USU PUBLIC RELATIONS — Vice Rector for Research, Innovation, and Cooperation of Universitas Sumatera Utara (USU), Prof. Dr. Eng. Himsar Ambarita, officially opened the 2026 International Knowledge Exchange Program (KEP), organized by the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences (FMIPA) USU in collaboration with the Faculty of Science and Technology (FST) of Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM). The program was held in a hybrid format from September 1–3, 2026, with the main activities taking place at the FMIPA USU Multipurpose Hall and participants joining online via Zoom.

The program served as a platform for exchanging academic knowledge and experiences in physics, chemistry, biology, and mathematics. In addition to bringing together academics and researchers from both institutions, KEP 2026 was also designed to strengthen academic ties between USU and UKM and create opportunities for collaboration in research, publications, academic mobility, and student exchange.

Dean of FMIPA USU, Prof. Dr. Miswar Budi Mulya, also delivered remarks at the opening ceremony. Representing FST UKM, remarks were delivered by Deputy Dean for Industry and Community Engagement, FST UKM, Prof. Ts. ChM. Dr. Rizafizah Othaman.

During the morning session, the program featured a public lecture by Associate Professor Dr. Khairiah Haji Badri, followed by a series of lectures delivered by invited speakers. The afternoon session featured Dr. Nik Norhazrina Nik Mohd Kamil as the keynote speaker, followed by parallel lecture sessions in four fields: biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics.

Beyond serving as a platform for knowledge sharing, the program also resulted in concrete steps to strengthen cooperation between the two universities. Following the completion of the program, USU and UKM signed an Implementation Arrangement as a follow-up to their established cooperation.

Through KEP 2026, academics and researchers from USU and UKM had the opportunity to present their research findings, exchange ideas, and discuss potential future collaborations. The involvement of four academic disciplines also created opportunities for the development of interdisciplinary research and the expansion of academic networks between the two universities.

The program was initiated by Prof. Dr. Mohamad Deraman and Dr. Fatin Saiha Omar, who served as the KEP 2026 program leads. The initiative is expected to further expand academic collaboration between USU and UKM and promote sustainable cooperation in education, research, and the advancement of knowledge.