MALAYSIAN-AMERICAN COMMISSION

ON EDUCATIONAL EXCHANGE

Celebrating 60 Years of Educational Diplomacy

1963 - 2023
01 OVERVIEW 4

02 MACEE GOVERNANCE 5

03 TEAM MACEE 6

04 FULBRIGHT SUCCESS AT A GLANCE 7

05 PROMINENT FULBRIGHTERS 8

06 MILESTONES 9

07 MALAYSIAN PROGRAM 11-29

08 AMERICAN PROGRAM 30-32

09 GRANT BENEFITS / 33

GRANT TERMS & CONDITIONS /

ENGLISH LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS

10 HOW TO APPLY 34

11 FAQ 35-36

12 CONTACT INFORMATION 37

TABLE OF CONTENTS
 The Signing Ceremony of the Binational Agreement on January 28, 1963
From left: 1) Datuk Abdullah Bin Sahat, Secretary-General of Malaysian Ministry Of Education 2) Tuan Haji Abdul
Hamid Khan, Malaysian Minister Of Education 3) Harry Casler, Director Of USIS Malaysia, 4) Ambassador Charles F.
Baldwin, second U.S. Ambassador to Malaysia

OVERVIEW
The Senator J. William Fulbright Program is an educational exchange program
administered globally in 160 countries, 49 of which have binational commissions.

The Malaysian-American Commission on Educational Exchange (MACEE) was founded

on 28 January 1963 through an agreement signed by both Malaysian and the United
States governments to promote educational and cultural exchanges between the two
countries, primarily through the prestigious program. Since its inception, more than
1,000 Malaysian Fulbrighters have been sent to the U.S. under the Fulbright Program.
Additionally, more than 2,000 Fulbright U.S. grantees have participated in the program in
Malaysia.

MACEE remains committed to its mission in “building bridges and transforming lives”
through “Educational Diplomacy” by tirelessly improving educational and professional
accessibility and opportunity for all eligible Malaysians and Americans.

Annually, grantees from both Malaysia and the United States engage in a rigorous
application and interview process in an effort to be selected for the purposes of
studying, teaching, and conducting research while enjoying the opportunity for cross-
cultural experiences with academic leaders from around the world.
MACEE GOVERNANCE
As a binational commission, MACEE is granted operating authority by both the
Government of Malaysia and the United States through its Honorary Co-Chairs: the
Minister of Higher Education and the United States Ambassador to Malaysia.

MACEE's Board of Directors consists of 10 regular members - five from each country -
who are appointed by the Honorary Co-Chairs. MACEE is the only entity structured in
this manner in Malaysia.

H O N O R A R Y C O - C H A I R S

MINISTER OF HIGHER EDUCATION U.S. AMBASSADOR TO MALAYSIA

YB DATO’ SERI HIS EXCELLENCY
HAJI MOHAMED KHALED BIN NORDIN BRIAN D. MCFEETERS

B O A R D L E A D E R S H I P

CHAIR
DATIN NOORAZAH BINTI OMAR
UNDERSECRETARY INTERNATIONAL
RELATIONS,
MINISTRY OF HIGHER EDUCATION (MOHE)
VICE-CHAIR
MELINDA "MINDY" MASONIS
PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICER,
THE U.S EMBASSY IN MALAYSIA
TEAM MACEE
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
CURTIS JOHNSON
As the Executive Director of MACEE, Mr Johnson and his team
focus on ways to “Build Bridges and Transform Lives” through
what he calls “Educational Diplomacy” between the United
States and Malaysia. This is realized primarily through the
management and facilitation of the prestigious William J.
Fulbright Scholarship program. Curtis brings his extensive
background in Government Relations and Public Affairs with
close to 20 combined years of experience working in the
Executive and Legislative branches of the U.S. government as
well as in various countries throughout ASEAN.

