Malaysia’s prestigious national university, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), and the Holy Cross of Davao College (HCDC) have taken significant steps towards forming a fruitful and lasting partnership. On May 16, 2023, a delegation from UKM visited HCDC, marking the beginning of a collaboration aimed at extending educational and cultural ties between Malaysia and the Philippines.
Under the theme “EXCHANGE, EXPLORE, EXPERIENCE: Strengthening Connection Between Malaysia and the Philippines,” the ten UKM ambassadors captivated the audience at the HCDC Cross Theater. Through a cultural-sharing session, they offered valuable insights into UKM’s offerings, including their diverse cultures, values, dances, and traditions.
Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, known for its exceptional academic performance, stands as the premier national university in Malaysia. Reflecting on the visit, HCDC President Br. Noelvic H. Deloria, S.C., expressed his enthusiasm and gratitude towards the UKM delegates.
“It’s always good to have this internationalization project or internationalization program to start with our neighboring countries. So we are very grateful that you are here. Your visit now is really an affirmation of solidarity and [creating] alliances,” Br. Deloria said.
He emphasized the importance of taking the first steps in forming the good partnership between the University of Kebangsaan Malaysia and the Holy Cross of Davao College.
“This cross-cultural dialogue shall benefit both institutions, as well as other stakeholders. Who knows, in the very near future, we will also be there in Malaysia to learn more about, being immersed about Malaysian culture, and also for us the opportunity to share,” Deloria added.
Br. Deloria expressed hope that this partnership would foster a warm and harmonious relationship, contributing to the creation of a better global community.
Harfiz Rasul Mohamad, Head of the Delegation from Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, conveyed his appreciation for the warm welcome extended by HCDC.
“Thank you everyone for all your kind words on the University of Kebangsaan, and about what we have been sharing with you guys earlier. You are welcome to [study], especially to me as well, that you will like these programs to be conducted in UKM, whether physically or online, we will do it for you,” he said.
Mohamad mentioned that UKM will welcome ideas and requests from its partners.
Dr. Teresa P. Fabiania, HCDC Vice President for Academic Affairs, emphasized the importance of cultural understanding and mutual respect as the foundation for a better world.
“This will be the best time to start our partnership to collaborate on academic and cultural activities so our faculty and students will learn and grow individually and professionally,” she said.
Present also in the event was Consulate General of Malaysia in Davao City Deddy Faisal who also expressed his gratitude to the HCDC community and welcomed the Malaysian community in Davao City. Dr. Rene M. Babiera II, Coordinator of the University of Immaculate Conception (UIC) International Affairs and Linkages Office, and some students from UIC were present.
HCDC remains committed to fostering global opportunities and providing its students with a globally-competent education, expanding their social interconnectivity in the process. The partnership with UKM promises to offer enriching experiences and valuable educational exchanges for both institutions.