Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah (UMPSA) is stepping into the global spotlight with its innovative Edu-Tourism Programme, aimed at attracting international students and transforming the university into a vibrant hub of cultural exchange. This initiative is designed to enrich the campus with diverse global perspectives while promoting Malaysia’s unique heritage.
Spearheaded by Vice-Chancellor Prof Datuk Dr. Yuserrie Zainuddin, the Edu-Tourism Programme seeks to draw students from around the globe to immerse themselves in Malaysian culture, education, and politics. “Our goal is to attract students from abroad to learn about Malaysian culture, education, and politics. These students will gain valuable insights and then continue their studies,” said Prof Datuk Dr. Yuserrie. “By increasing the influx of foreign students through inbound programmes, we aim to enhance our university’s diversity and global presence. While we also have outbound programmes for our students to study abroad, we are equally focused on welcoming foreign students to Malaysia”.
The Edu-Tourism initiative is more than just an educational exchange; it is a cultural experience wrapped in specially designed packages that highlight the richness of Malaysia and Pahang. This programme not only aims to foster international cooperation but also aligns with the Visit Malaysia Year 2026 agenda, which targets 26.1 million foreign tourists.
A standout element of this initiative is the participation of 50 international students from Beijing Polytechnic and Beifang Automotive Education Group (Beifang) in China. These students are currently engaged in English, culture, and heritage packages at UMPSA, providing them with a deep dive into the Malaysian way of life. This programme builds on the Malaysia-China Advanced TVET Education and Training Mobility Programme (MYCHAT), a collaboration between UMPSA, BAEG, and Tang International Education. MYCHAT has already seen Malaysian youth travel to China for high-level skills training, and now it is bringing Chinese students to Malaysia for an equally enriching experience.
In addition to the Edu-Tourism Programme, UMPSA is also gearing up for its Alumni Day on August 12. This event is set to celebrate the achievements of alumni who have made significant contributions to the university, serving as inspiration and role models for current students.
With these initiatives, UMPSA is not just enhancing its academic landscape but also setting the stage for a more interconnected and diverse academic environment. Prof Datuk Dr. Yuserrie highlighted that UMPSA’s innovative approach to education and cultural exchange is making it a place where students from all corners of the world can come to learn and grow. This strategic push into Edu-Tourism underscores UMPSA’s commitment to becoming a beacon of cultural and educational excellence, drawing international talent and fostering a globally inclusive campus.
