Malaysia – University Sains Malaysia (USM) and Semarang State University (UNNES) strengthened their strategic partnership through the “International Program for Introducing the 2025 Sustainability Agenda.” This intensive five-day program, held from November 10 to 14, 2025, brought together 10 UNNES students in a series of academic and field activities to deepen their understanding of sustainable development and affirm USM’s role as a pioneer in the sustainability agenda in the region.
Participants engaged not only in lectures and academic discussions but also directly observed best practices in the community. An opening lecture from the Center for Islamic Development Management Studies, led by Dr. Wan Norhaniza, explored the concept of the green economy and responsible resource utilization. Another session, led by Dr. Normaliza from the Industry and Community Networks Section, focused on water and waste management, aligning with SDG 6.
The direct application of the theory was demonstrated through field visits to the Kelulut Honey Project and the Volvariella Fungus Cultivation Project. Here, students reviewed sustainable beekeeping practices, local honey production, and innovative agricultural techniques that offer solutions for food security and community economic empowerment.
Lydia Felisa, a participant from UNNES, appreciated the program, which gave her a new perspective on Malaysia’s approach to sustainability. “USM’s efforts to engage local communities demonstrate a concrete and sustainable model for implementing the SDGs,” she said.
Shada Muyassar echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that the combination of lectures, discussions, and field activities significantly strengthened theoretical understanding. “Interactions with the community and project coordinators provided a clear picture of the real challenges in implementing sustainable initiatives,” she added.
From the organizer’s perspective, Daniel Anak Dennis from USM saw the program’s great potential for strengthening academic networks and exchanging ideas. Meanwhile, Taufik Jefri highlighted the personal development benefits for local students, including improved leadership skills, communication skills, and enhanced cross-cultural understanding.
The program between USM and UNNES is not just a typical student exchange, but a microcosm of SDG 17 implementation in practice. This partnership operationally fulfills several specific targets under SDG 17, enhancing the multi-stakeholder Global Partnership for Sustainable Development, and fostering and promoting effective public partnerships. The collaborative program between USM and UNNES is a concrete manifestation of SDG 17, moving beyond rhetoric. At the heart of this partnership is a multi-stakeholder ecosystem that synergistically involves academics, students, industry players, and local communities. The transfer of concrete knowledge and green technologies, such as sustainable agricultural practices and resource management, strengthens its foundation. All of these mechanisms serve as catalysts that accelerate the achievement of other goals, such as quality education and sustainable cities. Beyond mere academic exchange, this initiative invests in building the capacity of young people as future leaders. The resulting network of cross-border understanding creates crucial social capital for solving global challenges. Ultimately, this strategic partnership demonstrates that achieving sustainable development goals requires inclusive cooperation and collective action. The collaboration between USM and UNNES through this program not only broadens students’ horizons but also builds a network of young people who are aware and actively respond to global sustainability challenges, demonstrating that higher education is a key driving force in achieving the SDGs.
