KUALA NERUS, 30 April – Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT) continues to make history after signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Malaysian-American Commission on Educational Exchange (MACEE) to mark a strategic step in fostering international academic and research collaboration.

UMT Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ir. Ts. Dr Mohd Zamri Ibrahim, stated that the strategic partnership reflects UMT’s ongoing commitment to advancing excellence in marine science, environmental sustainability, and sustainable development on a global scale.

“Today marks a significant milestone in the collaboration, friendship, and shared aspirations between the two institutions. UMT is committed to excellence, and this success provides a strong foundation for exploring further internationalisation opportunities,” he said during his speech at the MoU signing ceremony.

UMT is currently ranked among the top 100 universities in the world for Marine and Freshwater Biology, 20th in Asia, and is one of the leading institutions in Malaysia in this field.

This excellence extends to various other disciplines, including Agriculture and Forestry, Economics, Computer Science, Engineering, Physical Sciences, and Social Sciences.

“This achievement is a testament to the dedication of UMT’s academic community and serves as a catalyst for deeper global collaboration,” he added.

Through the MoU with MACEE, UMT aims to expand cooperation in student exchange, joint research, and academic development that can make a significant impact on the global community.

The relationship between UMT and MACEE has already yielded positive results when an American student has participated in the Fulbright programme.

“A total of 11 UMT students have applied to join MACEE’s Global UGRAD Exchange Programme, and this reflects their interest and readiness to pursue international learning opportunities.”

Meanwhile, MACEE Executive Director Curtis Johnson expressed his hope that the partnership would have a positive impact on academics and research, particularly in empowering the blue economy.

“As UMT moves onto the world stage, we also hope to bring the world to UMT, even in small ways. We are well aware that UMT shares a similar focus in marine science and aquatic resources.

“Our goal is to strengthen and internationalise creativity through collaborations that align closely with UMT’s focus area, namely the blue economy. Today’s signing not only formalises the relationship between Malaysia and the Fulbright programme, but also lays a strong foundation for expanding opportunities between our two institutions,” he said.