FULBRIGHT MALAYSIA EXTERNAL RELATIONS

PROGRAM TEAM DATIN SHARIFAH IKHLAS SYED ISMAIL ALJAFREE
KALIS SUBRAMANIAM
FULBRIGHT SENIOR PROGRAM MANAGER
COMMUNICATIONS &
KARENJIT KAUR
FULBRIGHT PROGRAM COORDINATOR (MALAYSIAN )
ALUMNI RELATIONS
ASMA WAN AHMAD NAJIB
LEENA RAJAGOPAL
FULBRIGHT PROGRAM COORDINATOR (AMERICAN)
OPERATION SUPPORT
SIVARAJAH CHIDAMBARAM
SENIOR ACCOUNTANT
ARUL PRAKASH
 FULBRIGHT SUCCESS
AT A GLANCE

400,000
Fulbrighters globally since
its inception in 1946
8,000 41
Grants awarded annually Heads of State (current
across the globe. or former) serving
communities around the
world.

62 89
Nobel Prize Winners Pulitzer Prize Winners
recognized for their recognized for their work in
outstanding achievements in American arts and journalism.
various fields.
 PROMINENT
MALAYSIAN FULBRIGHTERS
1. Late Tan Sri Dato Haji Dr. Ani Arope 8. Prof. Dato’ Dr.
Chairman & CEO, Tenaga Nasional Marimuthu Thangaveloo
Berhad (TNB) (1990-1996) Deputy Minister of Agriculture (1994-
Fulbright Malaysian Scholar (1964) 1995)

Professor, Sociology, Diaspora &

International Relations
2. Late Tan Sri Dato’ Dr. Elyas Omar Fulbright Scholar Program (1987)
Mayor of Kuala Lumpur (1981-1992)

Fulbright Malaysian Scholar (1964)

9. Prof. Emeritus Dato' Osman Bakar

Professor, Islamic Philosophy

3. Professor Emeritus Tan Sri Datuk Fulbright Scholar Program (1992)
Dr. Augustine Ong Soon Hock

President; Malaysian Oil Scientists and 10. Ramli Ibrahim

Technologists Association Director, Sutra Dance Theatre
Fulbright Visiting Scholar Program Fulbright Visiting Scholar (1999)
(1966)

11. Datuk Paduka Marina Mahathir

4. Tan Sri Profesor Datuk Seri Patron, Malaysia AIDS Foundation
Panglima Dr Abu Hassan Othman Fulbright Visiting Scholar Program
Director YTL Land & Development Bhd (2002)
Chairman of MQA (2016 - 2018)

Fulbright Malaysian Student Program

(1973) 12. Dr. Ong Kian Ming

Deputy Minister of International Trade

and Industry of Malaysia (2018–2020)

5. Dato' Dr. Fong Chan Onn Fulbright Malaysian Scholar Program,
Minister of Human Resources (1999- (2004)
2008)

Fulbright Exchange Scholar (1979)

13. Prof Emeritus Datuk Dr.

Mohammed Ghouse Nasuruddin

Professor, Islamic Studies

6. Datuk Seri Mustapa Bin Mohamed
Fulbright Professional Exchange
Minister in the Prime Minister's
Program (2005)
Department of Economic Affairs

(2021-2022)

Hubert Humphrey Fellowship (1980) 14. Prof. Dr. Saran Kaur

UKM Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Industry

and Community Partnerships) (2007)

7. Tan Sri Dato' Dr. Koh Tsu Koon Fulbright Scholar Program (2005)
Minister in the Prime Minister's

Department (2009-2013)

Fulbright Visiting Scholar Program 15. Prof. Emerita Tan Sri Dr. Mazlan
(1981) Othman

Malaysia's First Astrophysicist

Fulbright Visiting Scholar Program

(2015)
MILESTONES
The newly formed Malaysian
government signs a binational
1963 agreement with the United States.
MACEE opens its doors.
MACEE sends its first Fulbright
1964 awardee to the U.S. ; the late Tan Sri
Dato' Dr. Ani Arope under the
Graduate & Research Program.
MACEE succeeds in getting
1966 Malaysian government to
recognize more American degrees.
MARA Institute of Technology
begins partnership with MACEE in
1967 efforts to place Malaysian students
in the U.S.
MACEE facilitates Malaysian of
1972 participation in East-West Center
(EWC) programs in Honolulu, Hawaii
MACEE selects the first class of Hubert
H. Humphrey North-South Fellows.
1979
MACEE is officially appointed as the
official U.S. college entrance exam
facility in Malaysia.
MEAC becomes known as
1988 EducationUSA
Introduction of GE Foundation
1991 Scholarship; Islamic Studies, and
Fulbright-Hays Program
MACEE moves to 191, Jalan Tun
1994 Razak (Kuala Lumpur City Center)
MACEE's Educational Information
Center (EIC) becomes MACEE's
1996 Educational Advising Center
(MEAC); MACEE goes online.
Fulbright Alumni Association of
1998 Malaysia (FAAM) is created by
Malaysian program alumni.
Fulbright English Teaching
2006 Assistance (ETA) Program is
launched in Malaysia.
Revision of Bilateral Fulbright
Agreement is signed between
2010 Malaysian MOHE Minister Datuk
Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin and
U.S. Deputy Chief of
Mission/Charge d'Affaires Mr.
Robert Rapson
MACEE sends its 1,000th
2022 grantee to the U.S.
MACEE celebrates its 60th
2023 Anniversary.
PROGRAM BRIEF
 FULBRIGHT PROGRAMS FOR
MALAYSIANS

