Published:
A meeting was held at the Center for International Programs with the First Secretary of the Embassy of Malaysia in Kazakhstan, representatives of Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS), and leading Malaysian universities, including the University of Malaya (UM) and Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM).
The discussion focused on the prospects for deepening cooperation in the field of education and opportunities for Kazakhstani students. The Bolashak program, scientific internships, and other educational opportunities in Malaysia were presented during the meeting. Both parties also exchanged ideas regarding the Study in Kazakhstan and Study in Malaysia programs.
Mr. Mohd Idham Ahmat Zamri, First Secretary of the Embassy of Malaysia in Kazakhstan, emphasized the importance of cooperation:
"Kazakhstan and Malaysia share a very close relationship. Over 30 years of diplomatic relations, a solid foundation for mutually beneficial cooperation has been built, as evidenced by the visit of Malaysia’s Prime Minister to Astana this year."
The meeting was a continuation of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in September 2023, which outlines the framework for cooperation between EMGS and the Center for International Programs. The partnership highlights the importance of promoting educational opportunities, exchanging ideas, and collaborating in research.
Special attention was given to the inclusion of Malaysian universities in the list of recommended institutions for the Bolashak program and scientific internships. This opens new horizons for Kazakhstani students interested in studying in various priority areas. The parties also agreed to facilitate invitations for priority research internships and to ensure the participation of Malaysian universities in the upcoming educational exhibition.
It is worth noting that only 147 individuals have completed their education under the Bolashak program in Malaysia. The most popular field of study among Bolashak scholars is technical specialties, accounting for nearly 85%.
Key strengths of Malaysian universities:
University of Malaya (UM): Known for its academic excellence and contributions to research, especially in engineering, medicine, and social sciences. UM consistently ranks highly among Asian universities and is currently ranked 60th in the QS World University Rankings.
Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM): Specializes in agriculture, biotechnology, and environmental sciences. UPM is recognized for its innovative research and commitment to sustainable development, frequently ranking high among Malaysian and Asian universities. It currently holds the 158th position in the QS World University Rankings.
Mr. Tang Shyue Song, Marketing Director of EMGS, highlighted the importance of this collaboration:
"We are committed to making Malaysia a leading destination for international education. Cooperation with the Center for International Programs will expand opportunities for students and strengthen educational ties between our countries."
As a result of the meeting, it was decided to further explore the possibility of including Malaysian universities in the list of recommended institutions under the Bolashak program. This will create new opportunities for Kazakhstani students and researchers seeking to gain international experience and knowledge.