Kota kinabalu: Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) and Jose Rizal University (JRU) of the Philippines have signed a virtual Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance academic cooperation in the Southeast Asian region. This agreement aims to bolster both institutions' engagement in higher education collaboration.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, UMS Vice-Chancellor Prof Datuk Dr Kasim Hj Mansor emphasized that this partnership would support UMS's standing in global rankings, such as the QS World University Rankings and Times Higher Education, while strengthening its designation as the 'Brain of Borneo'. The collaboration is spearheaded by UMS Faculty of Business, Economics and Accountancy (FPEP) and JRU's College of Hospitality and Tourism Management. It signifies a new chapter in the nearly decade-long relationship between the universities.

The MoU focuses on joint research initiatives in areas including the blue economy, digital transformation, and sustainable tourism. Additionally, the agreement encompasses the development of micro-credentials, credit transfer through digital certification, and the implementation of transnational education programs, which include joint degrees and industrial training.

Prof Dr Awangku Hassanal Bahar Pengiran Bagul, a lecturer at UMS FPEP, highlighted the culmination of efforts since 2017, which have included sustainability seminars and visiting professor programs. The MoU marks a significant milestone in their collaboration, offering staff and students enhanced learning experiences and internationally recognized skills.