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, he has been instrumental in advancing UTM’s global presence. Serving as Senior Director of UTM International since 2013 and later as UTM’s Pro Vice-Chancellor (International) until 2019, Professor Dr. Nordin played a key role in shaping, strategising, and implementing UTM’s internationalisation policies and initiatives.

His passion for the internationalisation of higher education, academic diplomacy, and engagement led him to apply for the Fulbright U.S.-ASEAN Visiting Scholar Program—a decision that proved successful. Since January this year, he has been at the University of Wyoming, Laramie, United States, embarking on what he calls his “NY Cowboy State Sojourn.” In an exclusive interview with UTM Newshub, he shared insights into his Fulbright research focus and international 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?

(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.

For the record, UTM has been actively engaged with the Fulbright Program across various fields and initiatives since 1985, with a total of 14 alumni, including Prof. Dr. Nordin. At UTM, global outreach through academic and research collaborations is highly encouraged as part of the university’s commitment to internationalisation. These initiatives not only facilitate knowledge exchange but also strengthen UTM’s global presence, particularly in the United States, fostering meaningful partnerships that drive academic excellence and innovation.