To further expand its international partnership network and strengthen academic exchanges with higher education institutions in Southeast Asia, Dr. Fanny Vong, Rector of the Macao University of Tourism (UTM), recently visited Sunway University in Malaysia and was warmly received by Professor Sibrandes Poppema, President and Vice-Chancellor, along with members of the university's senior management team.
During the visit, both sides engaged in in-depth discussions on talent development, joint curriculum initiatives, and academic research collaboration. They also agreed on promoting dual-degree programmes, enhancing faculty exchanges, and conducting joint research projects, marking a significant step forward in the partnership between the two universities.
UTM and Sunway University share a longstanding collaborative relationship. In 2021, UTM delivered online training programmes for Sunway University students. In the same year, the two universities jointly organised an international conference together with Nankai University and the University of South Carolina in the United States.
As part of the visit, Rector Fanny Vong toured Sunway University's campus and teaching facilities, gaining deeper insights into its educational philosophy and vibrant academic environment. The visit represents an important milestone in UTM's ongoing efforts to advance internationalisation and strengthen educational collaboration across Southeast Asia. As a key country along the Belt and Road Initiative, Malaysia offers broad opportunities for cooperation in tourism and hospitality education.
UTM will continue to uphold its commitment to openness and international engagement by actively expanding partnerships with leading universities and institutions both locally and abroad. Through these efforts, the University aims to contribute to Macao's development as a World Centre of Tourism and Leisure and support the implementation of the "1+4" economic diversification strategy, while leveraging education to serve national and regional development.
