MARA and Shanghai Jiao Tong University strengthen Malaysia-China education ties through academic exchange, research collaboration and student mobility programmes.
SHANGHAI: Majlis Amanah Rakyat (MARA) and Shanghai Jiao Tong University (SJTU) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to enhance academic, research and cultural cooperation between Malaysia and China.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi witnessed the signing ceremony, describing the partnership as a new chapter in Malaysia-China higher education collaboration.
“It is indeed a great honour to be here at one of the top universities in China, and among the most prestigious institutions in the world,” said Ahmad Zahid, who is also Rural and Regional Development Minister.
He noted that the MoU represents a new chapter in educational collaboration that will open meaningful opportunities for both institutions and nations.
The agreement establishes strategic collaboration in academic development, research and capacity building to support MARA’s global education agenda.
MARA aims to leverage SJTU’s expertise in engineering, artificial intelligence, computer science, medicine and maritime studies through a proposed Technical Advisory Committee.
The committee will focus on data analytics, green technology and research commercialisation via joint seminars, professional training and benchmarking programmes.
Both institutions welcomed opportunities for academic staff exchange and training, including SJTU academics delivering lectures at MARA institutions.
MARA lecturers will undergo training at SJTU to strengthen expertise in quantum technology, aerospace engineering and biomedical sciences.
The collaboration includes student mobility programmes such as semester exchanges, summer or winter schools and research internships.
These initiatives will allow MARA students to gain exposure to SJTU’s advanced research ecosystem.
SJTU students may visit Malaysia for industry training and ASEAN-focused programmes to promote cross-cultural understanding.
Ahmad Zahid hoped special tuition fee arrangements or discounts for MARA-sponsored students would be explored to ensure sustainable financial planning.
He outlined plans for joint research focusing on AI, sustainable energy, biotechnology, smart cities, digital manufacturing and maritime technology.
The partnership will include joint supervision of postgraduate students and co-publications.
Both institutions will explore co-sponsorship and scholarship opportunities, including merit-based scholarships and laboratory grants.
Future initiatives may include cultural immersion, language learning, student leadership development and entrepreneurship incubation.
“I am confident that today’s MoU will serve as a foundation for a transformative partnership between MARA and SJTU,” Ahmad Zahid said.
SJTU ranks 45th among top global universities and currently hosts about 235 Malaysian students.
The MoU was signed by MARA Sponsorship Division Deputy Director Maizatul Akma Mohd and SJTU’s Member of the CPC Standing Committee Yu Zhaoyang.
MARA chairman Datuk Dr Asyraf Wajdi and other Malaysian officials attended the ceremony. – Bernama
