【FILA】 Strengthening International Collaboration with the University of Malaya

Advancing Short-Term Study Abroad through the Buddy System

On May 7, 2025, the Faculty of International Liberal Arts (FILA) and the Center for Malaysian Studies co-hosted a faculty and staff development (FD/SD) seminar in collaboration with the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences (FASS) at the University of Malaya (UM). The seminar, titled “Developing and Enhancing Short-Term Study Abroad Programs Using the Buddy System: A Case from the University of Malaya,” highlighted the growing partnership between the two institutions.
Since the 2016 academic year, FILA has implemented a two-part “Problem Identification and Resolution-Based Training Program (International Fieldwork),” consisting of preparatory study during the fall semester of the second year and a two-week fieldwork session during the spring break.This program focuses on Malaysia’s multicultural society, where students engage directly with local social issues and deepen their learning through on-site experiences.
In 2023, this initiative entered a new phase through collaboration with UM-FASS and its student organization, the Global Network Club (GNC), which introduced the "i-Smart Buddies System." This system pairs Soka University students with a UM student “buddy,” who provides both academic and personal support throughout the program.
Students conducted field surveys in rapidly transforming urban districts such as Kampung Kerinchi and Kampung Baru, working collaboratively with their buddies and presenting their research findings to UM faculty in English. This immersive, cross-cultural experience has become a cornerstone in fostering students’ understanding of Malaysia’s multicultural society and enhancing their field research and communication skills.
At the seminar, Honorary Professor Hanafi Hussin (FASS) delivered a keynote address outlining the motivation, objectives, and strategic development of the Buddy System at UM. Mr. Ahmad Hilmi Mohamad Norr, Chief International Affairs Officer at FASS, presented on the structure and training processes of GNC, as well as the future vision for student-led programs. In addition, GNC former president Ms. Gousalyaa Sugumaran and a FILA student representative shared their personal experiences and insights, prompting active discussion among participants.
The UM delegation also paid a courtesy visit to President Suzuki and joined a reporting session with first-year FILA students, further deepening mutual understanding and institutional ties. This visit not only reaffirmed the strength of the collaborative relationship between the two universities but also showcased a model for inclusive, student-centered international education.
Moving forward, Soka University and the University of Malaya aim to further expand their partnership through continued joint programming, faculty exchange, and international learning opportunities.

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