Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) and Shinshu University have forged a groundbreaking partnership that promises to reshape international academic collaboration in Southeast Asia. Moreover, this strategic alliance comes at a pivotal moment when Malaysia is positioning itself as a key player in the global semiconductor industry through advanced materials research and nanotechnology innovation.
USM and Shinshu University Strengthen Academic Ties Through Strategic Partnership
On August 6, 2025, a significant milestone in international education was achieved when USM and Japan’s prestigious Shinshu University signed a comprehensive Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The ceremony, held at the Auditorium Murad Mohd Noor at Sains@USM, marked the beginning of an ambitious collaboration designed to advance research, education, and innovation on a global scale.
Distinguished witnesses to this historic moment included the Consul-General of Japan in Penang, His Excellency Mr. Shinya Machida; USM Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dato’ Seri Ir. Dr. Abdul Rahman Mohamed; President of Shinshu University, Professor Dr. Soichiro Nakamura; and USM Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research and Innovation, Professor Dr. Habibah A Wahab.
Framework for Comprehensive Academic Cooperation
This strategic partnership establishes a robust framework encompassing several key areas of collaboration:
- Academic mobility programs for students and faculty
- Joint research initiatives in cutting-edge fields
- Specialized training programmes
- Extensive knowledge exchange opportunities
Furthermore, the agreement paves the way for continued trilateral collaboration with Toyohashi University of Technology, effectively strengthening the academic corridor between Malaysia and Japan. This multi-institutional approach demonstrates the commitment to creating a comprehensive network of educational excellence.
Vision for Global Challenge Solutions
During his welcoming remarks, Abdul Rahman emphasized the longstanding collaboration between USM and Japanese institutions. He highlighted the critical importance of knowledge diplomacy and joint innovation in addressing pressing global challenges. These challenges include climate change mitigation, energy security enhancement, and sustainable development initiatives that require international cooperation and expertise sharing.
World-Renowned Expert Delivers Commemorative Address
The ceremony gained additional significance with the presence of Professor Dr. Morinobu Endo from the Aqua Regeneration Institute at Shinshu University. As one of the world’s leading nanotechnology experts, Professor Endo delivered a commemorative talk titled “Nanocarbon Science and Applications: Toward Sustainability and the Century of Water.”
Professor Endo’s pioneering work in carbon nanotubes (CNTs) has revolutionized multiple industries. His groundbreaking research has transformed fields such as energy storage systems, water purification technologies, and green hydrogen systems. These innovations align perfectly with Malaysia’s strategic push towards building a resilient and sustainable technological future.
Professor Endo’s contributions include breakthrough innovations in reverse osmosis (RO) membrane technologies and sustainable water-energy systems, earning him prestigious awards including the Medal with Purple Ribbon from the Japanese government and the Charles E. Pettinos Award.
Strategic Alignment with Malaysia’s Semiconductor Ambitions
The timing of this collaboration proves particularly strategic as Malaysia embarks on its ambitious National Semiconductor Strategy (NSS). This comprehensive initiative aims to position the country as a strategic player in the global semiconductor value chain, requiring advanced research capabilities and international partnerships.
Both USM and Shinshu University are committed to contributing meaningfully through frontier research in advanced materials and nanotechnology. This collaboration will provide Malaysia with access to cutting-edge research methodologies and technological innovations essential for semiconductor industry development.
APEX Framework and Research Excellence
As a leading research university operating under Malaysia’s APEX framework, USM continues to drive internationalization and research excellence initiatives. The renewed partnership with Shinshu University will foster impactful knowledge sharing opportunities and empower the next generation of scientists and engineers both in Malaysia and internationally.
Unlike traditional academic agreements, this MoU represents a comprehensive approach to knowledge transfer. It encompasses not only research collaboration but also practical applications that can directly benefit both nations’ technological advancement goals.
Gateway to Transformative Future Cooperation
This partnership signifies much more than a formal diplomatic agreement between two institutions. On the flip side, it represents a gateway to deeper cooperation, shared purpose, and a collective vision for creating a sustainable and technologically empowered future. The collaboration will enable both universities to leverage their respective strengths and expertise areas.
The agreement establishes a foundation for long-term cooperation that extends beyond traditional academic boundaries. It creates opportunities for innovative research projects, student exchange programs, and joint initiatives that address real-world challenges facing both Malaysia and Japan.
This groundbreaking partnership between USM and Shinshu University represents a significant step forward in international academic collaboration. By combining expertise in nanotechnology, advanced materials, and sustainable development, both institutions are positioned to make meaningful contributions to global challenges while advancing their respective nations’ technological capabilities. The success of this partnership will likely serve as a model for future international collaborations in Southeast Asia’s rapidly evolving educational landscape.
