University of Tsukuba Malaysia Inspires MRSM Bintulu Students with Launch of Malaysia Campus
Bintulu, Malaysia, November 13, 2024 — Professor Dr Maki Tsujimura, Dean of the School of Transdisciplinary Science and Design from the University of Tsukuba Malaysia delivered an engaging talk at Maktab Rendah Sains MARA (MRSM) Bintulu, or MARA Junior Science College (MJSC) Bintulu announcing the launch of the University of Tsukuba Malaysia (UTMy) — School of Transdisciplinary Science and Design Malaysian Campus, located at University Malaya, Kuala Lumpur. This new institution, founded with a mission to address pressing social and environmental issues, blends science and the arts in a curriculum aimed at nurturing adaptable, problem-solving leaders.
Principal of MRSM Bintulu Puan Zuraida binti Zaidi welcomed the delegates alongside teachers of the institution. Dr. Tsujimura emphasized UTMy’s unique educational model, which integrates Japanese and English instruction, offering students a bilingual, multicultural experience that prepares them for a globalized workforce. With a selective annual intake of 40 students, UTMy’s first cohort of 13 students is pioneering a curriculum recognized by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) and supported by various foundations.
The talk highlighted UTMy’s commitment to a transdisciplinary approach, which opens diverse academic pathways beyond single-discipline studies. Through problem-based learning, students are able to tackle real-world issues relevant to Malaysia, including work-life balance, cultural diversity, smart city development, and sustainable infrastructure. Dr. Tsujimura shared insights from Japan’s journey in solving environmental challenges since the 1960s, underscoring UTMy’s role in equipping Malaysian students with skills to address similar issues.
UTMy students also have opportunities to conduct part of their graduate research project at the University of Tsukuba’s main campus in Japan, through a curriculum similar to Tsukuba’s Bachelor of Arts and Science in Global Issues. This exchange strengthens international collaboration and provides students with hands-on experience in addressing global issues. Admission to UTMy involves a rigorous selection process that includes a group interview, with applications open online in early 2025.
In addition to its academic offerings, UTMy is closely connected with real-life industry, hosting renowned mentors and industry speakers to provide practical insights. Among these is former Malaysian Prime Minister Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad, who previously joined UTMy’s list of distinguished guest speakers. Dr. Tsujimura emphasized that this industry collaboration ensures UTMy students receive guidance on real-world applications and career development.
UTMy also offers postgraduate pathways, including joint postgraduate programs in sustainability and environmental science with Malaysia-Japan International Institute of Technology (MJIIT) at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM). These programs further strengthen UTMy’s commitment to sustainability and social responsibility.
In closing, Dr. Tsujimura expressed UTMy’s vision for its students to have “unlimited possibilities,” empowering them to make positive impacts in Malaysia and beyond. This innovative approach to education represents a promising addition to Malaysia’s academic landscape, inspiring students at MRSM Bintulu to pursue paths of meaningful change and future leadership.
