SEPANG, Nov 29 – The Asia-Pacific Association for International Education (APAIE) Seminar Building Capacity for Excellence in International Education Malaysia 2024, held on 28-29 November 2024 at the scenic Avani Sepang Goldcoast, has successfully brought its curtains down, leaving an indelible mark on the discourse of internationalisation in education. This prestigious event, meticulously prepared over two months, served as a dynamic platform that united renowned ideologists and thought leaders from across the Asia-Pacific region, fostering collaboration and innovation in global education.

The seminar saw distinguished guests, including Datuk Professor Dr. Azlinda Azman, Director General of Higher Education, Ministry of Higher Education Malaysia (MOHE); Professor Dr. Shafry Mohd Rahim, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic & International), Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) and Professor Ts. Dr. Abd Latif Saleh, Pro-Vice Chancellor (UTM Kuala Lumpur Campus), whose presence underscored the importance of this landmark event.

In her keynote address, Datuk Professor Dr. Azlinda Azman emphasized Malaysia’s vision for higher education:
“Malaysia’s aspirations to become a globally respected education hub are guided by the principles of sustainability, prosperity, and innovation. The Ministry of Higher Education continues to ensure that education remains accessible, inclusive, and future-ready through initiatives such as the Higher Education Digital Transformation Framework and the forthcoming Malaysia Higher Education Plan 2026-2035. These efforts empower institutions to embrace advanced technologies, address global challenges, and prepare graduates equipped with skills for a dynamic world.”

Prominent speakers from esteemed institutions enriched the seminar with insightful discussions and transformative ideas. Among the luminaries were Dr. Erik Lithander, a member of the APAIE Advisory Council and Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Strategic Engagement); and Martin Hookham-Simms, Director International at the University of Auckland, New Zealand.

Joining them were Fiona Morris, Counsellor (Education and Research) at the Australian High Commission in Malaysia; Peter Mayr, Director of the International Office at the University of Salzburg, Austria; and Guy Perring, Regional Director Asia at Etio.

Additionally, the seminar also featured contributions from Dr. Vanita Shastri, Former Dean of Global Education & Strategic Partnerships at Ashoka University, India; Dr. Hon Wei Min from University of Wollongong, Australia; and Asst. Prof. Dr. Michelle Soo Oi Yoon from UCSI University, Malaysia.

The seminar’s agenda revolved around the exploration of internationalisation strategies, the synergy of global education systems, and the empowerment of institutions to tackle emerging global challenges. Through invigorating panel discussions, case studies, and networking sessions, participants cultivated innovative solutions that resonate with APAIE’s mission of advancing international education.

YBhg. Datuk Professor Dr. Azlinda Azman further articulated the seminar’s shared purpose:
“By aligning Malaysia’s national aspirations with APAIE’s mission, we reaffirm our shared commitment to enhancing education as a cornerstone of human progress. Let us continue to empower communities, inspire meaningful change, and strengthen global relationships through our collective efforts.”

The resounding success of this event is a testament to Malaysia’s commitment to becoming a beacon of educational excellence. As we look towards the future, the partnerships and ideas cultivated at APAIE Seminar 2024 promise to elevate the global education landscape, fostering a future defined by innovation, inclusivity, and global unity.

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