Lancaster University has reaffirmed its position as a leader in global education by hosting the first-ever international university event held in collaboration with the Malaysian Parliament.

The Lancaster University Malaysia Engagement Dinner 2025 - hosted at the Banquet Hall, Parliament of Malaysia - celebrated an international partnership of nearly 20 years and showcased the transformative impact of higher education in strengthening international partnerships, fostering innovation, and driving economic growth.

Established in 2006, the Lancaster-Sunway partnership was built on a foundation of excellent teaching and has evolved over the years to include joint research collaboration and engagement activities. The partnership has grown from an initial cohort of 21 graduates to over 7,800 students.

Lancaster University is the largest provider of UK transnational education in Malaysia, in partnership with Sunway University (Source: HESA) and students studying at Lancaster University’s global partnerships account for one-third of Lancaster’s student body.

The event brought together nearly two hundred guests, including senior officials from the Malaysian and UK governments, academia, alumni, and industry leaders spanning professional services, banking, engineering consultancy, food and beverage, charity, and technology.

Professor Andy Schofield, Vice-Chancellor of Lancaster University

Notable attendees included YB Tan Sri Dato’ Dr Johari Bin Abdul, the Speaker of the House of Representatives of Malaysia who is also a distinguished Lancaster University alumnus, and Tom Shepherd, Acting Deputy British High Commissioner to Malaysia.

“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,” said YB Tan Sri Dato’ (Dr.) Johari bin Abdul.

The event reinforced Lancaster University’s commitment to innovation, research, and knowledge exchange, highlighting its strategic vision to expand its presence in Malaysia and the ASEAN region. As a leading top 10 UK university with campuses and partnerships worldwide, and an ambition to rank among the world’s top 100 universities, Lancaster University embraces a proudly global outlook.

Through its long-standing partnership with Sunway University, Lancaster University has driven transnational education, multi-sector collaborations, and sustainable initiatives that fuel economic and social development. Since its establishment in 2006, the partnership has continued to grow stronger, providing students with a world-class education and international perspective.

Guests at the Lancaster University UK and Sunway University Malaysia celebrating an enduring partnership.

“With more than 7,800 students enrolled, Lancaster-Sunway serves as a hub for knowledge exchange, research, and global mobility. It has empowered thousands of graduates with future-proof skills and leadership qualities, equipping them to make a lasting impact in Malaysia, the UK, and beyond,” said Professor Andy Schofield, Vice-Chancellor of Lancaster University.

In a pre-recorded message David Wallace, Acting British High Commissioner to Malaysia, sent words of support highlighting Lancaster’s role in strengthening UK-Malaysia ties through education. He said: “Lancaster University exemplifies the power of international education partnerships, which enhance the strategic bilateral relationship between the UK and Malaysia.”

The evening also featured a panel discussion, where speakers discussed the importance of global partnerships in enhancing social mobility, leadership, and entrepreneurship among students. They emphasised how such collaborations equip graduates with future-proof skills and a broad perspective, positioning them for success in an increasingly interconnected world.