Empowering Global Education Leaders
Building Capacity for Excellence in International Education
28 – 29 November 2024
Avani Sepang Goldcoast Resort, Selangor, Malaysia
Join us for a transformative experience designed to enhance your skills and broaden your horizons in the field of international education. This event brings together thought leaders and professionals to share insights and strategies for success.


Building Capacity for Excellence in International Education
Join us at APAIE’s exclusive, invitation-only event, hosted by UTM, designed to unlock global opportunities and foster collaboration. Over two enriching days at the scenic Avani Sepang Goldcoast Resort, network with industry professionals, engage in insightful session, and connect with international participants. This unique gathering promises a blend of learning, networking, and fun, ensuring a comprehensive experience that strengthens global educational partnerships.
Complimentary Admission upon Invitation
Engage with Experts
Connect with professionals and leaders in the international education sector
Learn & Collaborate
Gain insights from global participants through interactive sessions and discussions
Immersive Experience
Enjoy two enriching days of interactive sessions, networking over meals, and engaging activities that blend learning with leisure.
Officiators

YBhg. Datuk Prof. Dr. Azlinda Azman
Director General of Higher Education
Department of Higher Education
Ministry of Higher Education Malaysia

Prof. Dr. Mohd Shafry Mohd Rahim
UTM Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics & International)
Universiti Teknologi Malaysia

Prof. Dr. Erik Lithander
APAIE Advisory Council Member
Deputy Vice-Chancellor of the University of Auckland
Event Agenda
Day 1: Thursday, 28 November
8:30 am - 9:00 am
Foyer Grand Ballroom 3
Arrival of Participants and Registration
Kick off the event with participants arriving and registering for what promises to be an engaging and impactful day.
9:00 am - 10:05 am
Grand Ballroom 3
Opening Ceremony
- Welcoming Remarks by YBrs.Prof. Dr. Mohd Shafry Bin Mohd Rahim, UTM Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics & International)
- Keynote Speech by Prof. Dr. Erik Lithander, APAIE Advisory Council & Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Strategic Engagement) University of Auckland
- Officiating Address by YBhg. Datuk Prof. Dr. Azlinda Azman, Director General of Higher Education, Department of Higher Education, Ministry of Higher Education Malaysia
10:05 am -10:40 am
Grand Ballroom 3
Morning Refreshments
Morning Tea/Coffee Break & Networking
10:40 am - 10:45 am
Grand Ballroom 3
Welcoming Delegates
Associate Prof. Dr. Mohd Ariffin Abu Hassan - APAIE AC| Director of UTM International
10:45 am - 11:30 am
Grand Ballroom 3
University internationalisation yesterday, today and tomorrow
Prof. Dr. Erik Lithander- APAIE AC| Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Strategic Engagement, University of Auckland
Explore the dynamic journey of university internationalisation, from its rich historical roots to its innovative present and visionary future, shaping the global landscape of education.
11:30 am - 12:30 pm
Grand Ballroom 3
Workshop 1 - How to Develop an Internationalisation Strategy
Martin Hookham-Simms – Director International, Auckland University
Gain practical insights and hands-on experience in developing an internationalization strategy through key components, real-world case studies, and an interactive session to kickstart your strategic outline.
