Nanjing, Dec 14 – Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) is gaining recognition in the global research community following a significant visit to Nanjing University (NJU) from December 8 to 14, 2024. This collaboration coincides with the 50th Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations between Malaysia and China, marking an important milestone in enhancing cultural, research, academic, and strategic relations between the two countries.
During the visit, UTM accepted NJU’s proposal to establish an NJU Test and Training Centre on its campus. This centre will serve as a platform for academic certifications, assessments, and collaborative research, further bolstering UTM’s reputation as a leader in global academia. Plans are underway to bring this vision to fruition, marking a crucial step in fostering long-term collaboration.
“This isn’t just a step forward; it’s a giant leap for UTM. This Test Centre will enhance our capabilities and position UTM as a hub for global academic excellence,” stated Assoc. Prof. Dr. Hadina Habil, Chair of the Language Academy, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities (FSSH).
Another exciting outcome of the visit is the decision to pursue joint research under the Malaysia-China Science, Technology, and Innovation Grant, managed by the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI) of Malaysia and the Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST) of China. This initiative will focus on artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced materials, aiming to address global challenges, push the boundaries of science, and foster sustainable innovation.
This innovative research collaboration stems from a series of strategic exchanges that laid a strong foundation for the partnership. A pivotal moment occurred on July 28, 2024, when NJU’s Director of International Relations visited Prof. Dr. Mohd Shafry Mohd Rahim, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic & International) at UTM, to explore potential areas of collaboration. This landmark visit led to fruitful discussions, resulting in NJU’s commitment to sponsoring and engaging in strategic research collaborations under the initiative “Strategic Research Visit, Collaboration, and Joint Research Seminar between UTM and Nanjing University” in Nanjing, China.
During the recent visit to NJU, a ten-member UTM delegation led by Prof. Dr. Mohd Shahrizal Sunar, Director of the Institute of Human Centered Engineering (iHumEn), had the opportunity to experience NJU’s remarkable research culture, characterized by a relentless pursuit of excellence. Ranked 145th in the QS World University Rankings 2025, NJU is distinguished by its commitment to innovation, supported by a highly motivated ecosystem and cutting-edge facilities. The delegation was inspired by NJU’s world-class research environment, underscoring the importance of institutional support and high-quality infrastructure in driving academic success.
The success of the visit is largely attributed to the Bowen Academy, the Smart Partner of UTM’s School of Professional and Continuing Education (SPACE). The academy not only hosted the UTM delegation but also facilitated meaningful exchanges and strategic discussions and provided insight into NJU’s exceptional academic culture. “This collaboration has demonstrated what is possible when two world-class institutions partner. Bowen Academy’s role was vital in ensuring our visit transcended formality, becoming a stepping stone for innovation,” remarked Prof. Dr. Mohd Shahrizal Sunar.
The visit was not solely focused on research and academics; it also included a rich cultural immersion into Nanjing and Suzhou’s vibrant cities, highlighting the deep history and heritage underpinning NJU’s achievements. The week-long visit showcased NJU’s academic excellence and the rich history of Nanjing and Suzhou. Key highlights included:
– Engaging with Leading Faculties: In-depth discussions with faculty members from NJU’s top schools, including Engineering, Chemistry, Computer Science, Intelligence Science and Technology, International Studies, and Medicine, opened doors for future joint projects.
– Exploring Advanced Facilities: Visits to NJU’s campuses demonstrated the university’s world-class infrastructure and long-standing commitment to maintaining an excellent research ecosystem.
– Cultural Enrichment: The delegation fully immersed themselves in the rich heritage of Nanjing and Suzhou, strengthening ties through cultural understanding, which added depth to the trip.
The visit concluded on a high note with a farewell dinner hosted by NJU’s International Affairs Office, during which both institutions reaffirmed their commitment to long-term collaboration. The establishment of the NJU Test Centre and insights gained from NJU’s research culture are expected to drive UTM toward even greater achievements in global academia. This collaboration signifies a bold step forward for UTM, demonstrating its commitment to building bridges across borders.
