Kedah, Malaysia, July 28, 2026 — The Applied Bachelor's Degree Program Public Sector Accounting at the Faculty of Vocational Education, Universitas Sumatera Utara (USU), participated as part of a delegation in “The Global Nexus: USU × UUM” an international collaboration forum that brought together academics from USU and Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM) to strengthen academic networks, research, and innovation. On the second day of the event, the USU delegation attended a number of strategic sessions focused on developing academic cooperation and the internationalization of higher education.
The delegation from the Applied Bachelor's Degree Program Public Sector Accounting, represented by Dr. Sambas Ade Kesuma, S.E., M.Si., Ak., CA., and Ms. Risanty, S.E., M.Si., Ak., CA., paid a courtesy visit to Prof. Dr. Ram Al Jaffri Saad, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research & Innovation), Universiti Utara Malaysia. The meeting took place in a warm and collaborative atmosphere, reflecting both institutions’ commitment to expanding academic partnerships at the international level.
During the discussion, both parties explored various opportunities for cooperation that can be developed on a sustainable basis. Topics of focus included the development of joint research, increasing scientific publications in internationally reputable journals, faculty and student exchange programs, and strengthening international research networks—all of which are expected to foster innovation and cross-border collaboration. The meeting also served as a forum for exchanging ideas on research development strategies relevant to global challenges and on enhancing the quality of higher education’s three pillars through international partnerships.
As a symbol of friendship and a commitment to continue strengthening institutional ties, the delegation from the Universitas Sumatera Utara presented a commemorative gift to Universiti Utara Malaysia. This moment marked the close cooperative relationship, which is expected to continue to grow through various academic and research programs in the future.
On the same day, the USU delegation also had the opportunity to visit the Mahathir Mohamad Institute of Thought. The purpose of this visit was to broaden their understanding of leadership philosophy, public policy, and Malaysia’s transformation in the fields of education and national development. Through this visit, the delegation gained insight into the importance of visionary leadership, a culture of innovation, and strategic policies as the foundation for building universities that are adaptable and capable of addressing global challenges.
The participation of the Applied Bachelor's Degree Program Public Sector Accounting in the “The Global Nexus: USU × UUM” series is expected to serve as a first step toward expanding international academic networks while opening up opportunities for more concrete collaboration in the fields of education, research, innovation, and community service. Dr. Sambas Ade Kesuma and Ms. Risanty hope that the synergy between USU and UUM will continue to grow through the implementation of various joint programs that provide sustainable benefits for both institutions and contribute to improving the quality of higher education at the international level.