In an effort to strengthen collaboration with internationally reputable universities and enrich students’ academic, research, and intercultural communication competencies, Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta (UNY), in partnership with Universiti Malaya (UM) and Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI) Malaysia, organized a student exchange program. The program took place from 9–12 June 2024 at UM and 13–15 June 2024 at UPSI. A total of 39 students and 9 accompanying lecturers and administrative staff from the Graduate School (SPs), the Faculty of Sports Science and Health (FIKK), the Faculty of Education and Psychology (FIPP), the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences (FMIPA), and the Faculty of Languages, Arts, and Culture (FBSB) participated in this program.

The program aimed to increase student and staff mobility and to develop formal cooperation documents among the collaborating institutions. As part of the exchange activities, students took part in the International Conference of Sports and Exercise Science Studies 2024 (ICSESS 2024) hosted at UM. At this conference, students presented their research in the form of papers and posters. The conference activities included workshops on research methodology, academic writing workshops, and the main conference sessions. Additionally, students had the opportunity to perform Indonesian traditional dances, participate in social activities with students from other universities, and visit various cultural and tourist destinations in Kuala Lumpur.

On Monday (10 June), the opening lecture was delivered by Dr. Maryam from UM. The lecture provided an inspiring and in-depth exploration of qualitative and quantitative research design across multiple disciplines. Dr. Maryam’s comprehensive presentation illuminated the research process from idea generation to producing robust findings, covering every stage from conceptualization to data analysis. Through this session, students not only gained valuable insights into core research methodology but were also equipped with practical tools to begin their own research journey. Dr. Maryam explained the processes of identifying research ideas, designing studies, selecting appropriate methodologies, developing research instruments, and refining analytical techniques, offering participants a holistic understanding of the research workflow.

This exchange program stands as a symbol of academic collaboration, facilitating the exchange of knowledge and expertise between UNY and UM. Through Dr. Maryam’s public lecture, students were exposed to diverse perspectives while being equipped with critical skills needed to navigate the global academic landscape. By fostering a culture of collaboration and shared learning, the program aims to empower a new generation of researchers ready to address future challenges.

As the student exchange program progresses, it continues to offer a transformative experience for all participants, providing a platform for intercultural engagement and academic enrichment. With Dr. Maryam’s lecture as a catalyst, students are well-prepared to embark on a journey of exploration and innovation, equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to make meaningful contributions to their respective fields. UNY and UM look forward to the continued success of this partnership, nurturing sustained academic collaboration and supporting the intellectual growth of students on both sides.