Outcomes of the UCSI University Delegation's Visit to Astana International University

On June 5, 2026, Astana International University hosted an official visit from a high-level delegation representing UCSI University (Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia). The foreign delegation was led by Dato' Peter Ng, Founder and Executive Chairman of UCSI Group, and Dr. Raj Kumar, Vice President of UCSI. The primary objective of this milestone visit was to establish robust international cooperation and officially sign a Memorandum of Understanding between the two leading educational institutions.  

During the comprehensive program approved by AIU Rector A.B. Myrzagaliyeva, the guests familiarized themselves with the infrastructure of the Kazakhstani university, visited the university museum, and held a series of official meetings with the university management, vice-rectors, and deans of higher schools. The agenda focused on strategic institutional cooperation, global university rankings, and the launch of joint academic and research projects. One of the central points of discussion was the prospect of opening a fully-fledged branch campus of UCSI University in Kazakhstan.  

Following the productive discussions, the parties reached concrete agreements within the framework of implementing a "2 years + 1 year" model. A phased roadmap for the educational programs was approved, with the launch of the Foundation program established as the first crucial milestone. The institutions confirmed their readiness to accept the first cohort of the Foundation program within this current year, noting that the preparatory groups could arrive and commence their studies as early as next week.

The second phase will entail a full student intake for the degree programs, which is scheduled for 2027. This progressive academic integration will culminate in the official opening of the Malaysian university's branch campus hosted at Astana International University, which will take place directly after students complete the initial Foundation program.

Beyond the official business proceedings, a cultural program was organized for the Malaysian delegation, featuring a guided tour of the Presidential Center of the Republic of Kazakhstan. The itinerary also included an important diplomatic meeting at the Embassy of Malaysia to the Republic of Kazakhstan, underscoring the high-level significance and value of the newly established bilateral agreements for both nations.