UTM and Brunei college ink co-operation deal
Tue, Aug 03, 2010
The Star/Asia News Network
JOHOR BARU: Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) has signed a memorandum of understanding with Brunei’s Kolej Universiti Perguruan Ugama Seri Begawan (Kupusb) that will enable their students to further their studies and conduct research and development in Islamic studies.
UTM vice-chancellor Prof Datuk Dr Zaini Ujang said the MoU was part of the university’s global outreach programme aimed at sending 5,000 students and staff for training overseas this year.
“The MoU will also enable us to send students and staff to Bandar Seri Begawan for a two-semester exchange programme, and vice-versa,” he said.
Better ties: Dr Masnon (second left) and Dr Zaini exchanging documents at the MoU signing in Johor Baru recently. Looking on is Dr Mohammad (centre).Dr Zaini added that to further enhance the programme, the university recently set up a new faculty of Islamic Civilisation.
“We hope to expand the faculty and add new programmes for postgraduate studies such as Halal Science.
“We aim to portray Islam in an innovative light,” he said.
He added that non-Muslims were encouraged to sign up for the programme.
Speaking at the signing of the MoU recently, Kupusb president Dr Masnon Ibrahim said the collaboration between the two universities would benefit students in terms of research and development and allow both institutions to learn from each other.
Brunei’s Minister of Religious Affairs Pengiran Dr Mohammad Pengiran Abd Rahman, who witnessed the ceremony, commended both institutions for forging the co-operation.
