Sunway University Champions Global Collaboration at THE Asia Universities Summit 2025
At the 2025 Times Higher Education (THE) Asia Universities Summit, Sunway University reinforced its position as a globally connected institution committed to international collaboration in education and research.
Speaking during a panel session, Sunway University president and vice-chancellor, Professor Sibrandes Poppema, highlighted the university’s strategic partnerships with some of the world’s top institutions. “There are many opportunities for research collaboration, student exchange and educational cooperation,” he said. Among its most prominent global partners are Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in the US, and the University of Cambridge in the UK. In addition, Sunway’s collaboration with Lancaster University (UK) and Arizona State University (US) enables students to earn multiple degree certificates.
Prof. Sibrandes emphasised that Sunway’s educational philosophy extends beyond academic achievement. “Our education is holistic – it’s not just about knowledge and skills. Equally important are values and mindset,” he noted. The university currently hosts around 11,400 students, with international students making up a third of the previous year’s intake.
The session also featured speakers from Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (UTP), Universiti Teknologi Brunei (UTB), and Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), who echoed the importance of cross-border collaboration in strengthening academic outcomes and industry ties.
Panelists:
- Professor Sibrandes Poppema, President and Vice-Chancellor, Sunway University
- Kar Keng Lim, Deputy Executive Director of Performance and Rating, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia
- Ena Kartina Abd Rahman, Assistant Vice-Chancellor for Academic Affairs, Universiti Teknologi Brunei
- Tong Boon Tang, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS
- Bhavit Mehta, Senior Content Manager for APAC, Times Higher Education (Chair)
