Kuala Lumpur:Malaysia and Kazakhstan have identified six areas for collaboration between their universities, aiming to enhance bilateral cooperation in higher education, according to Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr. Zambry Abd Kadir.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the identified areas include artificial intelligence, nuclear science, agriculture, and critical minerals. Universities from both countries are expected to find suitable partners based on their strengths and expertise. This collaboration was discussed at the Malaysia-Central Asia Higher Education Forum 2026 (MAHEF2026) at Maqsut Narikbayev University.
A significant outcome of this forum was the agreement to hold annual higher education meetings between the two countries, with the first taking place in Kazakhstan and Malaysia set to host the next in 2027. Both nations also agreed to promote student and research mobility, academic exchanges, and student exchange programs to strengthen ties between their institutions.
Zambry emphasized the importance of expanding cooperation beyond just bringing Kazakh students to Malaysia. He encouraged Malaysian universities to offer educational opportunities in Kazakhstan through transnational education and dual-degree programs. This approach highlights the role of 'education diplomacy' in strengthening bilateral ties and fostering long-term connections.
Malaysia plans to share its experience in developing flexible higher education models, such as Work-Based Learning, stackable programs, and multidisciplinary approaches.
Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS) CEO Novie Tajuddin stated that transnational education would be a focus area following the meeting, involving collaboration in sectors like agriculture, energy, and AI. He mentioned that this aligns with Malaysia's Higher Education Blueprint, with internationalization as a key pillar to be achieved by 2035.
EMGS is committed to facilitating these initiatives and exploring co-funding options with the Kazakhstan government to increase the number of Kazakh students studying in Malaysia. An MoU was signed between EMGS and the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of Kazakhstan to strengthen cooperation and attract more international students to Malaysia.
This engagement was part of the MAHEF2026, organized by EMGS, to bring together higher education stakeholders from Malaysia and Central Asia. The aim is to strengthen cooperation in areas such as student mobility, transnational education, TVET, and digital skills. Zambry's official visit to Kazakhstan will continue until Sunday.