1. MALAYSIAN GRADUATE STUDY &

RESEARCH

2. MALAYSIAN SCHOLAR

3. PROFESSIONAL EXCHANGE

4. U.S.-ASEAN INITIATIVE

5. HUBERT H. HUMPHREY FELLOWSHIP

6. SCHOLAR-IN-RESIDENCE

7. TEACHING EXCELLENCE &

ACHIEVEMENT (TEA)

8. FOREIGN LANGUAGE TEACHING

ASSISTANCE (FLTA)

9. GLOBAL UNDERGRADUATE
EXCHANGE (GLOBAL UGRAD)

10. FULBRIGHT SPECIALIST

1. MALAYSIAN GRADUATE STUDY
& RESEARCH PROGRAM

NATURE OF AWARD
This scholarship is for Malaysians interested in
pursuing a Master's or Doctoral degree at an
accredited U.S. university. MACEE Fulbright
Program offers funding for two years of study for
every successful awardee. The grantee, in
partnership with MACEE, will choose universities
that matches their field of study.

ELIGIBILITY
Malaysian citizen
A Bachelor's degree holder with honors
Meet the minimum language requirement. Refer to
the program announcement.

AWARD BENEFIT
USD 30,000 per year for a maximum of 2 years of
study regardless of degree or curriculum sought.
University placement support
Health insurance coverage

AWARD DURATION
Master's - Maximum of 2 years
Ph.D. - Maximum of 2 years

APPLICATION CYCLE
Open - March
Close - May

* Exact date varies from year to year. Please refer to MACEE website
for exact announcement date.
 MALAYSIAN GRADUATE STUDY
& RESEARCH
SAMUEL ISAIAH
FY2019-2020 | STATE UNIVERSITY OF NEW YORK, ALBANY (SUNY)

"Being accepted into the Malaysian Graduate Study

and Research Program was a dream come true. My
pursuit of a Master's in Educational Policy and
Leadership was realized at the State University of
New York, Albany (SUNY). As a public school teacher
of 7 years, championing education reform in a rural
indigenous school in Malaysia, I came to the
realization that I had a gap in knowledge, global
experience, and exposure.

I looked for opportunities to bridge that gap, to

ensure that I could serve and contribute to
Malaysian education better. In my search, I was
blessed to have had the opportunity to engage
with a number of Fulbright alumni. Their
passionate stories and the glimmer in their eyes
belied the passion of their amazing experiences,
and how they grew and learned from their time in
the program made Fulbright the right choice for
me.

What was most memorable about the experience

were the frequent critical discourse and debates,
comparing policies of different countries all in an
effort to make the world a better place. I am
blessed to have witnessed the true essence of
global citizenship firsthand through my Fulbright
experience, that when like-minded people come
together, we can change the world."

2. M A L A Y S I A N S C H O L A R
PROGRAM

NATURE OF AWARD
If you are a Ph.D. holder and on a Malaysian
university's teaching staff, this scholarship affords
you the opportunity to conduct research or lecture
at a university in the U.S.!
Grantees will experience the opportunity of a
lifetime, as they partner with distinguished
colleagues in the United States in their desired field
of practice.

ELIGIBILITY
Doctorate-level degree holders with five (5) years
of teaching experience in the proposed field.
A letter of invitation from the U.S. university of
choice prior to application.
A current faculty member at a Malaysian university
or a higher education institution in Malaysia; and
Eligible for sabbatical or appropriate leave.

