MIRI: Cambodia is keen to initiate a student exchange programme with Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia).
“Curtin Malaysia is a world-class university, and I believe Cambodian students would greatly benefit from studying here,” said Cambodia’s ambassador to Malaysia, Ouk
Chandara here on Jan 5.
“Let us work toward formalising an exchange programme through a Memorandum of Understanding.”
He expressed such interest during a courtesy visit to the university, stating that a student exchange programme would attract more students to explore the learning opportunities offered by Curtin Malaysia.
Also in the Cambidian delegation were Cambodian Trade Attaché Vith Panhnha and representatives of the Cambodia China Investment Development Association.
During the visit both Cambodia and Sarawak expressed enthusiasm for transformative initiatives aimed at empowering students, researchers and communities.
Welcoming the delegation, Curtin Malaysia chief executive cum Pro Vice Chancellor Professor Simon Leunig, highlighted education as a vital cornerstone of bilateral relations.
“Curtin Malaysia is committed to leveraging our position as a global university to drive collaboration, empower communities, and create innovative solutions for a sustainable future,” he said.
Leunig also emphasised Curtin Malaysia’s unique role as a regional hub for Curtin University and its contributions to advancing Asean partnerships in education, research, trade, and tourism.
Towards this end he pointed to the university’s fruitful collaboration with the Institute of Technology of Cambodia (ITC), one of Cambodia’s leading tertiary institutions, as an example of the tangible benefits of academic partnerships.
“Our partnership with ITC exemplifies the power of knowledge sharing and talent development,” he noted.
The visit also underscored growing ties between Miri and Phnom Penh, with discussions between Miri City Council and the Cambodian delegation exploring the potential for a Friendship City agreement.
Also present during the visit were Curtin Malaysia’s Senior Director of Future Students and External Engagement, Debora Caroline; Manager of Student Recruitment and Business Development (International), Stephanie Chew; and Dean of the School of Pre-U and Continuing Education (SPACE), Associate Prof. Fidella Tiew.
