UNAIR at UTM Mobility Carnival 2026: Expanding Horizons Through Global Partnerships
UNAIR Showcases Global Presence
Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) took part in the UTM Mobility Carnival 2.0 (UMC) 2026, hosted by Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) in Johor Bahru from 23-25 June 2026. The event gathered more than 80 delegates from 51 leading universities representing 19 countries, making it a significant platform for global academic exchange. UNAIR’s participation reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening international visibility through academic mobility programs, global research networks, and cross-border educational initiatives.
This year’s carnival carried the theme “Explore the World, Expand Your Future”, which emphasizes the importance of international exposure as a gateway to broader opportunities in education, research, and career development. The tagline reflects the vision of encouraging students and academics to go beyond national boundaries, embrace global experiences, and expand their future prospects through meaningful collaborations.
The UNAIR delegation was represented by Dr. Irfan Wahyudi, Director of Airlangga Global Engagement (AGE), Ms. Astria Okta Herdiani, Division Head of International Mobility, and Dr Febdian Rusydi, Lecturer of Physics Department, Faculty of Science and Technology. Their presence highlighted UNAIR’s dedication to promoting student exchange, academic visits, summer schools, and collaborative research opportunities.
Program Highlights and Activities
The three day carnival featured diverse and interactive activities. This event provided a space to showcase the participants’ institutional profile and to promote student mobility programs which are available for UTM students. On 23 June 2026, the program began with exhibition at the Student Union Building (SUB), cultural performances, and entrepreneurship showcases, followed by a campus tour of UTM.
On 24 June 2026, the exhibition was continued, and also the participants had opportunities to discuss collaboration opportunities with UTM academics. The day also included cultural shows and entrepreneurship activities, culminating in a welcoming reception and opening ceremony at Pulai Spring Resort which was led by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic and International) of UTM, Prof. Ts. Dr. Intan Zaurah binti Mat Darus
The final day, 25 June 2026, continued with the exhibition at SUB UTM and concluded with a Johor Bahru city tour, offering delegates the chance to experience the local culture and community. UNAIR delegations also had an opportunity to discuss with Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mohd Ariffin B. Abu Hassan, the Director of UTM International, in a strategic meeting during the event.
Reflection on Internationalization and SDGs
UNAIR’s participation in UTM Carnival 2026 was not merely about attending an international event, but part of a broader strategy of campus internationalization. Through this engagement, UNAIR expanded academic networks, strengthened cross-border research collaborations, and opened new opportunities for student and faculty mobility.
This initiative also aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education) by enhancing access to high-quality education, and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) by fostering global partnerships. By joining UTM Carnival 2026, UNAIR reaffirmed its role as a university that excels nationally while actively contributing to sustainable development and global academic collaboration.
Author: Gressendy Zahwarani
