UPMS, Tokyo NODAI deepen ties through student research, cultural exchange
BINTULU (Aug 28): Universiti Putra Malaysia Sarawak (UPMS) and Tokyo University of Agriculture (Tokyo NODAI) are strengthening academic and cultural ties through the second edition of their Japan-Malaysia Student Research and Cultural Exchange programme. Known as JM-Exchange 2026, the event brings together 22 students ― 10 from Tokyo NODAI and 12 from UPMS ― for [...] The post UPMS, Tokyo NODAI…
Bintulu (August 28): Universiti Putra Malaysia Sarawak (UPMS) and Tokyo University of Agriculture (Tokyo NODAI) have bolstered academic and cultural collaborations via their second JM-Exchange 2026 programme. This initiative, comprising 22 students – 10 from Tokyo NODAI and 12 from UPMS – emphasizes collaborative learning, research, environmental sustainability, and cultural exchange.
The program, led by UPMS director Prof Dr Shahrul Razid Sarbini, inaugurated the event in Ruai Sri Meranti on Wednesday, running from August 25 to September 7.
The 2026 edition builds upon the inaugural JM-Exchange in 2025, which included 18 students. Tokyo NODAI's 10 participants are guided by Prof Dr Mami Irie and Dr Maky Otsuka, while UPMS students serve as programme and learning partners. Prior to the physical encounter in Bintulu, participants engaged in two months of online interaction and preparation.
UPMS director Shahrul emphasized the importance of international student mobility in broadening perspectives and fostering lasting relationships. Programme director Dr Keeren Sundara Rajoo outlined the event's activities, including joint lectures, research work, field visits, community and industry engagement, and cultural activities.
A notable highlight is a visit to Niah, where participants spend an overnight stay at an Iban longhouse, immersing themselves in Sarawak's biodiversity, culture, and socio-economic environment.
The program's sustainability focus is evident in its zero-waste mobility objective, encouraging the reduction of disposable items and responsible resource management. UPMS and Tokyo NODAI continue to strengthen their institutional ties through student mobility, experiential learning, and joint research, paving the way for broader academic exchanges and international cooperation.
Attendees included Assoc Prof Dr Noorasmah Saupi from UPMS's Faculty of Agricultural Science and Forestry, UPMS administration head Noor Hakim Ahmad, and Deputy Director Siti Rajanah Abdul Aziz from UPMS Centre for Strategy and Corporate Relations.
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