Universitas Islam Riau (UIR) continues to enhance its international cooperation with prominent universities in Japan, deepening partnerships with Nihon University and Chiba University. On 21–24 June 2025, the Rector of UIR, Prof. Dr. rer. pol. H. Syafrinaldi, S.H., M.C.L, along with senior university officials and representatives from YLPI Riau, visited Japan to explore collaborative opportunities. Their arrival was warmly welcomed by Prof. Buntara Ken and Prof. Yamada from Nihon University.

The engagement began with a meeting between UIR and the School of Nihon University to discuss plans for admitting Japanese students to study at UIR in 2026. The cooperation effort with Nihon University first started in 2024 with a Visiting Professor program involving Prof. Buntara Ken at UIR. Both universities plan to expand collaboration across the three pillars of higher education—education, research, and community service—and to implement international mobility programs for both students and faculty members.

Meanwhile, UIR’s cooperation with Chiba University, which began in 2016, has recently been strengthened through the extension of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two institutions. This expanded partnership will involve not only the Faculty of Engineering but also other faculties such as Law, Social Sciences, Economics, Education, and Teacher Training. As part of the agreement, UIR and Chiba University have agreed to send students and lecturers on exchange programs in 2025 to enhance the quality of education and research while further strengthening institutional ties.

The Rector of UIR expressed his hope that these international cooperations will increase the university’s reputation and quality, and provide lasting benefits to both students and lecturers. With this partnership, UIR continues to strengthen its position as an internationally oriented university committed to advancing education and research excellence.