Indonesia, Malaysia Accelerate Higher Education Cooperation

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia and Malaysia have reaffirmed their commitment to accelerate the completion of a draft memorandum of understanding (MoU) on higher education cooperation to strengthen collaboration between universities in both countries. The framework is expected to pave the way for the establishment of a joint academic consortium that would expand academic exchanges, joint programs, and knowledge sharing.

Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology, Brian Yuliarto, made the statement at the 69th National Day of Malaysia celebration on Tuesday September 15, 2026. Around 11,000 Indonesian students are currently studying in Malaysia, reflecting the close educational ties between the two countries.

“Building on this long-standing cooperation, both countries remain committed to accelerating the completion of the draft memorandum of understanding on cooperation in higher education,” Brian said in his remarks. He said the cooperation was important to create more educational opportunities for young people in both countries.

As part of the MoU, which is still being finalized, Brian proposed the establishment of a Joint Indonesia–Malaysia Academic Consortium. The consortium is expected to strengthen collaboration among higher education institutions through academic exchanges, joint programs, and knowledge sharing.

“I believe that the establishment of a joint Indonesia–Malaysia academic consortium under this framework will strengthen collaboration among our higher education institutions, while creating broader opportunities for academic exchanges, joint programs, and knowledge sharing,” Brian said. He added that stronger academic networks between the two countries could enrich educational experiences and support the development of university capacity.

Educational cooperation between Indonesia and Malaysia has a long history, including the signing of a joint agreement on education and culture in 1972. This foundation provides a basis for both countries to expand cooperation while strengthening people-to-people ties through education.

Brian also expressed confidence that cooperation in higher education, science, and technology could serve as a foundation for developing new areas of collaboration. By upholding solidarity, mutual respect, and mutual benefit, the cooperation is expected to contribute to the well-being of the people of both countries and to a more harmonious, prosperous, and resilient ASEAN.