutions in Germany, China, and Kazakhstan. 

"UMPSA has firmly established itself as a leader in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), particularly through our dual degree programmes with prestigious universities. 

“These partnerships provide our students with invaluable global exposure and the opportunity to immerse themselves in diverse academic cultures," he added.

The collaboration with MBZUH brings a new and significant dimension to UMPSA’s global network. 

He said, this partnership represents a powerful example of how universities can collaborate to advance knowledge, cultural understanding, and academic excellence. 

“It opens doors for joint research, international journal contributions, and the development of dual degree programmes that will benefit students from both institutions," he remarked.

Dr. Khalifa Mubarak Al Dhaheri, Chancellor of MBZUH, expressed similar views, emphasising the importance of the collaboration in fostering scientific partnerships and cultural exchanges. 

He stated, this MoU highlights the significance of sharing expertise and working together towards common academic goals. 

“We look forward to transforming this agreement into impactful and sustainable projects that will benefit both universities,” he said. 

In addition to UMPSA, Universiti Islam Pahang Sultan Ahmad Shah (UniPSAS) also signed an MoU with MBZUH, further strengthening ties between Malaysian and Emirati institutions. 
During the event, Dean of the Centre for Modern Languages at UMPSA, Associate Professor Dr. Nik Aloesnita Nik Mohd Alwi engaged in discussions with Dean of the College of Arts and Languages at MBZUH, Professor Fawzi Al Ghazali, to explore potential staff and student exchange programmes in English and Arabic, as well as joint degree programmes and academic advisory roles.

In closing, Professor Dato’ Ts. Dr. Yuserrie expressed his deep appreciation to all those who played a part in the success of this collaboration, stating, this partnership is just the beginning. 

“It sets the foundation for greater academic achievements and cultural exchange between UMPSA and MBZUH. 

“As we move forward, I am confident that our combined efforts will lead to impactful and transformative outcomes for both our institutions and future generations,” he said. 

By: Nur Ezzati Mohd Nasir, Centre for International Relations