12:30 pm - 2:00 pm
Bila Bila Restaurant
Networking Lunch
Enjoy a gourmet lunch while building valuable connections with fellow professionals in a relaxed setting.
2:00 pm - 4:05 pm
Grand Ballroom 3
Workshop 2 - Emerging Trends in Internationalisation
Overview of Transnational Education and Case Study from University of Wollongong
Prof. Dr. Hon Wei Min - Deputy Vice Chancellor-Academic, UOW Malaysia
News from Europe-TNE: A European perspective
Peter Mayr - Director of the International Office, University of Salzburg, Austria
Understanding data incorporating student perspectives
Guy Perring-Regional Director, Asia @ Etio
Supporting Transnational Education: An Australian Government Perspective
Fiona Morris-Counsellor (Education and Research, Australian High Commission, Malaysia)
4:05 pm - 4:30 pm
Foyer Grand Ballroom 3
Afternoon Tea Break
Unwind and network over a refreshing afternoon tea, set against the serene backdrop of the sea.
4:30 pm - 5:20 pm
Grand Ballroom 3
Workshop 3 - Transnational Education for Sustainable Internationalisation
Exploring the intersection of sustainability and internationalisation
Asst. Prof. Dr. Michelle Soo Oi Yoon - Deputy Dean of the Department of Biotechnology, UCSI University
CANIE and APAIE
Lucinda Malgas-APAIE Project Manager and Sustainability Officer
6:00 pm -7:00 pm
Free & Easy Networking Session
Engage in free and easy activities to foster collaboration and camaraderie among participants.
7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Sepoi-Sepoi Restaurant
Dinner Reception
Unwind and enjoy a delightful dinner by the beach, offering a relaxed setting to connect and engage with fellow participants.
Day 2: Friday, 29 November
8:30 am - 8.40 am
Grand Ballroom 3
Day 1 Recap
Recap the highlights of the first day.
8:40 am - 9:45 am
Grand Ballroom 3
Workshop 4 - Maximising Value from University Networks
Dr. Vanita Shastri-Former Dean of Global Education & Strategic Partnerships, Ashoka University
Discover strategies to build impactful relationships and leverage university networks, with real-world examples of successful collaborations that drive value and amplify institutional reach.
9:45 am - 10:15 am
Foyer Grand Ballroom 3
Morning Tea
Take a quick break to refresh before the engaging panel discussion.
10:15 am - 11:30 pm
Grand Ballroom 3
Panel Discussion - Integrating Internationalisation Strategies
Dr Erik Lithander; Dr. Vanita Shastri; Martin Hookham-Simms; Guy Perring; Peter Mayr; Assoc. Prof. Dr. Suresh Ramakrishnan
This expert panel will synthesize key themes from the workshops, offering insights into seamlessly integrating these strategies into practice to maximize global impact and institutional growth.
11:30 am - 12:00 pm
Grand Ballroom 3
Closing Remarks
Prof. Dr Erik Lithander & Assoc. Prof. Mohd Ariffin Abu Hassan
12:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Bila Bila Restaurant
Lunch
2:00 pm - 3:30 pm
Grand Ballroom 3
Preparing your International Action Plan and Networking Opportunity
Collaborate with leaders on specific challenges related to your institution’s internationalization goals while gaining valuable insights to refine your action plan. This session also offers an excellent networking opportunity to connect with peers and experts in the field.
3:30pm - 4:00 pm
Foyer Grand Ballroom 3
Afternoon Tea & End of Program
Meet the Leadership Team

