Mataram, University of Mataram – University of Mataram (Unram) warmly welcomed the visit of the delegation of Universiti Malaysia Kelantan (UMK) in a discussion of potential international collaboration which took place in the Rector’s Conference Room, Unram Rectorate, on Thursday, January 9, 2025.

Rector of Unram, Prof. Ir. Bambang Hari Kusumo, M.Agr.St., Ph.D., in his speech expressed his gratitude for UMK’s first visit to Unram. “We are pleased to welcome you all. This is our first meeting with Universiti Malaysia Kelantan, and we hope this will be the beginning of a close collaboration,” he said.

Prof. Bambang on the occasion also gave an overview of Unram which continues to strive to become a World Class University. “Unram is open to collaboration, especially between the Faculty of Economics and Business Unram and the Faculty of Hospitality, Tourism, and Wellness UMK. We can collaborate in online teaching for international classes, joint conferences, and collaborative research. We need to sign a formal agreement first so that this cooperation can be expanded in the future,” he explained.

The Rector of Unram also emphasized the importance of collaboration in the field of tourism. “This collaboration can bring great benefits to both parties. Lombok, where Unram is located, is famous for its tourism sector, so it is the right choice for UMK to collaborate with Unram,” concluded Prof. Bambang.

Through his speech, online through Zoom Meeting, Prof. Madya Dr. Mohd. Fadil Bin Mohd Yusof, as Dean of the Faculty of Hospitality, Tourism, and Wellness UMK, expressed his gratitude for the warm welcome given by Unram. “UMK is a new public university in Malaysia that is committed to expanding international relations, especially in supporting the entrepreneurial development of our students,” he said.

The UMK delegation was led by Dr. Pavitira A/P Manogaran, Senior Lecturer from the Hospitality Department, Faculty of Hospitality, Tourism, and Wellness UMK. In the discussion, Dr. Pavitira conveyed collaboration opportunities in the form of joint degree programs in tourism and entrepreneurship, as well as expanding cooperation in various fields.

This discussion is expected to open opportunities for strategic cooperation between the two universities, strengthen academic relations, and support the development of the education and tourism sectors in both countries.