INTERNATIONAL academic collaborations such as the one between INTI International University & Colleges and two Japanese universities are key to supporting Penang’s long-term development, says Deputy Chief Minister II Jagdeep Singh Deo.
“This is the kind of international collaboration that supports Penang’s long-term development, bringing together global academic expertise with a local institution deeply embedded in Penang’s talent and innovation ecosystem,” he said in his keynote address at the signing ceremony today.
Jagdeep said that as Penang continues to move up the value chain in sectors such as semiconductors, automation, digital technologies and sustainable industries, education and research play an increasingly critical role.
“As Penang’s economy continues to grow, education and research are critical in developing a skilled, future-ready workforce,” he said.
He noted that collaborations of this nature enable Penang-based students to gain exposure to global research environments while allowing international universities to engage more closely with the state’s technology-driven economy.
“We have over 500 multinational companies and numerous small and medium enterprises (SMEs) here,” he said.
According to Jagdeep, Penang’s industrial ecosystem spans 55 years. He added that the state is expanding development into new growth corridors such as Batu Kawan and Bertam in Kepala Batas.
Jagdeep, who oversees the human development, science and technology portfolio, stressed that talent development remains central to Penang’s competitiveness.
He added that the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) would open doors for the younger generation.
“When you sign this, you must understand what you are doing. You are giving opportunities to many of our boys and girls. You are giving them a chance for the future,” he said.
The MoU was signed between INTI International University & Colleges and Japan’s Toyohashi University of Technology (TUT) and Shinshu University at INTI International College Penang today.
The signing was witnessed by Jagdeep, the Consul-General of Japan in Penang His Excellency Shinya Machida, honorary consul of Mexico in Penang Datuk Yeoh Soon Hin, and INTI International College Penang chief executive Hemalatha Murugiah.
Also present at the ceremony were INTI International University & Colleges chief executive officer Dr Chong Kok Wai, Toyohashi University of Technology president Professor Dr Akihiro Wakahara and Shinshu University president Professor Dr Soichiro Nakamura.
Dr Chong, in his welcome address, said the collaboration reflects INTI’s commitment to international engagement.
“This collaboration demonstrates INTI’s focus on building international partnerships that support academic exchange, research collaboration and the development of future-ready talent,” he said.
“The collaboration covers academic and student exchanges, joint research initiatives, talent development programmes and cooperation in emerging academic fields, including advanced materials, renewable energy, robotics, artificial intelligence and semiconductor engineering,” he added.
The initiative aligns with the Penang2030 vision of building a smart, green and inclusive state, while adding an education and research dimension to long-standing Malaysia–Japan industrial cooperation.
Yeoh, in his speech, said the collaboration reflects a shared belief that the future of the region depends on global collaboration, knowledge exchange and adaptability in a rapidly changing world.
“Penang’s growth has long been driven by international engagement through trade, culture, tourism, investment and institutional partnerships.
“By combining the strengths of INTI International University & Colleges, Shinshu University and Toyohashi University of Technology, this partnership will open doors for students, especially in advancing research, encouraging collaboration and contributing to global progress,” he said.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Darwina Mohd Daud