Delegation from the Mara University of Technology visited UNSA | “Multidimensional study of relations between Bosnia and Malaysia” Book Presentation

University of Sarajevo Rector, Prof. Dr. Rifat Škrijelj, on 15 September 2023, together with his colleagues and collaborators, hosted a delegation from the University of Technology Mara (UiTM) headed by Vice-Rector Ybhg. Prof. Datuk Dr. Hajah Roziah Janor. As part of the visit, there was also a promotion of the book “Multidimensional Study of Relations between Bosnia and Malaysia,” which was created as a result of academic cooperation between our two universities.

In addition to highlighting the importance of internationalization and international relations, the meeting discussed the intensification of cooperation in the field of education, training, research, exchange of students and academic staff.

Prof. Škrijelj, University of Sarajevo Rector reminded that the Memorandum of Understanding between the Mara University of Technology from Malaysia and the University of Sarajevo was signed in 2019, and emphasized that it will be renewed soon.

“We can call today the day of friendship between the University of Technology in Mara and the University of Sarajevo,” said Rector Škrijelj, thanking all the authors for their contribution in the process of working on the book.

The vice-chancellor of the Mara University of Technology (UiTM) Ybhg. Prof. Datuk Dr. Hajah Roziah Janor pointed out that the publication “Multidimensional Study of Relations between Bosnia and Malaysia” represents the cooperation, internationalization and partnership of two countries from two different continents, and therefore clearly serves as a symbol of goodwill between the two countries and the university.

The presented book “Multidimensional Study of Relations between Bosnia and Malaysia” deals with six interrelated topics, written by international authors and recognized scholars from both countries. The authors skilfully assessed the contemporary issues between Malaysia and Bosnia and Herzegovina, namely their diplomatic, economic, cultural and educational relations, including issues of wider regional cooperation between Southeast Europe and South and Southeast Asia. The book shows how Malaysian-Bosnian relations developed over time to become what they are today.

When speaking about the book, one of authors, Prof. Dr. Sarina Bakić, UNSA Faculty of Political Sciences pointed out that it is the result of a universal idea of cooperation between states, universities and people. This joint work, she stated, consists of an overall diverse theoretical and empirical background related to the importance of recognizing and understanding the deep-rooted ties between Malaysia and Bosnia and Herzegovina for many years.

“Through this cooperation, both countries represent their unique cultural and social values, better mutual understanding, elimination of various prejudices, respect for the authenticity and equality of cultures, strengthening connection, dialogue and solidarity, nurturing our efforts for peace in today's turbulent world,” said Professor Bakić.

Prof. Dr. Suseela Devi Chandran, editor-in-chief of the book, stated that today's meeting was organized to witness the outcome of cooperation between nations, scientists and members of the academic community.

“We have been privileged to publish truly outstanding and comprehensive chapters thanks to the authors, especially our Bosnian colleagues. Their work on this book is a valuable contribution to the world of academia,” said Professor Devi Chandran.