CEO Insights Magazine

This tech-ade demands global citizens. Universities with a global vision must house students from vivid cultures and backgrounds. International collaborations are crucial in engendering global citizens, enabling universities to remain competitive, relevant, and impactful in today’s interconnected world. In alignment with Malaysia’s National Higher Education Strategic Plan, particularly the Pelan Pembangunan Pendidikan Malaysia (Pendidikan Tinggi) 2015–2025, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) is steadfast in its commitment to internationalization. This includes strengthening global partnerships, enhancing cross-border mobility, and fostering inclusive and multicultural academic environments, which are key aspirations outlined by the Ministry of Higher Education (MoHE).

Since 2016, Dr Ariffin has advised top university leadership on international strategies. His efforts not only enrich UTM’s global engagement but also reinforce Malaysia’s position as a preferred global education hub, in line with MoHE’s internationalization agenda. Below is an excerpt from CEO Insights Asia's interview with Dr Ariffin.

Tell us how UTM International plays a key role in leading internationalization efforts in Malaysia.

UTM is one of Malaysia’s Research Universities and plays a pivotal role in advancing the country’s inter­nationalization agenda. Through UTM International, the university leads its own initiatives while support­ing other Malaysian institutions. Both the former Vice- Chancellor, Prof. Datuk Dr Ahmad Fauzi Ismail, and the current Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Dr Mohd Shafry Mohd Rahim, have supported this vision aligned with Malay­sia Education Blueprint–further underscoring UTM’s influence in national higher education development.

I coordinate these efforts, holding multiple key positions that reflect institutional and national-level contributions. I was appointed by the Ministry of Higher Education as Malaysia’s first appointed Erasmus+ National Focal Point (ENFP). I also represent UTM as the sole Malaysian university member on the Executive Committee of the Asia-Pacific Association for International Education (APAIE). My leadership is further amplified through the role as Chairman of the Malaysian Universities International Directors Committee (JKPA).

Internationally, UTM founded and leads the Asia Technological University Network (ATU-Net), now with over 50 member institutions, with me serving as its Executive Director. UTM is also Malaysia’s only university in EURAS and the World Technology Universities Network (WTUN). In 2027, UTM will host the prestigious APAIE Conference and continues its leadership through the UTM University Presidents Forum (UTM-UPF). As editor of the first-ever "Guidebook for Internationalization Practitioners in Higher Education" in Malaysia, I also endeavor to contribute with my thought leadership.

How does campus life help students grow as global citizens, both personally and professionally?

UTM is a preferred destination for international students, and promotes “Internationalization at Home (I@H)”. This ensures even local students gain global exposure. Currently, UTM hosts over 30,000 students, including more than 5,000 international students from 102 countries. I@H provides global interaction without leaving the country with nearly 100 programs implemented under this initiative.

UTM International supports student welfare, especially integration for international students. With support from the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Dr Mohd Shafry Mohd Rahim, UTM has secured significant funding for global mobility. There are over 300 bilateral agreements and 22 alliances supporting academic excellence and global engagement.

From 2023 to 2025, UTM allocated RM3.9 million for student mobility. In the same period, UTM also secured over RM450,000 in Erasmus+ funding, supporting 7 students and 21 staff mobilities. These figures reflect UTM’s active participation in global learning networks.

How does the university help instill a spirit of responsibility and a habit of contributing towards the betterment of society?

UTM adopts the GUCI (Government, University, Community, and Industry) model. Social responsibility is emphasized through University Social Responsibility (USR) activities involving both local and international students. A key requirement is that international student activities include USR components to ensure meaningful community contribution.

Since 2023, over 100 of USR-related programs has been organized under the Student Experience initiative. These initiatives are supported through various platforms under the “University for Society” umbrella, including the GUCI collaboration model, the Department of Student Affairs (HEPA), the International Student Society (ISS), and the Student Experience unit at UTM International, each playing a unique role in connecting students with community needs and societal challenges.

How does the university drive impact through its research programs and bring global perspectives into these programs?

One of UTM’s key research strategies is the establish­ment of satellite laboratories with international part­ners. These labs support joint research, postgraduate co-supervision, and collaborative publications. It’s a comprehensive approach that multiplies impact, es­sentially achieving several outcomes through a single, well-structured initiative. UTM is a leading Malaysian university in cross-regional research engagement, el­evating its global research profile.

What are the various opportunities it provides for students to engage with the industry ecosystem?

UTM bridges academia and industry through the Center for Community and Industry Network (CCIN). This one-stop center ensures alignment of research and education with real-world demands. All undergraduates undergo a 12-week internship. UTM has allocated RM480,000 to support international internship placements. This initiative significantly boosts graduate employability, currently stands at 100 percent within six months of graduation.

More importantly, it reflects UTM’s commitment to innovating sustainable solutions. As emphasized by the Minister of Higher Education, YB Dato’ Seri Diraja Dr Zambry Abd Kadir, “Mobility is not just about movement, it is about shared experience, mutual discovery, and collaborative growth”. At UTM, we embrace this spirit by nurturing the mobility of minds, thus empowering students to grow, connect, and co-create meaningful change across borders, disciplines, and industries.

Assoc. Prof. Dr Mohd Ariffin Abu Hassan, Director, UTM International Malaysia

Assoc. Prof. Dr Mohd Ariffin Abu Hassan has been involved in internationalization since 2016 through his various roles at UTM International. In 2023, he was appointed as the Director, leading UTM’s global engagement strategy with renewed momentum.

Hobbies: Long-distance motorcycle riding and travelling

Favorite book: Global engagement, and internationalization

Favorite cuisine: Asian

Favorite travel destination: Europe.

Awards:

Malaysia’s first Erasmus+ National Focal Point (ENFP) (2024), recognized by the European Union as the Most Active ENFP in Asia.