AWARD BENEFIT
Monthly stipend
Additional limited financial support for dependents.
One-time Settling-in allowance
One-time Professional Development allowance.
Health insurance (for grantee only)

AWARD DURATION
3 - 6 months
ANNOUNCEMENT OF APPLICATION
Open - July
Close - September

* Exact date varies from year to year. Please refer to MACEE website
for exact announcement date.
MALAYSIAN SCHOLAR
PROF. DR. TAZUL IZAN TAJUDDIN
FY2015-2016 | HARVARD UNIVERSITY

"I applied to the Fulbright not only because of the

reputation, but also the prestigious alumni who
have excelled in all fields including my own: Music.
The program allowed me to immerse myself in the
experience of being a global citizen which was a
catalyst for my mind to be open, free, creative, and
inventive.

I connected and established rapport with not only

Americans but also international scholars through
the composers’ colloquium at Harvard. I attended
almost 50 events and concerts in the Boston area
such as the Boston Conservatory of Music, New
England Conservatory of Music, Boston University
School of Music, Berklee College of Music, and
Harvard Radcliffe Institute amongst many others.

While at Harvard, I made it a point to share my Malaysian culture through a talk at the
composer’s colloquium organized by the postgraduate composition students at the
Music Department. Later that year, I also presented my composition work called
‘Opera Puteri Saadong’ which has elements of Malaysian culture such as ‘Makyong’ and
gamelan to share with communities in Japan and England too. I personally was able to
expand my understanding of other cultures by participating in local Tango dance
events and attending recitals, talks, and seminars to understand more about the
musical culture in the U.S. and how it parallels Malaysian culture.

After the program, I received many awards including the highest national academic
awards in arts and creativity ‘Anugerah Akademik Negara 2017: Seni & Kreaviti’ and
Top 10 Legendary Composer Award 2019 in Malaysia. I am appointed as the Dean
Faculty of Music UiTM, President of the Society of Malaysian Contemporary
Composers (SMCC), Vice President of the Fulbright Alumni Association Malaysia
(FAAM) and new coming up creative works ‘Opera Serikandi Nusantara’ funded and
supported by CENDANA. All these journeys has contributed to the professorship that I
received in April 2022."
 3. M A L A Y S I A N P R O F E S S I O N A L
EXCHANGE PROGRAM

NATURE OF AWARD
If you are a mid-level professional or practitioner
from the public or private sector, this program will
allow you the opportunity to broaden your
professional experience and understanding
through a variety of research, lecture, and
professional enrichment programs.

ELIGIBILITY
Malaysian citizen
A Master’s degree or equivalent professional
qualification in the field of interest

AWARD BENEFIT
Monthly stipend
Additional limited financial support for dependents
One-time Settling-in allowance
One-time Professional Development allowance
Health insurance (for grantee only)

AWARD DURATION
3 - 6 months

ANNOUNCEMENT OF APPLICATION
Open - August
Close - September

* Exact date varies from year to year. Please refer to MACEE website
for exact announcement date.
MALAYSIAN PROFESSIONAL
EXCHANGE
DR. SALMAAN HUSSAIN INAYAT HUSSAIN
FY2017-2018 | YALE UNIVERSITY

"The Professional Exchange is a wonderful program

that creates opportunities for collaboration
amongst professionals for the purpose of
broadening and sharing experiences through
consultation, participation in seminars and
workshops, and other professional programs in the
U.S.

I was very fortunate to learn about the Fulbright

from my former colleagues, several of whom are
alums. I was inspired by their enthusiasm for the
experiences of studying, living, and working in the
US and I hoped that the Program would enrich and
broaden my academic and industrial experiences.

Since returning to Malaysia I have had a number of

opportunities to highlight the benefits and
accomplishments of the Fulbright Program to the
media. I have been featured in a number of print
and online articles, including a profile on the Yale
School of Public Health website and in major
Malaysian newspapers.

I have been appointed an Adjunct Professor at Yale

School of Public Health for a period of 5 years from
2019-2023. This has been a great honor and
privilege to me personally and as a Malaysian. This
appointment assures the continuation of the
synergy between my work in industry and
academia as well as a fulfilling collaboration with
Yale. This would have not been possible without the
Fulbright Program."