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mohd Ariffin Abu Hassan
Director UTM International
Universiti Teknologi Malaysia

Mr. Guy Perring
Regional Director – Performance Benchmarking (Asia)
Etio Global

Prof. Dr Vanita Shastri
Former Dean of Global Education & Strategic Partnerships
Ashoka University, India

Ms. Fiona Morris
Counsellor (Education and Research)
Australian High Commission, Malaysia

Mr. Martin Hookham-Simms
Director International
The University of Auckland, New Zealand

Mr. Peter Mayr

Asst. Prof. Dr. Michelle Soo Oi Yoon

Prof. Dr. Hon Wei Min
UOW Malaysia

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Suresh Ramakrishnan
(Global Strategy & Engagement)
Join Us at UTM x APAIE Leadership Program 2024
Secure your spot at the Building Capacity for Excellence in International Education event.
Register now to benefit as invited participants until November 10th.
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to enhance your professional skills and network with leaders in the field.
About the Speakers

Professor Dr. Erik Lithander, Deputy Vice-Chancellor of the University of Auckland and APAIE Advisory Council Member, leads the university’s Strategic Engagement portfolio, overseeing internationalisation, alumni relations, marketing, government relations, student recruitment, and sustainability. With prior leadership roles at the University of Bristol and Australian National University, he brings a wealth of experience to his position. Holding a BSc from the London School of Economics and an MPhil and PhD from the University of Cambridge, alongside executive education from the Wharton School and the LH Martin Institute, Professor Lithander has been pivotal in advancing global partnerships, enhancing the university’s international reputation. His vision has positioned Auckland as a leader in research and education, while his commitment to sustainability drives efforts to align academic excellence with long-term societal and environmental impact. A passionate advocate for global collaboration, he also chairs the Advisory Board of the New Zealand Centre at the Indian Institute of Technology in Delhi, furthering academic and cultural ties. His leadership continues to shape the university’s forward-thinking approach to addressing global challenges in higher education. Under his direction, the University of Auckland has strengthened its influence across Asia-Pacific, solidifying its role as a hub for international student engagement and academic innovation. His dedication to fostering a globally-minded academic community ensures that the university remains at the forefront of transformative education.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mohd Ariffin bin Abu Hassan is an Associate Professor at the Department of Chemical Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM). He obtained his Ph.D. in Environmental Engineering from UMIST, the United Kingdom, in 2004. Presently, he serves as the Director of UTM International, where he plays a crucial role in advancing UTM’s global presence. Through this appointment, he has been selected for other significant posts. Dr. Mohd Ariffin is the first Erasmus+ National Focal Point (ENFP) for Malaysia. He is also the Executive Director and Chair of the Steering Committee of the Asia Technological University Network (ATU-Net), Operational Board Member for the World Technology Universities Network (WTUN), and an Advisory Council Member for the Asia-Pacific Association for International Education (APAIE). His leadership has been instrumental in positioning UTM as a key player in international education and fostering strategic global partnerships. Additionally, his efforts have strengthened UTM’s role in global academic networks, enhancing its reputation in both research and international collaboration.


Professor Dr Vanita Shastri is a distinguished educationist and leader, known for her role as the founding Dean of Global Education & Strategic Partnerships at Ashoka University, where she led international partnerships, student exchanges, and global mobility initiatives. She developed the highly successful Visiting Students’ Programme and launched Ashoka’s Young Scholars Program, introducing high school students to liberal arts education. As the Founding Dean of Undergraduate Programs, she played a pivotal role in shaping Ashoka’s academic excellence, incorporating global best practices into the curriculum. A Cornell Ph.D. and former policy consultant at Harvard, she has taught at leading U.S. institutions, authored influential policy papers, and founded two non-profits, reflecting her dedication to education, social impact, and global collaboration. Shastri’s contributions extend beyond academia, as she has been instrumental in developing innovative training programs for students pursuing advanced degrees. Her passion for nurturing future leaders is evident through her mentorship of students and alumni at Ashoka, guiding them in their postgraduate pursuits.
Fiona Morris is the Counsellor (Education and Research) at the Australian High Commission in Malaysia, representing Australia’s Department of Education. In this pivotal role, she oversees Australia’s education, training, and research partnerships with both Malaysia and Singapore, strengthening ties that advance academic and scientific collaboration across borders. With a dynamic career spanning government and education sectors, Fiona has been at the forefront of shaping higher education, research, and science policy. Her global experience includes serving as Counsellor (Education and Research) at the Australian Embassy in Mexico City and Consul (Education and Science) at the Australian Consulate-General in Los Angeles, where she was instrumental in fostering international cooperation. From 2009 to 2017, she played a key leadership role as General Manager of the Faculty of Pharmacy at the University of Sydney, one of Australia’s leading research-intensive universities. Fiona’s rich background and global perspective make her a driving force in promoting educational excellence and international research collaboration.


Martin Hookham-Simms leads the International Office at the University of Auckland, overseeing international student recruitment, global partnerships, and mobility programs. Previously, at the University of Sussex, he expanded the international team and opened offices in key markets like China, India, and Malaysia, driving significant growth in global engagement. He also launched initiatives like One World Week and collaborated with The Guardian on the pioneering Global Student feature. Martin has held leadership roles at the University of Roehampton and is known for his award-winning efforts, including the Tencent Award for Outstanding Support for Chinese Students. His forward-thinking strategies have earned multiple accolades, reflecting his commitment to enhancing the international student experience. With an MBA in Higher Education Management from UCL, Martin’s expertise has made him a key figure in shaping global education trends. Beyond his roles, he is passionate about fostering intercultural understanding and building lasting global connections.
Guy Perring is the Regional Director for Asia at Etio, a leading consultancy and benchmarking firm that provides comparative insights to the education sector, with a focus on internationalisation, enhancing the student experience, and helping institutions ensure their students succeed in both employment and citizenship. With over 25 years of experience in education, Guy has worn many hats—ranging from teacher and administrator to market researcher and consultant. His career includes 12 years at the British Council, where he led a Southeast Asian Regional Transnational Education Project, fostering sustainable partnerships between UK and local institutions. A sought-after speaker, Guy has presented at prominent international conferences such as APAIE, Going Global, QS-APPLE, and the Commonwealth of Education Ministers. An alumnus of Manchester and Durham Universities, he brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to his role in shaping the future of international education.


