Medan Area University (UMA) together with the Consulate General of Malaysia in Medan held an academic discussion which took place at the UMA Rectorate Hall on Tuesday, March 25, 2025. This activity raised the theme “Malaysia’s Chairmanship of ASEAN 2025: Rethinking ASEAN.”

The event opened with remarks from the Chancellor of UMA, Prof. Dr. Dadan Ramdan, M.Eng., M.Sc., who expressed his pride in the presence of representatives from Malaysia to discuss various upcoming ASEAN programs.

“I am very pleased to have our guests from Malaysia here to discuss various ASEAN activities, particularly those taking place in Malaysia. I hope the lecturers and students can participate and gain a deeper understanding of cooperation between ASEAN countries,” said Prof. Dadan.

He also emphasized that UMA has established partnerships with educational institutions in Malaysia, which are considered very beneficial for academic development, especially for UMA students.

“As an academic institution, we are committed to continuing to support and participate in various programs, especially those related to ASEAN activities. We want education in the Medan Area to make a real contribution and to see its benefits felt at the regional level,” he added.

Meanwhile, Malaysian Consul General Shahril Nizam Abdul Malek expressed his views on Malaysia’s appointment as ASEAN Chair for 2025. He explained that the theme of rethinking ASEAN aims to encourage increased public awareness of ASEAN’s existence and role.

“I use the term ‘rethinking ASEAN’ because I see that many people still don’t truly understand what ASEAN is. This discussion is expected to broaden public awareness and raise collective awareness of the community’s contribution to ASEAN and vice versa,” he explained.

In closing, both parties exchanged souvenirs as a symbol of appreciation and strengthening the relationship between UMA and the Consulate General of Malaysia.