4. U . S . - A S E A N
INITIATIVE PROGRAM

NATURE OF AWARD
The objective of the Fulbright U.S.–ASEAN Visiting
Scholar Initiative is to deepen people-to-people
engagement and strengthen ties between Malaysia,
the United States, and the 10 member nations of
ASEAN, in areas of ASEAN priorities.
The grantee will carry out scholarly and professional
research projects on priority issues to the U.S.–
ASEAN relationship and ASEAN as whole.

ELIGIBILITY
Malaysian citizen.
Can be a working professional from:
University Faculty,
Foreign Ministry,
Government, or
Professionals in the private sector, think tanks, or
other NGOs whose work focuses on U.S.-ASEAN
issues.

AWARD BENEFIT
Roundtrip airfare
Monthly stipend
Professional and Settling-in allowance
Health insurance coverage

AWARD DURATION
3 - 4 months

ANNOUNCEMENT OF APPLICATION
Open - September
Close - December

* Exact date varies from year to year. Please refer to MACEE website for
exact announcement date.
 U.S.-ASEAN INITIATIVE
DR. FAKHRUL HAZMAN YUSOFF
FY2017 | SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY AND A & M COLLEGE,
BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA

"My journey with Fulbright started with a personal

quest to lead my Ph.D. students by example in
expanding our worldview on engaging reputable
professors, particularly in the U.S. In 2015 an
advertisement about US Visiting Scholars caught my
attention as I felt this was the opportunity to leverage
my goals and encourage my students to grow
avenues of understanding new perspectives in our
research. I took the opportunity and was accepted!

During my stay on campus, I was fortunate to be

acquainted with various professors in the university
ranging from the School of Business, Language as well
as Computer Science itself. This broadened my
network and reach for future collaborations. On top of
that, I got to know several international students with
whom I still communicate to this day. A great point to
add is that the Fulbright program does not confine you
to the host university.

While in the U.S., Fulbrighters from all over the country are invited to conferences,
seminars, and gatherings where we were able to network with Fulbrighters from around
the world. I still maintain many of those connections, engaging in chat groups
discussing collaboration opportunities, as well as sending birthdays wishes and
acknowledging the cultural celebrations of my lifelong Fulbright friends and colleagues
globally.

All in all, Fulbright opened an opportunity for me to become a global citizen, where now I
have friends and community in places I'd never imagined. The Fulbright program makes
me appreciate human beings and the diversity that makes us stronger. This diversity is
for us to celebrate for the betterment of mankind not only for today, but for the next
generation as well."
5. H U B E R T H . H U M P H R E Y
FELLOWSHIP PROGRAM

NATURE OF AWARD
If you are an accomplished, and mid-career
professional with demonstrated leadership program
is for you.
This prestigious non-degree program is designed
for future leaders and policymakers of Malaysia.
Humphrey Fellows pursue personally tailored study
programs at participating host institutions where
grantees have the flexibility to pursue a self-
directed, individualized program.

ELIGIBILITY
Malaysian citizen.
Demonstrate commitment to public service and
leadership
Minimum of 5 years of professional experience in
the public or private sector
A Bachelor's degree holder with honors
Meeting Fulbright language requirement

AWARD BENEFIT
Roundtrip airfare
Monthly stipends
Health insurance coverage.

AWARD DURATION
10 months

ANNOUNCEMENT OF APPLICATION
Open - April
Close - July

* Exact date varies from year to year. Please refer to MACEE website
for exact announcement date. 17
Hubert Horatio Humphrey
 HUBERT H. HUMPHREY FELLOW
SHARMILLA GANESAN
2015/2016 | UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND

"As a journalist, I was at a point in my career where I

wanted to learn about my field in other countries and
contexts while at the same time discussing and
learning from each other's challenges. I was also
ready to think about the next step in my career, and
wanted to spend a year immersed in learning and new
experiences. I made sure to have many conversations
with both Americans and Fellows from other
countries around the globe. I also spent a significant
amount of time attending arts and cultural events in
various parts of the US, where I met and exchanged
experiences with many people of diverse
backgrounds.

I found that we are all proud of our cultures, and

excited to share if given a comfortable space to do so.
As someone who works in the realm of arts, I found
that arts and culture provide a great way to connect
and find commonalities – whether food, music, dance,
movies, or visual art.

