Cross-country collaboration is an important step in expanding opportunities for learning, research, and knowledge exchange in higher education. This spirit was reflected in the academic discussion between the Faculty of Forestry, Universitas Sumatera Utara (USU), and the Faculty of Earth Science, Universiti Malaysia Kelantan (UMK), which was held online via Zoom on Friday (October 2, 2026).

The meeting served as a momentum for both institutions to become better acquainted while opening opportunities for academic cooperation that can be developed in the future, particularly in the fields of forestry, earth sciences, environment, and sustainable natural resource management.

The discussion began with remarks and introductions from both institutions. The Faculty of Forestry USU was represented by its leaders and academics, namely Dean of the Faculty of Forestry USU Prof. Arida Susilowati, Dr. Anita Zaitunah (Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Cooperation, and Internationalization), and Dr. Tito Sucipto (Vice Dean for Education, Student Affairs, and Alumni Affairs). Also joining the meeting were Dr. Evalina Herawati (Head of the Undergraduate Program in Forestry), Dr. Deni Elfiati (Secretary of the Undergraduate Program in Forestry), Prof. Siti Latifah (Head of the Master's Program in Forestry), Dr. Ridahati Rambey (Manager of Research, Community Service, Cooperation, and Internationalization), and Dr. Nelly Anna (Manager of Education, Student Affairs, and Alumni Affairs).

During the introduction session, the Faculty of Forestry USU presented its various strengths, ranging from the fields of expertise developed, educational and research facilities, to human resources with competencies in various areas. Various achievements that had been attained were also introduced as part of an overview of the development of the Faculty of Forestry USU in implementing education, research, and community service.

Not only did UMK listen to the presentation from USU, but the meeting also provided an opportunity for UMK to introduce its academic capacity. From FSB UMK, the meeting was attended by the Dean of the Faculty of Earth Science, Universiti Malaysia Kelantan (UMK), Assoc. Prof. Dr. Zulhazman Bin Hamzah, TS. Dr. Shaparas Binti Daliman, as Deputy Dean for Academic Affairs, accompanied by Dr. Wong Hie Ling (Head of Programme Environmental Sustainability) and Dr. Irene Christianus (Head of Programme Natural Resources).

The discussion then developed into a conversation about various opportunities that could bring together the academic strengths of both institutions. Collaboration was viewed not only as a form of inter-institutional relationship but also as an opportunity to provide broader academic experiences for students and lecturers.

Several forms of cooperation discussed included a dual degree program, student exchange programme, joint research projects, joint supervision of postgraduate students, academic staff exchange, joint conferences and workshops, shared use of facilities and laboratories, as well as publication and knowledge sharing.

These plans open opportunities for students to gain learning experiences in an international academic environment, while for lecturers and researchers, the cooperation can serve as a space to expand research networks, exchange perspectives, and develop joint research relevant to environmental and natural resource issues.

For the Faculty of Forestry USU, this exploration is also part of efforts to strengthen the internationalization of higher education. Academic relationships established with institutions from neighboring countries such as Malaysia are expected to develop into sustainable cooperation that provides benefits to both parties.

Beyond academic exchange, this collaboration offers an opportunity to bring together knowledge and experience in addressing increasingly complex environmental challenges. Forests, natural resources, climate change, and sustainability do not recognize national boundaries and therefore require cooperation, knowledge, and commitment from various parties.

Through strengthened academic collaboration, the Faculty of Forestry USU and FSB UMK are expected to jointly generate ideas, research, and innovations that benefit education while contributing to environmental and community sustainability.

This step is in line with the spirit of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4: Quality Education through expanding opportunities for learning and international academic exchange; SDG 13: Climate Action through strengthening research and knowledge on environmental sustainability; SDG 15: Life on Land through the development of knowledge and collaboration in sustainable forest and natural resource management; and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals through strengthening cross-institutional and cross-country partnerships in education, research, knowledge exchange, and innovation development.