Have you ever wondered how universities maintain connections with their graduates across continents? The establishment of international alumni chapters represents a strategic move to build lasting global networks that benefit both institutions and their former students.
UKM Establishes Alumni Chapter in China to Strengthen Global Networks
Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) has successfully launched its International Alumni Chapter China at the Malaysian Consulate General in Xi’an, China, on September 30, 2025. This milestone marks another significant step in the university’s efforts to expand its international alumni network and foster stronger connections with graduates worldwide.
Strategic Initiative Following Vice-Chancellor’s Vision
The establishment of the China chapter forms part of UKM’s broader strategy to strengthen its international alumni network. Meanwhile, this initiative directly responds to the Vice-Chancellor’s recommendations to continuously enhance strategic relationships with alumni across the globe.
Building on previous success, UKM had already established an Alumni Chapter in Indonesia before selecting Xi’an for its China operations. The choice of Xi’an wasn’t arbitrary—it was based on the active alumni population in the region, the city’s strategic location, and the growing academic cooperation with Chinese institutions and industries.
Expected Contributions and Strategic Benefits
Through this new chapter, alumni are expected to contribute back to the university in various meaningful ways. As a result, UKM anticipates receiving expertise, funding, and strategic networks that will enhance its global standing and capabilities.
According to Prof Emeritus Dato’ Dr. Mohamad Abd. Razak, Chairman of UKM’s Board of Directors, the establishment of the Alumni Chapter China is expected to serve as a strategic bridge. Furthermore, he emphasized that this initiative will foster closer relationships between the university, alumni, and various stakeholders in China while strengthening UKM’s role as a competitive national university on the global stage.
“The Alumni Chapter China is expected to become a strategic bridge in fostering close relationships between the university, alumni and various stakeholders in China, while strengthening UKM’s role as a competitive national university on the global stage.”
Grand Launch Ceremony and Distinguished Attendees
The launch ceremony attracted approximately 90 distinguished guests, creating a significant networking opportunity for all participants. For example, attendees included the Malaysian Consul General in Xi’an and a high-level UKM delegation led by Prof. Ts. Dr. Norinsan Kamil Othman, who serves as Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Student and Alumni Affairs.
The delegation also featured key figures from UKM’s Alumni Relations Centre, including Director Dr. Roslan Ja’afar and Deputy Director (Activities and Networks) Dr. Syajarul Imna Mohd Amin. Their presence underscored the university’s commitment to maintaining strong alumni relations strategies across international markets.
Academic Collaborations and Future Partnerships
Beyond the chapter establishment, the UKM delegation conducted an Alumni Trail and official visits to several prestigious universities. These included Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an University of Finance and Economics, and Xidian University, where they signed Letters of Intent (LoI) that open doors for future academic cooperation and research collaboration.
Additionally, the delegation participated in the Eurasian Economic Forum 2025, an international forum that brings together economic, academic, and industry leaders from across Eurasia. This participation demonstrates UKM’s commitment to engaging with global academic partnerships and staying current with international economic trends.
Setting the Foundation for Future Expansion
Prof Emeritus Dato’ Dr. Mohamad Abd. Razak expressed hope that this China chapter initiative will serve as a catalyst and reference point for establishing UKM alumni chapters in other countries. Consequently, this strategic approach positions UKM to build a comprehensive global alumni network that supports both graduates and the institution’s international objectives.
The successful establishment of UKM’s Alumni Chapter China represents more than just an administrative milestone—it’s a strategic investment in building lasting international relationships. As universities increasingly compete on a global scale, these alumni networks become invaluable assets that provide expertise, funding opportunities, and strategic partnerships. For UKM graduates living abroad and prospective students considering international education, this development signals the university’s commitment to maintaining lifelong connections that transcend geographical boundaries.