I met people from countries I had only vaguely heard of and learned about so many
different cultures, political structures, and humanitarian issues from all corners of the
world. And till today, through these connections, I’m able to feel a sense of connection
to a larger world out there.

The fellowship certainly increased opportunities for me in my professional field as the

Presenter and Producer at BFM 89.9 radio station, both by showing me new ways to
innovate in my career and by giving me an incredible network of people and
information to draw on, for years to come."
 6. S C H O L A R - I N - R E S I D E N C E

PROGRAM

NATURE OF AWARD
The Fulbright Scholar-in-Residence (S-I-R) is a
non-degree program that provides opportunities to
Malaysian scholars for a semester or academic year
of research and teaching in the United States. The
fully-funded program is not an annual program and
is initiated by the host to enhance cross-cultural
understanding and internationalization initiatives.
Application is only available upon host institution
request.

ELIGIBILITY
Malaysian citizen
Applicant must have a minimum of 5 years of
professional experience in the public or private
sector and a Bachelor's degree (with honors) holder
Meeting Fulbright language requirements

AWARD BENEFIT
Grantee will receive monthly stipends
A one-time allowance for Settling-in.
Dependent allowance will be provided (if
applicable)
Grantee will be provided Health Insurance
coverage (only for grantee)
AWARD DURATION
10 months

ANNOUNCEMENT OF APPLICATION
Open - April
Close - July

* Exact date varies from year to year. Please refer to MACEE website
for exact announcement date.
SCHOLAR-IN-RESIDENCE
DR. SING MUK NG
FY2014 – 2015 | WINSTON SALEM STATE UNIVERSITY,
NORTH CAROLINA

"Participating in the Scholar in Residence (SIR) Fulbright program was a life-changing

event for me. The attachment was for almost 6 months, starting from mid-December
2014 and completed on May 2015.

Joining the Fulbright program has really brought a huge impact on my personal life
and my career path. It is a door to learning new foreign cultures by living physically
and interacting face-to-face with the community for a duration of time. It was
completely different compared to a holiday visit to a place over one to two weeks as
one will not be able to explore deeply and really immerse into the culture, practice, and
ideology of a foreign community.

The Fulbright opportunity has enabled me to experience various aspects of a foreign

community including their social economic values, political ideology, historical
background, and education system. The future collaboration with the academic
members in the States will definitely be beneficial in my future undertakings in the
world of academia. All the values learned and experienced can be shared and
hopefully will become a tool to create mutual understanding between different
communities, which leads to making this world a better place to live. "

7. TEACHING EXCELLENCE &

ACHIEVEMENT (TEA)
PROGRAM
NATURE OF AWARD
The Fulbright TEA Program offers professional
development opportunities for secondary-level
teachers of English, English as a Foreign Language,
math, science, foreign languages, and social studies,
as well as special education in the United States.
The program includes academic seminars,
observation, and sharing of their expertise with
teachers and students at the host university and at
local secondary schools.

ELIGIBILITY
Malaysian citizen
5 years of teaching experience (minimum)
A Bachelor's degree holder with honors
Secondary-level teacher with middle and/or high
school students
Meet Fulbright language requirements

AWARD BENEFIT
Roundtrip airfare
Monthly stipend
Health insurance coverage
Accommodation

AWARD DURATION
6 weeks (January or September intake)

ANNOUNCEMENT OF APPLICATION
Open - January
Close - March

* Exact date varies from year to year. Please refer to MACEE website
for exact announcement date.
TEACHING EXCELLENCE &
ACHIEVEMENT (TEA)
NURUL FAZNUR MOHAMAD HUSAINI
FY2020-2021 | CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY

"Through this program, Fulbright had taken me to a

foreign country - which is a dream for a lot of
people. I discovered and lived in a completely
different world for six weeks and Fulbright made
sure that during that period I was comfortable,
safe, and well-adjusted to the new environment.

My cohort consisted of 15 teachers from around

the globe was a huge benefit for me as a teacher
and as a person. It is miraculous how we started as
strangers but now we become friends that share
the same sentiment from the program and
inspiration for our future teaching goals.

