News

Prof. Dato' Dr. Wan Kamal Mujani, UKM Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research and Innovation Affairs (left) and Professor Dr. Sombat Thamrongthanyawong, President of WU (right)

Walailak University (WU) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), also known as the National University of Malaysia, to advance academics and research. The ceremony was organized yesterday (22 Oct. 2024) at Chorpradu Chamber of WU Hospital, with participants both WU executives and a delegation from UKM led by Prof. Dato' Dr. Wan Kamal Mujani, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research and Innovation Affairs.

The MOU, effective for five years, aims to promote joint research and the exchange of academic publications and information, the exchange of faculty and students, and the promotion of other academic activities. It was signed by Professor Dr. Sombat Thamrongthanyawong, President of WU, and Professor Dato’ Gs. Ts. Dr. Mohd Ekhwan Hj. Toriman, Vice-chancellor of UKM. 

Professor Dr. Sombat Thamrongthanyawong, President of WU, said that he was honored to welcome all UKM delegates to WU. He believes that the partnership will greatly benefit both institutions in terms of academics and research, and strengthen the internationalization efforts which have contributed to the university’s development.

“Today marks a significant milestone as we gather to formalize the partnership between Walailak University and Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia by signing the Memorandum of Understanding. To our esteemed partners, led by Prof. Dato' Dr. Wan Kamal Mujani, we are deeply grateful for your presence and for making this collaboration possible, which promises immense potential for both our institutions to promote academic and research collaboration,” he said.

“Together, our strengths will bolster innovation, impactful research, and global readiness for our students, as at Walailak, we recognize that internationalization has been the driving force of this university in its quest to expand its connections,” said President Sombat. 

Prof. Dato' Dr. Wan Kamal Mujani, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research and Innovation Affairs at UKM, speaking on behalf of the delegates, expressed confidence that the MOU will lead to fruitful and tangible collaborations in the future. 

He emphasized that the partnership would not only benefit both institutions but also contribute to the wider academic and economic communities, fostering advancements in education, research, and innovation.

During the event, a presentation and discussion were held regarding potential future collaborations by the WU School of Languages and General Education, focusing on enhancing students’ English language skills, general education, and 21st-century skills. Proposed collaborative activities included international student volunteer projects and participation in UKM's Global Classroom project. For the WU School of Education and Liberal Arts, potential collaborations included student exchange programs, academic competitions, cultural exchange initiatives, and cooperative education.

Established in 1992, WU has seen significant development over the past decade. Currently, the university is ranked sixth in Thailand and 1201-1500 globally according to Times Higher Education (THE). Earlier this year, it was awarded the Outstanding Award for Excellence in Internationally High-Caliber Research by Thailand’s Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation. As for UKM, it is currently ranked 401-500 in THE World University Rankings 2025 and the university has also earned five QS Stars for teaching, employability, internationalization, and facilities.


Collaboration discussion at Chorpradu Chamber, WU Hospital


Collaboration discussion at Chorpradu Chamber, WU Hospital


Welcoming event at Honor Hall, WU Hospital


Welcoming event at Honor Hall, WU Hospital