Proud moment: Zambry (centre) signing the plaque commemorating the opening of the offshore centre in Jakarta as Prof Mohd Ekhwan (third from right) looks on.
THE new Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) Indonesia Offshore Centre in Jakarta will ensure that youths in our neighbouring country can pursue internationally recognised academic programmes at Malaysian public and private higher education institutions.
UKM vice-chancellor Prof Datuk Dr Mohd Ekhwan Toriman said the offshore centre, launched recently by Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir, will deliver premier education across the Asian region.
The varsity, he said, has meticulously curated and selected top-tier programmes to be offered at the offshore centre.
The programmes were selected after dedicated research and collaborative workshops between UKM and its partners – Universiti Malaysia Kelantan, Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia, Universiti Utara Malaysia, Universiti Teknologi Mara, Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris, Multimedia University, University of Cyberjaya and Spectrum International University College – were conducted.
“UKM is the first public university to open this offshore centre.
“Alongside eight other universities, we will offer a diverse range of study programmes, including bachelor’s and master’s degrees, professional programmes, microcredentials and mobility programmes.
“These will cover various fields such as information technology, law, engineering, education, medicine and pharmacy.
“The programmes will be more flexible, focusing on courses that can be conducted online and through distance learning,” he said in a press release dated Aug 8.
He added that UKM has established itself as a front-runner in providing open and distance learning through offshore programmes.
“I believe these programmes will meet current market needs and enhance research capabilities in the future,” he said.
According to Prof Mohd Ekhwan, the offshore centre has received support from Zambry, who envisions a collaboration of public and private varsities under one roof, with all institutions sharing the same facilities and fostering cooperation rather than competition.
He added that the launch of the UKM Indonesia Offshore Centre will indirectly provide more access, data and opportunities for the ministry to explore and expand education opportunities.
“This aligns with the vision and mission of the Higher Education Ministry to provide access to quality education.
“It is also consistent with the ministry’s five main focus areas, which include the internationalisation of higher education.
“Additionally, students from across Asia can take this opportunity to pursue their studies in a new environment, gaining unique experiences and knowledge,” he concluded.
