Universitas Muhammadiyah Gresik (UM Gresik) has marked another significant milestone in expanding its international network. UM Gresik officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Pimpinan Cabang Istimewa Muhammadiyah (PCIM) Thailand as part of strengthening global collaboration based on the university’s Tridharma and cross-border humanitarian da’wah.
The MoU signing was attended by UM Gresik’s strategic leadership, including Rector Prof. Dr.Khoirul Anwar, S.Pd., M.Pd., Director of Postgraduate Studies Dr. Rahmat Agus Santoso, S.E., M.M., Dean of the Faculty of Teacher Training and Education Dr. Nur Fauziyah, S.Pd., M.Pd., and Head of the International Relations Office (IRO) Paulina, S.Pd., M.Pd. Representatives from the Faculty of Economics and Business were also present, including Head of the Management Study Program Elok Vilantika, S.E., M.M., along with other members of the academic community.
In his remarks, the Rector of UM Gresik emphasized that the collaboration with PCIM Thailand represents a tangible commitment to integrating academic values and community service at the international level. “This partnership with PCIM Thailand is a concrete manifestation of UM Gresik’s commitment to integrating academic excellence and community engagement on a global scale. It not only expands UM Gresik’s international network, but also strengthens the role of Muhammadiyah higher education institutions in addressing the needs of communities across national boundaries,” said Prof. Dr. Khoirul Anwar.
As a follow-up to the collaboration, UM Gresik and PCIM Thailand agreed to implement an International Community Service Program in Samakkhi, Thailand. The program is designed as a cross-border community engagement initiative involving UM Gresik lecturers and students in educational, social, and community empowerment activities.
Through this program, members of UM Gresik’s academic community will not only gain international exposure but also engage directly with multicultural communities. The activities are expected to enhance cross-cultural understanding while embedding Islamic values of rahmatan lil ‘alamin in real-world global contexts.
Aligned with the implementation of the program, the International Relations Office (IRO) of UM Gresik views the collaboration with PCIM Thailand as a key component of the university’s internationalization strategy with a strong social impact orientation. International community service is positioned as a global learning platform that integrates academic, social, and humanitarian dimensions in a balanced manner.
This collaboration also reflects strong synergy across faculties and academic units within UM Gresik. The involvement of the Faculty of Teacher Training and Education, the Faculty of Economics and Business, and the Postgraduate Program underscores that the university’s international agenda is developed collaboratively and sustainably, rather than merely institutionally.
Through the MoU with PCIM Thailand and the initial implementation of the International Community Service Program in Samakkhi, Thailand, UM Gresik is optimistic about strengthening its role in advancing the Tridharma of higher education at the global level. The collaboration is expected to serve as a foundation for future international programs that deliver tangible benefits to communities across borders.
With this commitment, UM Gresik continues to affirm its identity as a Muhammadiyah university with a global outlook, expanding international networks while delivering meaningful academic, social, and humanitarian contributions on the global stage.