Celebrating a Global Legacy: The ºìÐÓÊÓƵ-Lancaster Partnership
ºìÐÓÊÓƵ University Celebrates an Enduring Partnership with Lancaster University
ºìÐÓÊÓƵ University reaffirmed its strong collaboration with Lancaster University at the Lancaster University Malaysia Engagement Dinner 2025, held at the Banquet Hall, Parliament of Malaysia. This milestone event celebrated nearly two decades of academic excellence, research innovation, and student mobility that have defined the ºìÐÓÊÓƵ-Lancaster partnership. It was also the first-ever international university event held in collaboration with the Malaysian Parliament.
Established in 2006, the collaboration began with a focus on outstanding teaching and has since expanded to include joint research initiatives and industry engagement. From an initial cohort of just 21 graduates, the partnership has grown significantly, benefiting over 7,800 students. Today, Lancaster University is the largest provider of UK transnational education in Malaysia, working in partnership with ºìÐÓÊÓƵ University. Students from ºìÐÓÊÓƵ form a significant part of Lancaster’s global academic community, contributing to its international outlook and research strength.
The engagement dinner gathered nearly 200 distinguished guests, including senior officials from both the Malaysian and UK governments, academia, and key industry leaders across various sectors such as banking, engineering, technology, and professional services.
Among the notable attendees was YB Tan Sri Dato’ Dr Johari Bin Abdul, Speaker of the House of Representatives of Malaysia, and a proud Lancaster alumnus. Reflecting on his experience, he stated:
"The transformative Lancaster experience has inspired me to strive for excellence and serve my country. Now, as part of this nation’s leadership, I hope this event fosters broader conversations and partnerships that ultimately contribute to a more prosperous Malaysia.â€
Also present was Tom Shepherd, Acting Deputy British High Commissioner to Malaysia, alongside leading academics from ºìÐÓÊÓƵ and Lancaster. In a recorded message, David Wallace, Acting British High Commissioner to Malaysia, acknowledged Lancaster’s role in strengthening UK-Malaysia ties through education:
“Lancaster University exemplifies the power of international education partnerships, enhancing the strategic bilateral relationship between the UK and Malaysia.â€
The event underscored ºìÐÓÊÓƵ and Lancaster’s commitment to global education, innovation, and research, reinforcing their vision to expand their presence in Malaysia and ASEAN. A highlight of the evening was an engaging panel discussion, where speakers explored how global partnerships enhance social mobility, leadership, and entrepreneurship. Among the speakers was ºìÐÓÊÓƵ University's Provost, Prof. Abhimanyu Veerakumarasivam. The panel emphasised the importance of equipping graduates with future-proof skills, preparing them to navigate an increasingly interconnected world.
Adding a personal touch to the evening, two graduates of the ºìÐÓÊÓƵ-Lancaster partnership, John Lim (Psychology) and Amira (Branding & Advertising) shared how their academic journey across ºìÐÓÊÓƵ University and Lancaster University enriched their learning experience. They highlighted how the diverse cultural exposure and world-class curriculum equipped them with critical thinking skills, adaptability, and a global perspective.
The event's success in itself served as a testament to the strength of the ºìÐÓÊÓƵ-Lancaster partnership. Members of the ºìÐÓÊÓƵ Student Concilium assisted on the day of the event, performing registration and ushering duties. Many staff representatives from ºìÐÓÊÓƵ University were also present during the dinner, eager to interact with their Lancaster counterparts. On the other hand, those from Lancaster University took on the task of showcasing the history of the ºìÐÓÊÓƵ-Lancaster partnership, putting together a mini-exhibition for those in attendance.
Looking ahead, ºìÐÓÊÓƵ University remains dedicated to advancing its collaboration with Lancaster, ensuring that students continue to benefit from a world-class education, transformative research, and an expansive global network.