In a demonstration of international collaboration, the Faculty of Business, Economics, and Accountancy at Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) recently hosted a Mobility Exchange Initiative event, fostering connections between Huaqiao University and UMS.

The event, held at the Confucius Institute, brought together prominent figures from academia, commerce and religious research to explore potential avenues for cooperation.

Chaired by Prof Ts Dr Chong Khim Phin, director of the Confucius Institute at UMS, the event was graced by esteemed guests, including Datuk Frankie Liew, president of the Sabah China Chamber of Commerce (SCCC), and Professor Zhang Yudong, former Vice President of Huaqiao University.

The diverse group of attendees underscored the broad spectrum of collaboration possibilities between the two institutions.

The discussions delved into various areas of potential collaboration, highlighting the following key points:

Mobility Programs: Both institutions expressed interest in establishing mobility programs for students and academics. This exchange initiative seeks to facilitate cultural immersion and academic enrichment, promoting a deeper understanding between Malaysian and Chinese students.

Research Collaboration: The participants explored opportunities for collaborative research between Malaysia and China on overseas Chinese religion and culture. This initiative aims to deepen the understanding of cultural heritage and foster academic cooperation.

50th Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations: With the year 2024 marking the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Malaysia and China, the participants discussed potential celebratory events and collaborative projects to commemorate this significant milestone.

Cultural Training: Recognizing the importance of cultural understanding, there were talks about implementing cultural training programs to strengthen Chinese culture and enhance cross-cultural communication.

Comparative Studies: Dr Zaifuddin Md Rasip suggested potential activities in comparative religious studies. This proposal aims to foster a deeper understanding of the diverse religious landscapes in Malaysia and China, promoting tolerance and interfaith dialogue.

During the event. Professor Zhang provided intriguing trivia, mentioning that an estimated 30,000 Chinese students are currently pursuing various academic programs in mobility activities in Thailand.

The delegates expressed admiration for Sabah's unique culture and cuisine, deeming it suitable for religious and cultural exchange initiatives.

Dr Beatrice Lim Fui Yee from UMS Global Office recommended undergraduate and postgraduate programs to the delegates from Huaqiao University, emphasizing the academic opportunities available at UMS.

In a symbolic gesture of appreciation an d collaboration, Prof Chong exchanged tokens of appreciation with the delegation from Huaqiao University.

This gesture highlighted the mutual respect and commitment to strengthen ties between the two institutions. In a show of gratitude, Dr Sharifah Milda Amirul represented Associate Professor Dr Mohd Rahimie Abd Karim to express thanks to Liew for his continuous efforts in promoting educational collaboration between Sabah and China.

Datu Razali Datuk Datu Hj Eranza, International Mobility Coordinator stated that mobility can be made possible and more plausible with the assistance of the Chamber and industrialists. This acknowledgment emphasized the role of organizations and industry leaders in making cross-border mobility initiatives a reality.

Andy Lee Chen Hiung, director of UMS Accounting Centre expressed hope to close the knowledge gap between the accounting profession in China and the accounting profession in Malaysia because our markets are closely connected.

This forward-looking statement underlines the importance of shared knowledge and expertise to enhance professional practices and foster stronger economic ties between the two nations.

Also present who added significant insights to the discussions were Chua Man Kui, deputy president of SCCC; Professor Fan Zhengyi, director of Overseas Chinese Religion and Fujian and Taiwan Religious Research Center at Huaqiao University; Associate Professor Liu Shouzheng, researcher at the Overseas Chinese Religion Research Center and Fujian and Taiwan Huaqiao University; Associate Professor Zhong Darong, director of Huaqiao University Malaysia Research Center, National Research Base of China's National Ethnic Affairs Commission; Dr Suhailah Abdul Muin, Head of Program for Islamic Studies at Faculty of Islamic Studies; Dr Mohd Nur Hidayat Hasbollah Hajimin, lecturer at Faculty of Islamic Studies.

The Mobility Exchange Initiative stands as a testament to the commitment of both institutions in fostering international cooperation, bridging cultural gaps, and promoting academic and economic partnerships between Huaqiao University and Universiti Malaysia Sabah. As these discussions materialize into concrete collaborations, the impact on education, research, and cultural understanding promises to be profound and far reaching.

Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) is ready to assist in developing the halal industry in Hong Kong through its expertise and resources.

This was stated by the Dean of the Faculty of Food Science and Nutrition, Prof. Madya Ts. Dr. Hasmadi Mamat, highlighting that the initiative will be driven by collaboration with GBA Halal Certification Centre Ltd.

“The partnership includes consultancy services in halal analytical laboratory expertise, with the involvement of OriGene DNA Testing Company Ltd. for DNA and alcohol analysis in halal food products available in the Hong Kong market.

