UPMS, Tokyo NODAI deepen ties through student research, cultural exchange

BINTULU (Aug 28): Universiti Putra Malaysia Sarawak (UPMS) and Tokyo University of Agriculture (Tokyo NODAI) are strengthening academic and cultural ties through the second edition of their Japan-Malaysia Student Research and Cultural Exchange programme.

Known as JM-Exchange 2026, the event brings together 22 students ― 10 from Tokyo NODAI and 12 from UPMS ― for a two-week programme focused on collaborative learning, research, environmental sustainability and cultural exchange.

The programme was officially launched by UPMS director Prof Dr Shahrul Razid Sarbini at Ruai Sri Meranti, UPMS, here on Wednesday.

According to UPMS, the 2026 edition, running from Aug 25 to Sept 7, builds on the inaugural programme held last year, which involved 18 students from both universities.

The 10 Tokyo NODAI students are accompanied by Prof Dr Mami Irie and Dr Maky Otsuka, while the 12 UPMS students serve as programme and learning partners.

The participants had also spent about two months interacting and preparing for the programme online before meeting physically in Bintulu.

In his speech, Shahrul welcomed the Japanese participants and stressed the significance of international student mobility in broadening learning experiences.

“We encourage participants to exchange knowledge, understand each other’s cultures and build relationships that will continue beyond the programme,” he said.

Led by programme director Dr Keeren Sundara Rajoo, JM-Exchange 2026 features joint lectures and research activities, field visits, community and industry engagement, as well as cultural activities.

Among the highlights is a visit to Niah, including an overnight stay at an Iban longhouse, giving the participants first-hand exposure to Sarawak’s biodiversity, culture and socio-economic environment.

“The programme positions Sarawak as a ‘living laboratory’, allowing students to explore biodiversity, community, development and sustainability issues through direct field experience rather than classroom learning alone.

“It also aims to strengthen participants’ cross-cultural communication, teamwork, leadership and adaptability in an international setting,” the university said.

In line with its sustainability focus, JM-Exchange 2026 is also being conducted with the aspiration of becoming a zero-waste mobility programme, with participants encouraged to reduce the use of disposable items and practise responsible resource management.

The university noted that the programme reflects the continuing commitment of UPMS and Tokyo NODAI to strengthening institutional ties through student mobility, experiential learning and joint research, while laying the groundwork for wider academic exchanges and international collaboration.

Also present were Faculty of Agricultural Science and Forestry dean Assoc Prof Dr Noorasmah Saupi, UPMS administration head Noor Hakim Ahmad and UPMS Centre for Strategy and Corporate Relations deputy director Siti Rajanah Abdul Aziz.

Cultural Exchange programme lead onsite Student Research Tokyo University of Agriculture UPMS