Universitas Muslim Indonesia (UMI), established in 1954 and located in Makassar, South Sulawesi, is one of Indonesia's oldest and most prestigious private universities. Known for its commitment to academic excellence, research innovation, and community service, UMI operates under the guiding principles of Islamic values. In 2020, the University of Cyberjaya's Faculty of Pharmacy signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with UMI to foster collaborative efforts.
In line with advancing academic excellence, a research attachment programme for two lecturers from the University of Cyberjaya was conducted at UMI from July 12th to 17th, 2024. The objective of this programme was to enhance collaborative research efforts, provide professional development opportunities, and improve the research metrics for the University of Cyberjaya.
The research attachment was conducted by Prof. Dr. Shamima Abdul Rahman, Director of the Graduate Research School, and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mahani Mahadi, Head of the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy. The programme commenced on July 12th with the arrival of the lecturers, followed by a welcome dinner hosted by UMI, which set a warm and hospitable tone for the research attachment.
On July 13th, the International Student Research Symposium took place, where Prof. Dr. Shamima Abdul Rahman delivered a keynote speech titled “Halal Pharmaceuticals & Alternatives for Halal Critical Ingredients.” This session provided valuable insights and fostered a rich exchange of ideas among the participants.
Community services and research product exhibitions are integral components of academic institutions, fostering a deeper connection between the university and the community while
showcasing the innovative work done by researchers. On July 14th, UMI researchers showcased their products and provided testers to the community from other faculties in UMI.
The following day, July 15th, was dedicated to a Research Collaboration Meeting. During this meeting, UoC researchers presented their profiles, leading to fruitful discussions on potential collaborative grant applications. This session aimed to strengthen research ties and explore funding opportunities for joint projects. Before the meeting, guest lectures on three distinct topics were delivered by the visiting lecturers, including Mdm Hariana Harris from the Faculty of Pharmacy. These lectures offered UMI students and faculty fresh perspectives and in-depth knowledge in specific areas of expertise, enhancing the academic environment.
On July 16th, a Postgraduate Research Discussion was held, focusing on collaborative planning for postgraduate supervision. This discussion aimed to improve the quality of postgraduate education through shared supervision strategies and joint research initiatives. Laboratory tours were also conducted, during which the team visited several laboratories in the Faculty of Pharmacy at Universitas Muslim Indonesia.
The visit concluded on July 17th with the departure of the lecturers back to UoC, marking the end of a successful and enriching exchange programme that fostered academic collaboration and strengthened the ties between the two institutions. The planned research attachment at Universitas Muslim Indonesia is a strategic initiative that aligns with the University of Cyberjaya's goals for academic and research excellence.
This contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals:
