đź“ť Summary
Malaysia-Japan International Institute of Technology (MJIIT) completed a two-session Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) Program with Sophia University, Japan, and the Institute of Technology of Cambodia (ITC), bringing together students from Malaysia, Japan, and Cambodia in a cross-cultural learning experience. The program strengthened the partnership between Sophia University and UTM, while expanding regional collaboration, and supported the university’s ASCEND 2030 goals by enhancing students’ global awareness and communication skills. The program also promoted empathy and understanding among students from diverse backgrounds.
KUALA LUMPUR, June 9 – Malaysia-Japan International Institute of Technology (MJIIT), Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), completed the two-session Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) Program in partnership with Sophia University, Japan, and the Institute of Technology of Cambodia (ITC).
Conducted virtually via Zoom on 2 and 9 June 2026, the program brought together students from Malaysia, Japan, and Cambodia in a meaningful cross-cultural learning experience that reflected UTM ASCEND 2030’s aspirations under the pillars of Global Talent and Humanity and Well-Being.
Hosted by Sophia University and coordinated by Program Director Prof. Naoki Umemiya, the COIL Program leveraged digital technology to create an international classroom where students could engage, collaborate, and learn from one another despite geographical boundaries.
The initiative also strengthened the longstanding partnership between Sophia University and UTM through MJIIT, while expanding regional collaboration through the participation of ITC.
Approximately 50 undergraduate and postgraduate students from MJIIT participated in the program. The MJIIT contingent was supported by a team of facilitators led by Dr. Farah Liana Mohd Redzuan, Manager (External & Global Engagement), MJIIT. The facilitators included Dr. Ahmad Faiz Mohammad, Dr. Tan Lit Ken, Dr. Shahirah Abu Bakar, Dr. Wan Imaan Izhan, Dr. Nur Syahirah Kamal Baharin, and Norfazliana Jaafar.
The first session, held on 2 June 2026, focused on two key themes: Country and Culture and Higher Education System. Student representatives from each institution delivered presentations introducing their respective countries, cultural traditions, social values and higher education landscapes.
From MJIIT, the first theme was presented by four students: Mior Syazril Asytar, Mior Ahmad Munshi, Mohammad Khairul Ariff Mohd Nasrom, Leng Jia Liang, and Ahmad Zaim Jumain.
The second theme was prepared and presented by three students: Amr Yasser Montasser Montasser, Loh Khai Lun, and Noor Farizan Yusop. Through these presentations, participants gained valuable insights into the similarities and differences that shape educational experiences in Malaysia, Japan, and Cambodia.
Beyond the formal presentations, the session encouraged active discussion among students, allowing them to exchange perspectives and ask questions about cultural practices, student experiences, and academic systems. These interactions helped foster greater intercultural awareness and mutual respect among participants from diverse backgrounds.
The second and final session, conducted on 9 June 2026, centred on the theme of Student Life at Campus. Students shared their experiences regarding academic life, student organisations, extracurricular activities, campus facilities, and the challenges and opportunities they encountered throughout their university journey. The session provided a platform for participants to discover how students in different countries balance academic commitments, personal development, and social engagement.
The COIL Program strongly supported UTM ASCEND 2030’s Global Talent pillar by exposing students to international perspectives and enhancing their ability to communicate and collaborate in multicultural environments. As future professionals and leaders, students were given the opportunity to develop intercultural competencies, global awareness, and communication skills that are increasingly important in today’s interconnected world.
At the same time, the program embodied the Humanity and Well-Being pillar by promoting empathy, understanding, and meaningful human connections across cultures. Through open dialogue and collaborative learning, students were encouraged to appreciate diverse viewpoints and build friendships beyond national borders. Such experiences contribute not only to academic growth but also to personal development and social well-being.
The successful completion of the COIL Program demonstrates the value of international virtual learning initiatives in preparing students for global citizenship while nurturing a culture of inclusivity and mutual understanding. It also highlights the continued commitment of UTM MJIIT and its international partners to creating impactful educational experiences that transcend geographical boundaries.