Peter Mayr is the Director of the International Office at the University of Salzburg, Austria, where he spearheads the university’s internationalization strategy, manages global partnerships, and directs student and staff mobility programs alongside a dedicated team. Representing Salzburg on the Eurasia Pacific UniNet, where the university holds the presidency, he strengthens cross-regional academic ties through networks such as Africa-UniNet and ASEAN UniNet. Additionally, he contributes to CIVIS European University’s working groups on global engagement and mobility. Peter also advises Austria’s national higher education body, OeAD, as part of the national monitoring group for Erasmus+ implementation, and serves as an expert on the Advisory Board of the FRONTIERS project funded by the European Research Council. His prior experience includes advisory roles with the Austrian Council for Research and Technology Development and a policy officer position with the European Commission’s DG Research and Innovation in Brussels, establishing him as a prominent voice in higher education and research policy.
Assistant Professor Dr. Michelle Soo Oi Yoon, Deputy Dean and Senior Lecturer at UCSI University’s Faculty of Applied Sciences, has been an inspiring educator in aquatic sciences since 2017, bringing a wealth of expertise and passion to her students. Specializing in aquatic taxonomy, Dr. Michelle is also engaged in pioneering research on marine oil spill remediation, addressing critical environmental issues that impact marine ecosystems globally. She champions hands-on, field-based learning, advocating that real-world experiences are essential for a comprehensive understanding of aquatic science and fostering her students’ skills and awareness in this field. Her efforts to internationalize her faculty have led to valuable academic partnerships and collaborative programs, including research attachments for international students and adjunct lecturing opportunities with partner institutions worldwide. Recently, Dr. Michelle organized a transformative field excursion for students from an international university, emphasizing collaborative learning and practical research. Through her dedication to immersive international collaboration, Dr. Michelle inspires her students to tackle pressing environmental challenges and equips them to make impactful contributions to aquatic and environmental sciences.


Professor Hon Wei Min is the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (DVC)-Academic for UOW Malaysia, a position she has held since 2013. As the DVC, Prof. Hon oversees the overall leadership, strategic development, management, operation, and financial planning of the academic and research matters of all the institutions of UOW Malaysia. She is also leading the transnational education initiatives of UOW Malaysia with UOW Australia and other UOW global networks. Prior to joining UOW Malaysia KDU UC, Prof. Hon helmed senior management and academic leadership positions at a leading private university in Malaysia. Before joining the education industry, Prof. Hon was Vice President of a fast-growing regional biotechnology company in Singapore, where she spearheaded the Life Science business. Prof. Hon began her career as a research scientist at a young age, immediately after obtaining her PhD from the National University of Singapore in 1997 and has accumulated many years of research experience. She has also published many peer-reviewed journals on biotechnology and molecular biology.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Suresh Ramakrishnan is the Associate Director for Global Strategy & Engagement at UTM International and an Associate Professor in the Faculty of Management at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM). In his role, he leads initiatives to strengthen UTM’s position in the global academic landscape, overseeing strategic collaborations with universities worldwide. He has played a significant role in establishing UTM as a recognized partner in international education, promoting cross-border knowledge sharing and enhancing UTM’s presence in global networks. In addition to his administrative work, Dr. Suresh’s research spans corporate finance, quantitative analysis, and financial risk management. He has contributed to over 100 peer-reviewed publications in high-impact journals, addressing topics such as capital structure, corporate social responsibility, and volatility modeling. His research is widely cited and has influenced practices in finance and risk analysis, underscoring his expertise in these domains.

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Address
UTM International, Menara Razak,
Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Jalan Sultan Yahya Petra,
54100 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Join Us at the Event
Avani Sepang Goldcoast Resort
67 Jalan Pantai Bagan Lalang, Bagan Lalang, Sungai Pelek, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia 43950
GPS: 2.6007266, 101.6873318