China's Xiamen University and the University of Malaya (UM) Friday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to undertake joint research and exchange of students and staff.

The Memorandum was signed by President of Xiamen University Professor Zhu Chong Shi and UM Vice Chancellor Professor Hashim Yaacob. Malaysian Higher Education Minister Dr. Shafie Salleh witnessed the event.

Speaking after the signing ceremony, Hashim said UM's staff could utilize their sabbatical leave to pursue research or even teaching at Xiamen University.

On the same occasion, Professor Zhu said that Xiamen Universityhas, since 1990, enrolled 1,015 long-distance learning students from Malaysia in programs like Chinese traditional medicine, acupuncture and Chinese language.

Shafie, in his speech, said Malaysia looks forward to more students from China studying in UM as well as other universities and private colleges in the country.

Xiamen University, set up in 1921, is one of a few universitiesin China that offer courses in Southeast Asia Studies.

Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi toured the university in October 2003 during his visit to China.

After the visit, Abdullah proposed the establishment of the Institute of China Studies, which was subsequently established in February this year.