An Exploratory Agreement, Not a Fixed Outcome
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – Arts University Bournemouth (AUB) and University College Fairview (UCF) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to explore potential long-term collaboration in creative and arts education. The agreement follows an initial dialogue between senior leadership from both institutions.
Importantly, the MOU sets out a framework for exploration rather than a predetermined partnership outcome. Both institutions clarified that the agreement focuses on understanding alignment, context, and long-term value before any initiatives move forward.
About Arts University Bournemouth
Arts University Bournemouth is a specialist arts university in the United Kingdom. It is internationally recognised for practice-based education across art, design, media, performance, and architecture. The university also maintains strong links with global creative industries.
AUB’s approach places emphasis on quality, relevance, and institutional integrity in all international engagements.
University College Fairview’s Role in Regional Collaboration
University College Fairview, based in Malaysia, positions itself as a platform institution. Its focus lies in enabling thoughtful international collaboration that remains grounded in regional relevance, academic credibility, and long-term sustainability.
Rather than importing external models wholesale, UCF aims to support partnerships that respect local strengths while engaging with global expertise.
AUB’s Perspective on International Engagement
Speaking after the signing, Lisa Mann, Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive Officer of Arts University Bournemouth, explained AUB’s intent behind the MOU.
“From AUB’s perspective, this is very much an exploratory partnership,” she said. “We are not entering with a fixed outcome in mind. What matters to us is understanding the Malaysian context, recognising local strengths, and identifying genuine alignment, rather than exporting a model that may not fit.”
She also noted that while creative industries operate globally, education partnerships must remain grounded locally.
“Any collaboration needs to respect local identity and national strengths,” she said. “Quality and reputation are non-negotiable for us. That does not mean future initiatives need to look the same as Bournemouth. In fact, they probably should not.”
Fairview’s View on Malaysia’s Growing Role
Dr Vincent Chian, Provost of University College Fairview, shared that Malaysia’s evolving position as a regional connector shaped UCF’s interest in the collaboration.
“We see this MOU as the beginning of a long-term dialogue, not a promise of delivery,” he said. “Malaysia occupies a unique position as a bridge between East and West. Interest from regional and international families and organisations continues to grow, especially in credible pathways for creative and arts education.”
Dr Chian also emphasised that UCF does not seek replication.
“Our goal is not to recreate AUB in Malaysia,” he said. “Instead, we want to explore how AUB’s artistic excellence and pedagogical strengths might intersect with what Malaysia does well. Over time, this could take many forms, or evolve into something we cannot yet define.”
What Comes Next
Both institutions agreed that trust-building, academic standards, and mutual understanding will guide the next phase of discussions. Any future collaboration will require further study, regulatory consideration, and shared agreement.
A Broader Shift in International Higher Education
The MOU reflects a broader shift in international higher education. Institutions increasingly prioritise depth, alignment, and long-term impact over rapid expansion.
For students and families, the agreement signals a commitment to credibility and exposure. For international partners and stakeholders, it positions Malaysia as a serious platform for creative education collaboration in Asia.
