MIICI Visited UMKT, Strengthening International Collaboration

umkt.ac.id, Samarinda – Delegates from the Malaysian International Islamic Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MIICI) visited Universitas Muhammadiyah Kalimantan Timur (UMKT) today, Tuesday, April 14, 2026. The visit was highlighted by the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for strategic cooperation, held in the General Sudirman Building.

The ceremony was attended by UMKT’s Vice Rectors, the Director of the Office of Cooperation and International Affairs (OCIA), and members of the university leadership. The MIICI delegation included the President of MIICI, the Chairman of the Indonesian Muslim Entrepreneurs Community (KPMI) of East Kalimantan, representatives from the East Kalimantan Office for Industry, Trade, Cooperatives, and SMEs, and a representative from the Balikpapan Export Center.

Ghozali, Vice Rector for Research, Innovation, Downstreaming, and Community Service, welcomed the collaboration. He emphasized that partnering with agencies like MIICI would significantly broaden networking opportunities for both faculty and students, particularly in the areas of international research.

“We expect this cooperation to facilitate our lecturers and students in conducting joint research and community service activities in Malaysia,” Ghozali remarked during the session.

Muhamad Amin Fahmi, President of MIICI, underscored that this partnership transcends institutional benefits. He noted that it serves as a catalyst for strengthening trade integration between Indonesia and Malaysia.

“These efforts will be realized through the exchange of expertise and knowledge, as well as by mobilizing students who have a keen interest in domestic and international trade,” Fahmi explained.

The event featured an interactive discussion between the delegates of UMKT and MIICI. Rahmatullah Ayu Hasmiati, the Director of the OCIA, expressed her hope that this strategic alliance would open doors for students to secure international internships at Malaysian companies and serve as a launchpad for UMKT’s student entrepreneurs.

“We want to encourage our students to gain invaluable experience through international internships. Furthermore, we are optimistic that products developed by our students can reach the global market, with Malaysia as a primary gateway,” Hasmiati declared.

The event concluded with the formal signing of the MoU, followed by a networking session and a communal lunch. This visit from MIICI further exemplifies UMKT’s robust international network and its steadfast commitment to building global collaborations that provide a positive impact on both society and the world of education.

Author: M. Rafly Raihandy

Translator: M. Rafly Raihandy

Editor: Raisha Azzahro