RRI.CO.ID, Padang - Malaysia is positioning Indonesia as a key strategic partner in the development of higher education, underscoring the deep academic and cultural ties between the two neighbors.

During a visit to Padang, West Sumatra, on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, representative Megat Muhammad Samsul of Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS), highlighted Indonesia’s importance in Malaysia’s education landscape.

“Indonesia is a strategic partner for Malaysia in advancing higher education,” he said, as quoted by Antara, noting that more than 100,000 Indonesian alumni have studied in Malaysia, reflecting the strength of bilateral cooperation in the sector.

EMGS, operating under Malaysia’s Ministry of Higher Education, serves as a bridge between Malaysian universities and international institutions. It also manages student visa applications, which can be processed within two to five working days.

Out of Malaysia’s 400 universities, just over 300 are authorized to admit international students, following strict evaluations of facilities and program quality. Samsul emphasized that Malaysia prioritizes student development and program quality over global rankings.

“Partnerships are not just about signing MoUs but about creating tangible impacts,” he added.

Local leaders in Padang echoed the importance of international education opportunities. Mayor Fadly Amran said the city is committed to encouraging young people to study abroad through scholarship programs.

“We want to open greater opportunities for Padang’s best students to pursue education overseas, including through double-degree and co-funding schemes,” he explained.

At the university level, Efa Yonnedi, Rector of Universitas Andalas (UNAND), noted that the institution has already established collaborations with 30 Malaysian universities and industries. These include joint research, faculty exchanges, and partnerships such as with the University of Malaya in medicine.

“We can further strengthen cooperation, not only between universities but also involving local governments and international partners as showcases of higher education development,” Efa said.

He stressed the importance of building an ASEAN education hub, leveraging geographic proximity to boost student mobility. Proposed initiatives include joint and double-degree programs, semester-long credit earning, internships, and international community service projects.

The growing collaboration reflects a shared vision: to elevate higher education in Southeast Asia, foster innovation, and prepare graduates to compete in a globalized world. ***