PUTRAJAYA: Heriot-Watt University Malaysia was honoured to host the Secretary of State for Scotland Ian Murray during his inaugural visit to Malaysia. The visit to the university’s sustainable campus in Putrajaya marked an important milestone in strengthening ties between Scotland and Malaysia and coincided with the launch of the Brand Scotland initiative in Malaysia and Singapore.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Murray was accompanied by Acting High Commissioner at the British High Commission in Kuala Lumpur David Wallace, and was welcomed by Provost and Chief Executive Officer of Heriot-Watt University Malaysia Professor Mushtak Al-Atabi, alongside members of the university’s leadership team and the British High Commission. A highlight of the visit was an engaging discussion with Murray, moderated by Heriot-Watt University Malaysia Student Association president Pearlyn Tan. The Brand Scotland initiative and The GoGlobal programme, an inter-campus transfer programme available only for Heriot-Watt students
, were among the discussion topics.
The visit also included an exclusive interview with Bernama, which touched on the collaboration between Malaysia and Scotland in various fields. In the interview, Murray emphasised the significant potential for strengthening bilateral relations through collaboration in sectors such as green technology, research and development which would benefit both nations. Commenting on opportunities between both countries, he said Scotland and Malaysia are exploring opportunities for collaboration in the green technology sector, aligning with the global push toward a sustainable and clean energy future. Murray said fostering innovation through international partnerships will be key to both nations’ success in the global green energy race.
Murray noted that green technologies are significant worldwide opportunities and highlighted the UK Labour government’s mission to achieve clean power by 2030. He stated that working in partnership with other countries in terms of innovation, resear
ch and development, inward investment, and leveraging worldwide opportunities is essential to succeed in becoming an energy superpower. He further explained that skills in oil and gas, abundant in both nations, can be repurposed for the green energy transition, and transferring technology and knowledge is crucial for developing the offshore wind and renewable industry.
When asked about key areas to expand trade between Malaysia and Scotland, Murray highlighted the strategic importance of ‘Brand Scotland’ in forging deeper connections, particularly in countries like Malaysia, where the nations share a long-standing historical relationship. He elaborated that these initiatives aim to create more meaningful, mutually beneficial alliances through research, innovation, and knowledge transfer in addition to increasing commerce. He stressed the importance of expanding Scotland’s trading footprint and leveraging historical relationships to explore future opportunities.
Meanwhile, Professor Mushtak expressed the uni
versity’s delight in welcoming Murray to the Malaysia campus, where it provides students with a world-class, international learning experience. He highlighted that Heriot-Watt University focuses on delivering high-quality British education and nurturing purpose-driven leaders equipped to shape the future. He added that the visit by the Secretary of State for Scotland underscores the vital role education plays in bridging cultures and empowering future generations to lead with purpose, showcasing how global partnerships in education can prepare future leaders to tackle the world’s greatest challenges.