“Additionally, as a halal training provider registered under JAKIM, UMS is prepared to offer various halal training programs, such as halal awareness courses, halal competency courses, executive halal programs, and halal auditing training for the halal industry players in Hong Kong,” he said.

Dr. Hasmadi made the statement following the signing of a letter of agreement between UMS, represented by its Halal Services and Research Centre (PPPH), and GBA Halal Certification Centre Ltd., during the Halal Pavilion 2024 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre.

He also emphasized that UMS would provide consultancy and advisory services in halal assurance system management to ensure compliance with established halal standards.

Meanwhile, GBA General Manager, Sharifa Leung, expressed optimism about the collaboration’s impact on advancing the halal ecosystem in Hong Kong.

“We deeply appreciate UMS for offering support and assistance in developing the halal industry here.

“My hope is for Hong Kong’s halal industry to grow significantly in the future. I also wish for both Muslim and non-Muslim communities in Hong Kong to benefit from this collaboration, particularly by increasing awareness and knowledge about halal,” she said.

The Nutri-Connect 1.0 programme held by Faculty of Food Science and Nutrition (FSMP), Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) at Kampung Libang, Ranau recently was an effort by the university to enhance healthy eating education among the communities.

According to the FSMP Head of Nutrition Programme, Dr Norliyana Aris, the programme was aimed to provide nutrition education to bring about healthier and happier communities, as well as to offer hands-on learning experiences to the students.

“It is in line with the strategy of the National Nutrition Policy 2.0 which aims to empower individuals, families, and communities as agents of change and take ownership of their nutritional well-being.

“Various activities were conducted, including nutrition screening, nutrition counselling, healthy plate and food pyramid education, physical activity challenge, guess the sugar in drinks and salt in food, and healthy cooking, which took part by more than 50 participants from all age groups, women and men,” she said.

She added that the programme gets positive response from the villagers, where they mention that such activities provided knowledge and raised awareness, and hope that the programme will be conducted continuously in the future.

“Hence, we aim to empower the community to become Health Nutrition Ambassadors in Nutri-Connect 2.0 in the future. 

“Participants will be invited to Train-the-Trainers activities which will provide knowledge and skills for a healthy lifestyle and sustainable nutrition,” says Dr Norliyana.

Meanwhile, the programme coordinator, Dr. Noor Atiqah Aizan Abdul Kadir, who also hails from Ranau, pointed out that healthy food is the foundation for good health and wellbeing. 

“This programme provided insights into self and family care through good nutrition which takes into account local culture.

“We hope that this programme is beneficial to the community in Kampung Libang, Ranau, to bring about healthier eating and a positive impact on their health and wellbeing,” she said.

Also involved in the programme, Nutrition Programme lecturers, Dr. Nur Hanisah Azmi, and Dr. Ramlah George @ Mohd Rosli, as well as 28 Nutrition students who also conduct the activities throughout the programme. 

Renowned preacher, scholar, and Islamic figure, Ustaz Dr. Abdul Somad Batubara, has been appointed as an Adjunct Professor at the Faculty of Islamic Studies (FIS), Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS).

The appointment letter was presented by UMS Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic and International), Professor Dr. Shahril Yusof, on behalf of UMS Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Datuk Dr. Kasim Hj. Mansor, to Ustaz Dr. Abdul Somad in a brief ceremony held at the Eureka Room, UMS Labuan International Campus, recently.

The ceremony was also attended by Sabah's Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation, Datuk Dr. Mohd Arifin Mohd Arif; Director of UMS KAL, Associate Professor Dr. Mohd Rizal Abdul Hamid; FIS Dean, Professor Dr. Mohd Dahlan Hj. A. Malek, and UMS officials.

In his speech, Prof. Shahril stated that this recognition reflects the outstanding achievements and invaluable contributions of Ustaz Dr. Abdul Somad in the field of Islamic studies, both locally and internationally.

“Ustaz Dr. Abdul Somad Batubara is not only a prominent scholar but also a thinker dedicated to the advancement of knowledge and education in Indonesia, Malaysia, the Nusantara region, and globally, whether through social media or in-person lectures.

“Therefore, his appointment as an Adjunct Professor is not merely a personal honor but also a recognition of the academic excellence he has attained,” he said.

Shahril added that Abdul Somad’s experience in Islamic studies could contribute significantly to FIS by enhancing the quality of teaching and research as well as aiding in the development of relevant and high-quality curricula aligned with contemporary needs.

“May the appointment of Ustaz Dr. Abdul Somad Batubara as an Adjunct Professor at FIS inspire the university community, particularly students, to continue striving for excellence in their respective fields.

“God willing, his presence will bring positive synergy, creativity, and a spirit of collaboration that will enrich the academic journey of the Faculty of Islamic Studies and Universiti Malaysia Sabah as a whole,” he said.