SIBU: The Malaysian-American Commission on Educational Exchange (MACEE) yesterday (Aug 17) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with University of Technology Sarawak (UTS) to promote education collaboration.
The signing ceremony, which took place at the UTS premises, marked a significant step towards mutual cooperation in education, research, and cultural exchange between Malaysia and the United States.
The MoU was signed by MACEE executive director, Curtis Johnson, and UTS vice chancellor, Prof Datuk Dr Khairuddin Ab. Hamid, in the presence of esteemed guests and key academic figures from both organisations.
The MoU emphasised both institutions’ commitment to supporting higher education in Malaysia and promoting cross- cultural academic exchange through the Fulbright programme.
Moreover, the MoU underscored both institutions’ dedication to fostering educational excellence and strengthening international relationships.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Curtis highlighted the importance of the collaboration in higher education.
He stated for over 60 years, MACEE had facilitated the education diplomacy between Malaysia and the United States through various Fulbright programmes.
“Through the work of these very talented and capable grantees, we hope to foster a world where the brightest minds transcend borders, and where innovation and mutual understand flourish.
“This MoU between MACEE and UTS ensures enduring connections among our institutions and continues to build our network of academic partnerships for years to come,” he pointed out.
On MACEE, Curtis said it was established in 1963 to promote educational and cultural exchanges between Malaysia and the United States.
He said MACEE managed prestigious programmes like the Fulbright programmes, fostering the mutual understanding and strengthening the bonds between the two nations.
Since its inception, he said MACEE had played a crucial role in facilitating over 1,000 Malaysian and 2,000 American Fulbright grants, contributing to developing future leaders and scholars.
“The Fulright programme, celebrating over 77 years of success, has awarded over 400,000 grants worldwide, producing a global alumni network that includes more than 40 current or former heads of state and over 60 nobel prize laureates,” Curtis added.
Meanwhile, in his speech, Khairuddin said while UTS was a young institution, it was actively pursuing meaningful collaborations with esteemed institutions such as MACEE.
This partnership, he pointed out, not only opened doors for UTS to engage with universities across the United States but also provided a platform to showcase Borneo’s rich cultural heritage.
“We look forward to nurturing a strong relationship that will benefit our researchers, students and the global academic community, contributing to the advancement of knowledge and fostering international cooperation,” Khairuddin added.
Among those present were MACEE external relations specialist, Datin Sharifah Ikhlas AIJaffree and UTS deputy vice chancellor, Prof Dr Mohd Shahril Osman.
