The Macau University of Science and Technology (MUST) is collaborating Times Higer Education (THE) to hold “Times Higher Education Asia Universities summit 2025” from 22nd to 24th April, 2025 in Macau for the very first time. Theme of the summit this year is “Asia's rise: A transformative journey in science, technology and innovation”, the event has brought together over nearly 1,000 participants, around 650 university leaders, senior managements, and policymakers from higher education institutions worldwide. Featuring approximately 30 exhibition booths, the summit aims to share innovative ideas in higher education development and strengthen global collaboration among academic institutions.

Opening ceremony

The summit will explore Asia's ascent as a leading hub for innovation in science, technology, society and research. It will highlight the pivotal role played by prominent institutions in fostering a strong research culture across the region. Asia's commitment to knowledge-driven development has led to groundbreaking discoveries and technological advancements, reshaping global scientific landscapes. Speakers will discuss how Asia's economic growth – fuelled by investments in research and development – has created dynamic innovation ecosystems. They will also showcase collaborative efforts through regional initiatives such as ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) and APEC (Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation), which are accelerating scientific progress. As well as celebrating Asia's achievements, the summit will acknowledge the challenges ahead, advocating for the ethical use of emerging technologies, investment in science education and infrastructure, and the promotion of inclusivity in the scientific community.

Opening ceremony Performance: Kun Dance “Swallow in the Forest”

The opening ceremony was kicked off with a beautiful Kun Dance performance, “Swallow in the Forest” by the MUST Art Troupe Chinese Folk Dance Team. Chair Prof Joseph Hun-wei Lee, Vice Chancellor and President of MUST, Mr. Phil Baty, Chief Global Affairs Officer at THE and Ms. Mei Mei Lim, President of the Asia Pacific Region at THE, delivered speeches respectively. 

Chair Prof Joseph Hun-wei Lee, Vice Chancellor and President of MUST deliver opening remarks

President Lee expressed “We are proud to host this Summit which is a meeting of minds from the best Asian universities as well as aspiring dynamic young institutions. Since establishment MUST has dedicated to fostering excellence in education, research and innovation. As we look to the future, we believe that through worldwide collaborations, we can address global challenges, drive innovation, and create a brighter future for all. I look forward to the insights and connections that will emerge during the Summit. There will be many opportunities as Macao rapidly emerges to become an international hub of scientific and technology where top talents converge.” 

Mr. Phil Baty, Chief Global Affairs Officer at THE deliver opening remarks

Ms. Mei Mei Lim, President of the Asia Pacific Region at THE deliver opening remarks

Mr. Phil Baty, Chief Global Affairs Officer at THE, said: “Asia is vital to the future success of the world, and we are delighted to be hosting such a timely and relevant event to explore higher education’s innovations in science, technology, society and research. This event in Macau will be a real highlight and gathering of great leadership to showcase the growth of world-class research hubs across Asia.”

Dr. Kong Chi Meng, Director of Education and Youth Development Bureau of Macao SAR deliver opening speech

Dr. Kong Chi Meng, Director of Education and Youth Development Bureau of Macao SAR also attended the Opening Ceremony, he said “Under globalization, cross-regional collaboration has become an integral component of the internationalization process in higher education. Macao's unique multilingual and cultural environment provide an ideal platform for academic exchanges, educational innovation, and scientific research. The theme of this summit aligns with the rapid development trends of Asia’s higher education while reflecting the opportunities and challenges. Through the exchanges and collaborations at this summit, we believe Macao's higher education will further integrate into Asia's as well as global educational network, fulfilling the responsibilities and contributions to cultivate talents and driving regional and global development.”

Inauguration Ceremony Photo

The officiating guests including: Dr. Kong Chi Meng, Director of Education and Youth Development Bureau of Macao SAR, Mr. Li Xuefei, Director of the Education and Youth Affairs Department of the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in the Macao SAR, Dr. Liu Chak Wan, Chancellor of MUST, Mr. Phil Baty, Chief Global Affairs Officer at THE, Chair Prof. Joseph Hun-wei Lee, Vice Chancellor and President of MUST, Ms. Mei Mei Lim, President of the Asia Pacific Region at THE, and participants from around the world witnessed the opening ceremony of the Times Higher Education Asia University Summit 2025.