CityU hosts “Forum on Education in Malaysia and Macau” to discuss how AI contributes to transforming the future of education
To promote educational exchange and cooperation between Macao and Malaysia, City University of Macau (CityU) held the “Forum on Education in Malaysia and Macau” today at the Ho Yin Convention Centre in Taipa Campus. The forum invited principals from various schools, including Tsun Jin High School, Chung Ling Private High School, San Min Independent High School, Pui Ching Middle School, Lou Hau High School, and the Escola Choi Nong Chi Tai, to engage in in-depth discussions on the theme of “Cooperation for Minds, Transforming Future,” focusing on “How does education among minds contributing to transforming futures in education?” The forum was supported by the Macao SAR Government Education and Youth Development Bureau (DSEDJ) and the United Chinese School Committees’ Association of Malaysia (Dong Zong). Teng Sio Hong, DSEDJ Deputy Director, Leong Seng Yee, Chief Executive Officer of Dong Zong, and Rector Jun Liu attended the event and delivered remarks.
Deputy Director Teng Sio Hong pointed out that 2024 marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and Malaysia, highlighting the development of a long-term friendly cooperative relationship between the two countries. He emphasized the importance of cooperation with Malaysia in the field of education, noting that Macao serves as a vital window for exchanges between China and the world. He also highlighted the cooperation agreement signed with Dong Zong to encourage and promote Malaysian students to apply to higher education institutions in Macao. Deputy Director Teng expressed hope for deeper educational cooperation and exchanges between the Macao SAR and Malaysia, as well as with Dong Zong, to jointly create an international platform for the comprehensive development of students.
Chief Executive Officer Leong Seng Yee introduced the history of Chinese education in Malaysia, which spans at least two hundred years. He noted that the steadfast promotion of Chinese language learning and the inheritance of Chinese culture has been achieved through the concerted efforts and resources of the local Chinese community. As a result, Malaysia has developed the most comprehensive education system from primary school to higher education outside of China, making its Chinese education uniquely distinctive. He highlighted the importance of academic and educational professionalism in future Chinese education, noting that advanced educational philosophies will drive enhancement. He expressed hope to learn from Macao’s educational professionals to enrich and promote Chinese language education in Malaysia.
Rector Jun Liu analyzed the similarities between the English names of Macao and Malaysia, expressing hope that the forum would provide attendees with a platform to broaden their thinking and perspectives. Through the exchange of ideas and collaborative efforts, he envisioned a more diverse future.
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Following this, Chief Executive Officer Leong introduced Malaysia’s education system and provided an overview of Dong Zong. He discussed the unique characteristics of education in the region, including school sizes and the landscape of further education for students in both domestic and overseas institutions, while highlighting the operation of Chinese independent schools in Malaysia.
Deputy Director Teng provided an overview of Macao’s overall education situation, addressing both non-tertiary and tertiary education sectors. He pointed out that since the establishment of the Macao SAR, the government has actively promoted the philosophies of “Macao Thrives on Education” and “Building Macao through Talent Training” and has fully committed to talent cultivation, resulting in remarkable achievements.
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The panel discussion was moderated by Prof. Dai Yi from the School of Education. The speakers included Principal Loh Hong Seng of Tsun Jin High School, Principal Ng Jooi Seah of Chung Ling Private High School, Principal Foo Wing Meng of San Min Independent High School, Principal Kou Kam Fai of Pui Ching Middle School, Principal Zheng Jiezhao of Lou Hau High School, and Principal Vong Kuoc Ieng of Escola Choi Nong Chi Tai.
In the context of artificial intelligence (AI), the education sector is undergoing profound transformation. The principals shared the challenges they face and emphasized the need for the education community to actively respond to the impacts of AI, enhance their capabilities, and guide students in the effective use of AI technology. They also expressed hope for support from the government. In discussing the challenges posed by AI, they proposed various strategies, reflecting the determination of educators in both regions to actively explore and implement educational transformation.
They agreed on the importance of minimizing the negative impacts of AI technology while correctly leveraging it for positive outcome. They emphasized the need to educate students on the proper use of emerging technologies and to actively seek avenues for coexistence and mutual benefits with AI. The principals believed that, in the age of AI, students should develop skills in interpersonal communication and collaboration, learn to utilize intelligent tools for continuous exploration and innovation, and cultivate their digital literacy and analytical abilities. Moreover, they agreed that virtue is an essential quality for students.
During the exchange session, CityU students posed questions regarding the changing roles of teachers, how to cultivate students’ reflective abilities, differentiated instruction, and educational reform. The principals responded enthusiastically, creating a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere.
In conclusion, Rector Jun Liu noted that the school principals presented insightful viewpoints during their discussions, many of which shared common themes. He outlined six key takeaways:
1. Education in the age of AI has no borders; this urgent issue made today’s discussion particularly meaningful.
2. Education must be distinct from technology; future education should be guided by educators.
3. Educational reform in the AI era cannot overlook equity; policies should be established to ensure that even disadvantaged students can benefit.
4. In the face of AI, all teachers are learners; support must be provided to older educators to help them master AI tools and integrate them into their teaching.
5. The future of AI in education must be reshaped; the primary role of teachers should shift from imparting knowledge to helping students develop effective learning strategies.
6. How to fully express individual personalities and promote collaboration and communication in the AI era is a topic that requires ongoing discussion and research. Rector Jun Liu encouraged educators to strengthen communication and work together to address the contradictions arising from the development of education and technology.
On the morning, a delegation of Malaysian principals visited CityU, where they received a warm welcome from Rector Liu. The guests toured the teaching facilities and campus environment, followed by a discussion on topics such as international talent cultivation, educational cooperation, and cultural exchange.
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Attendees at the forum included representatives from various Malaysian schools, such as Hua Lian High School Taiping, Yuk Choy High School, Chong Hwa Independent High School, Chung Hua High School Seremban, Ming Lik Secondary School, and Confucian Private Secondary School. They were joined by principals and representatives from Macao, including Colégio Diocesano de São José (5ª), Macao Sam Yuk Middle School, Escola Sun Wah, Escola Secundária Técnico-Profissional da Associação Geral dos Operários de Macau, Escola Estrela do Mar, Kao Yip Middle School, Kwong Tai Middle School Macau, Sheng Kung Hui Choi Kou School (Macau), Keang Peng School, Lou Hau High School, Escola dos Moradores de Macau, Our Lady of Fatima Girls’ School, and Pui Va Middle School, along with representatives from CityU faculty and students.
Photo credits: CityU Reporters
