The Philippine Embassy, led by Ambassador Maria Angela Ponce, engaged in productive discussions with University Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS), led by Professor Dr. Hj Ahmad Hata bin Rasit, Vice Chancellor, Professor Dr. Puah Chin Hong, Chief Executive Officer, Ts. Dr. Hamimah Ujir, Director, and Mr. Thian Foong Fatt, Director, UNIMAS Global.

The Ambassador, joined by Consul General Roussell R. Reyes and Vice Consul Kirstoff T. Ocampo, received the UNIMAS delegation on 14 November 2024. They discussed collaborative efforts to promote partnership and exchanges in education and sustainable development and in coastal biodiversity, climate change, marine conservation, sustainable agriculture and aquaculture, food security, and cultural diplomacy. Both sides emphasized the importance of creating a platform for information sharing and research collaboration across Southeast Asia, with a focus on indigenous biodiversity and the cultivation of traditional and indigenous knowledge.

They also agreed to further explore the promotion of Philippine studies at UNIMAS, including through having a dedicated Philippine section in the university’s library or the introduction of courses on Filipino language and culture. Dr. Ahmad welcomed the idea, noting that such an initiative would help students gain a better understanding of diverse cultures and become “global citizens.”

Vice Chancellor Dr. Ahmad shared that UNIMAS already has established partnerships with institutions in the Philippines, such as the University of San Carlos and Lemery Colleges. He expressed a strong interest in expanding these collaborations, particularly in research, student and faculty exchanges. The potential partnership could also include mutual grants for research, the creation of learning centers, and exchange programs to further strengthen ties between the two countries.

Ambassador Ponce thanked UNIMAS for expressing interest in exploring potential collaborations with higher education institutions in the Philippines, as these partnerships would not only enhance the quality of education provided by both countries, but also foster deeper understanding and cultural appreciation as a result of enhanced people-to-people exchanges. END