PENANG – Han Chiang University College of Communication (HCUC) has marked yet another significant milestone by bridging transnational boundaries through the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) of the Philippines on 5 November, laying the foundation towards academic and cultural enrichment.

The MOU was signed virtually on Zoom by HCUC’s Vice-Chancellor, Associate Professor Dr Beh Kok Hooi and MMSU’s Vice President of Planning & Strategic Foresight, Dr Virgilio Julius P. Manzano Jr.

With the successful signing of the memorandum, students, staff, and faculty members of both institutions will have access to an array of programmes such as joint conferences, research activities, exchange programmes and development and offering of transnational education and short-term courses, all aimed at broadening horizons and nurturing transnational understanding.

In his speech, Associate Professor Dr Beh expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “Through this partnership we aim to collaborate in joint conferences and research, exchange academic materials and publications, and promote faculty, staff and student exchanges.

“As we commit to this partnership, I am confident that this partnership will yield meaningful experiences, whether through academic achievements, cultural exchanges or lifelong friendships.”

Assoc Prof Dr Beh (from right) and Vice President Dr Julius Manzano (from left) signing the MOU between HCUC and MMSU.

Meanwhile, MMSU Vice President of Planning & Strategic Foresight, Dr Virgilio Julius P. Manzano Jr, also shared similar sentiments to the partnership with HCUC highlighting the importance of communications as a driving force for other fields of study.

“Communication has surpassed traditional beliefs, that it is only a discipline that is linked to mass media – but over the years, it has transcended and extended into a pan discipline, making it a portal and gateway to other fields.

“With this endeavour, through the Memorandum of Understanding, we are harnessing communication’s potential in the field of education, research, community development and intercultural relations,” Dr Julius said.

Group photo of those in attendance during the MOU signing.