Congratulations to Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tey Shi Bin, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, on the Completion of Her Visiting Professorship at Soka University, Japan
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tey Shi Bin, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (International and Corporate Development) of New Era University College (NEUC), has successfully completed her four-month term as a Visiting Professor at Soka University, Japan, from April 1 to July 31, 2025. Her visiting tenure included engagements in academic exchange, teaching, public lectures at other Japanese universities, and dialogues with the leadership of the Soka education system.
During her tenure, Assoc. Prof.Dr. Tey taught two courses: "Reading the Historical Records (Shiji)" and "Modern Leadership", bringing thought-provoking and cross-cultural academic content to students at Soka University.
As part of her visit, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tey also toured Soka Gakuen, which includes its junior and senior high schools, and engaged in academic discussions with the heads of the institutions. Furthermore, she met with Prof. Mika Suzuki, President of Soka University; Mr. Yoshihide Akiya, Chairperson of the Board; Prof. Sugimoto of the Faculty of International Liberal Arts; and Prof. Takashi Takahashi of the Faculty of Letters, to engage in meaningful academic and institutional exchange. These meetings laid the groundwork for collaborative initiatives, including a proposed short-term study program for Soka University students at NEUC, and the establishment of a Soka Education and Global Citizenship Research Centre at NEUC. This initiative is envisioned to work in synergy with NEUC’s forthcoming Peace Memorial, to further advance peace education.
In addition, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tey was invited to deliver keynote lectures at two prestigious Japanese universities. At Waseda University, invited by Dr. Hung Tak Wai, she delivered a lecture entitled “From Nanyang University to Nantah Building: The Sentiment of Chinese Education in Malaysia-Singapore”, which explored the historical development and cultural significance of Chinese education in the Nanyang region. At Rikkyo University, she was invited by Professor Satoshi Masutani to present “Chinese Language and the World Today”, in which she discussed the evolving role and global trajectory of the Chinese language.
This academic visit was not only a journey of teaching and scholarship but also a profound cross-cultural dialogue. Through her lectures, visits, and exchanges, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tey not only shared the richness of Chinese culture and Malaysian Chinese education, but also strengthened ties between NEUC and Japanese institutions, opening new avenues for international collaboration in higher education.
Beyond her academic responsibilities, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tey also took the opportunity to travel extensively and observe cultural life in Japan. She embraced the nuances of Japanese society with curiosity and respect, using the experience to reflect, grow, and enhance her intercultural understanding.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tey for continuing to lead and participate in institutional affairs remotely during her academic leave. She has truly embodied and shared the spirit of NEUC and Nantah, bringing our values to Japan and inspiring others through her dedication.
