- EMGS and ANA signed an MoU to enhance student mobility and Edutourism between Malaysia and Japan.
- The partnership supports seamless travel for international students, with ANA offering student-friendly services and flights.
- Initiatives like the Graduate Pass and increased Japanese student enrolment highlight growing educational ties.
In a strategic move to enhance educational mobility and promote tourism, Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS) and Japan’s largest airline group, All Nippon Airways (ANA), officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to foster stronger cooperation between Malaysia and Japan. The agreement primarily focuses on simplifying and enriching the travel experience for international students studying in Malaysia.
The MoU signing ceremony took place at the DoubleTree by Hilton Putrajaya Lakeside, symbolizing a new chapter in cross-border academic engagement. Through this partnership, both EMGS and ANA aim to support Malaysia’s growing position as a premier global education hub, while enabling smoother travel and cultural exchange for students from around the world.
Novie Tajuddin, CEO of EMGS, underscored the rising interest among Japanese students in Malaysian higher education. “We are witnessing a 24% increase in mobility programme participation from Japan the highest to date”, he said. “This collaboration will pave the way for enhanced Edutourism and greater international engagement, making Malaysia more accessible and attractive for global learners”.
Echoing this sentiment, ANA’s General Manager, Mr. Akira Tamura, emphasized the broader vision behind the agreement. “This MoU is more than just a partnership on air travel it’s about bridging people, knowledge, and cultures. We are proud to support the Ministry of Higher Education’s vision and to play a role in shaping the next generation of global citizens”.
The partnership builds upon previous successful engagements, including the Higher Education Mobility Carnival held during Malaysia Fair in Tokyo in 2024. It also complements Malaysia’s recent education initiatives like the Graduate Pass, a post-study visa enabling international graduates to stay in the country for up to one year. Notably, the first recipient of this pass was a Japanese graduate from Monash University Malaysia.
Also Read: Kyushu University Joins RENKEI Workshop at Durham University, Boosting Japan-UK Collaboration
ANA, renowned for its premium services and extensive domestic network across Japan, currently operates twice-daily flights from Kuala Lumpur to Tokyo Haneda and Narita airports, utilizing Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft. With offerings such as Halal meal options and student-focused benefits, ANA is well-positioned to cater to the needs of international students.
Both EMGS and ANA expressed optimism that this collaboration will further strengthen Malaysia-Japan relations, boost student mobility, and solidify Malaysia’s role in global education and Edutourism.
