IRELAND: Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Sarawak has strengthened academic and cultural ties in Dublin through the University Intercultural Exchange 2025 (UNITE25).
Rector Professor Dr Firdaus Abdullah led a UiTM Sarawak delegation of five staff and 11 students for a week-long programme beginning August 27, with strong support from the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts (MTCP).
Prof Firdaus said the programme positioned both Sarawak and Malaysia in global dialogues while empowering students and staff to broaden their international exposure.
“UNITE25 is more than a programme; it is a strategic platform for global visibility,” he said.
During a courtesy visit at the Malaysian Embassy in Dublin, the group met with Ambassador Wan Aznainizam Yusri Wan Abdul Rashid to explore collaborations with Irish institutions, particularly Trinity College Dublin (TCD).
“The meeting centred on strengthening academic collaborations, research initiatives and cultural exchanges with Irish institutions,” said the university in a statement.
A strategic session at the Trinity Centre for Asian Studies (TCAS) further examined opportunities in joint research, student mobility and potential Erasmus-linked projects.
UiTM Sarawak also raised interest in establishing itself as a regional centre for Asian studies.
“The delegation also visited the world-renowned Book of Kells Exhibition at TCD, deepening their appreciation of Ireland’s rich historical and cultural heritage, and enriching the intercultural objectives of UNITE25,” the statement added.
The visit coincided with Malaysia’s 68th National Day, where UiTM Sarawak participated in the Taste of Malaysia Festival at the Asia Market.
Performances, art displays, traditional games and a Sarawak-themed culinary showcase drew strong engagement from locals and international visitors.
The delegation concludes its engagements on September 4, reinforcing UiTM Sarawak’s aspiration to be globally renowned, locally rooted.
