Lancaster University celebrates partnership with Sunway University in Malaysia

Lancaster University has strengthened its position as a global education leader by co-hosting the first international university event with the Malaysian Parliament.

The Lancaster University Malaysia Engagement Dinner 2025 recently took place at the Banquet Hall, Parliament of Malaysia to celebrate the partnership between Lancaster and Sunway University and highlight their success in improving international relationships, encouraging innovation, and increasing economic growth.

The event demonstrated Lancaster University’s dedication to innovation, research, and knowledge exchange as well as its aim to expand in Malaysia and ASEAN.

Sunway University, Malaysia

The event included nearly 200 guests from Malaysian and UK government senior officials, to members of alumni and academia. Leaders in industries such as professional services, banking, engineering consultancy, food and beverage, charity, and technology were also present. Of these, particularly noteworthy guests were Vice-Chancellor Andy Schofield, distinguished Lancaster alumnus and Speaker of the Malaysian House of Representatives YB Tan Sri Dato’ Dr. Johari Bin Abdul and Acting Deputy British High Commissioner to Malaysia Tom Shepherd.

Additionally, Acting British High Commissioner to Malaysia David Wallace, sent a virtual message, saying: “Lancaster University exemplifies the power of international education partnerships, which enhance the strategic bilateral relationship between the UK and Malaysia.”

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Since 2006, this partnership has grown over nearly two decades from 21 graduates to over 7,800 students. During this, Lancaster University has led initiatives related to transnational education, sustainable initiatives, and joint research collaboration and engagement activities. YB Tan Sri Dato’ (Dr.) Johari bin Abdul spoke on how the partnership impacted him personally, saying: “The transformative Lancaster experience has inspired me to continually strive for excellence and serve the country. Now, as part of this nation’s leadership, I hope this event fosters broader conversations among diverse groups through partnerships and ultimately supports a more prosperous Malaysia.”

The dinner also featured a panel discussion on how global partnerships improve students’ social mobility, leadership, and entrepreneurship skills. It also explored how Lancaster and Sunway have provided graduates with global work skills for the future. Guests from Lancaster University also organised a small exhibition displaying the history of the Lancaster-Sunway partnership.

This summer, Lancaster University will be sending students on two summer programmes with Sunway University. As well as the hugely popular annual Malaysia Experience, this also includes a new Planetary Health and Sustainability in the Tropics programme.

Featured image via Lancaster University