by Ts. Dr. Hazlini Dzinun
JAPAN – Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (UTHM) continues to reinforce its internationalization agenda through the Letter of Intent (LoI) signing between Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (UTHM) with Nagoya Institute of Technology (NITech) and Mie University.
The partnerships are expected to further enhance UTHM’s international visibility and reinforce its position as a leading TVET university in the region.
The signing was made during MIRAI SAKURA 26’ International Mobility Programme, held in Japan from 13 to 17 July 2026. The delegation of 10 Centre for Diploma Studies (CeDS) students was led by Ts. Dr. Hazlini Dzinun, Deputy Dean (Research, Publication and Development) and organized by the Diploma Student Association (PPD) in collaboration with the National Principles Secretariat (SRN).
The programme aimed to strengthen UTHM’s strategic international partnerships while providing students with first-hand exposure to Japan’s advanced research ecosystem, technological innovation, and engineering excellence.
Throughout the seven-day programme, the delegation visited the Nagoya Institute of Technology (NITech), Mie University, and the Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology, providing students with valuable learning experiences beyond the traditional classroom.
At NITech, the UTHM delegation received an official welcome from Professor Dr. Hihara Takehiko, Vice President for International Affairs, together with representatives from the International Affairs Office.
The visit included institutional presentations by both universities, followed by discussions on prospective collaborations in student mobility, academic exchange, joint research, and international programme development. Students also visited research laboratories specializing in nanomaterials and shot peening technology, gaining valuable insights into world-class research facilities and Japan’s strong culture of innovation.
The delegation subsequently visited Mie University, where they were welcomed by Professor Nobuyuki Imanishi, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, and Associate Professor Daisuke Mori from the Department of Applied Science. Participants toured the Battery Manufacturing Laboratory and the Polymer Synthesis Laboratory, providing exposure to cutting-edge research in advanced materials, energy technology, and sustainable engineering while opening opportunities for future academic and research collaboration.
Participants also visited the Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology, where they explored the evolution of Japan’s textile industry, Toyota’s technological innovations, and the philosophy of continuous improvement (Kaizen).
The MIRAI SAKURA 26’ International Mobility Programme has significantly strengthened UTHM’s global academic network while equipping students with international exposure, intercultural competencies, and leadership skills essential for the future workforce. Aligned with the UTHM Global Technopreneur University 2030 agenda, the programme demonstrates CeDS’ commitment to producing globally competitive TVET graduates who are well prepared to contribute to the advancement of the university, industry, and the nation’s sustainable development.