I see education in a new perspective now as we were taught how much impact we
could give to our students and at the same time help to prepare these leaders for the
next generations in the right path. During the program, there was a lot of emphasis on
being a global citizen. We attended two classes related to it during the academic
session. We were also given the chance to participate in a special project at CSU Chico
called the "International Forum." Every week people who contributed or worked in
education through international projects would give presentations and it was a special
project for us to present as well because we gathered all the data from our different
home countries to talk about the challenges and potential solutions of teaching during a
pandemic in an effort to create a useful resource for teachers from around the world to
use as reference.

The Fulbright program allows us to be involved in the big community of educational

exchange connecting us with alumni from around the globe. My colleagues, the
international teachers, have started planning collaborations for leveraging our network
in future projects as well as encouraging our teachers and students in our home
countries to apply to the Fulbright and actively engage in global citizenship."
8. FOREIGN LANGUAGE TEACHING

(FLTA) PROGRAM

NATURE OF AWARD
A non-degree program for early career English
teachers or professionals to teach the Malay
language in an American college or university.
Grantees will have the opportunity to:
Refine teaching skills;
Increase their English language proficiency;
Share their knowledge of Malaysian culture
Interact with their fellow participants from
around the world as well as American host
communities in curricular and extracurricular
activities, and community outreach projects

ELIGIBILITY
Malaysian citizen
Teachers with under seven (7) years of experience
A Bachelor's degree holder with honors
Meeting Fulbright language requirements

AWARD BENEFIT
Roundtrip airfare
Monthly stipend
Health insurance coverage.

AWARD DURATION
9 months

ANNOUNCEMENT OF APPLICATION
Open - March
Close - June

* Exact date varies from year to year. Please refer to MACEE website
for exact announcement date.
FOREIGN LANGUAGE TEACHING
(FLTA) PROGRAM
KAUSSALYA VERASINGAM
FY2018/2019 | OHIO UNIVERSITY

"After a fruitful academic and cultural experience in the U.S., I came back to Malaysia as
a transformed person with a new mindset and newly gained resources for language
teaching. As I was already teaching English Language and Literature courses, I gave
my students firsthand accounts of my experience and all of the benefits of the program.
I've also conducted trainings for my English Department colleagues, sharing the
knowledge I gained during my FLTA experience. I am also actively involved with the
Fulbright Alumni Association Malaysia (FAAM), as a committee member, coordinating
and helping them to carry out talks, events, and projects aimed and growing the
Fulbright family in Malaysia.

The program also was the catalyst for my next adventure, pursuing a Ph.D. in Education.
I am humbled that my Fulbright experience has opened the door for me to the world
and beyond. I have fostered a global mindset, which I believe is vital for an educator. I
not only continue to keep in touch with professors and educators around the world, but
I have also developed incredible lifelong friendships and connections. Fulbright has
uplifted my confidence and given me a chance to prove what I can do personally and
professionally. Because of the program, my dreams have grown exponentially."
 9. G L O B A L U N D E R G R A D U A T E
EXCHANGE PROGRAM
(GLOBAL UGRAD)

NATURE OF AWARD
This non-degree, non-credited program is geared
towards outstanding Malaysian undergraduate
students interested in pursuing a semester abroad
at a U.S. university.
The program promotes binational understanding by
providing scholarships to grantees from around the
world.
Grantees will engage in community service and
cultural enrichment activities while serving as
cultural ambassador for Malaysia.

ELIGIBILITY
Malaysian citizen
Currently enrolled in a full-time undergraduate
program
Completed the first year of study, AND have at least
one semester remaining upon completion of the
UGRAD Program
Meeting TOEFL score requirement

AWARD BENEFIT
Roundtrip airfare
Monthly stipend
Room and board
Health insurance

AWARD DURATION
5 months
ANNOUNCEMENT OF APPLICATION
Open - October to November
Close - December
* Exact date varies from year to year. Please refer to MACEE website
for exact announcement date.
GLOBAL UNDERGRADUATE
EXCHANGE (GLOBAL UGRAD)
ZHEN YEE KHOR
FY2016/2017 | CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY MONTEREY BAY

"My journey to the program started out pretty bumpy, but it ended up extremely
rewarding. I still remember how I learned about the program while randomly scrolling
through Facebook. The details immediately caught my attention and I was
contemplating whether to apply for it or not because the application cycle would close
in just 3 days! But, something inside me clicked. As I drafted my essays, the words
poured out so naturally, it was like the program was made just for me.! One of the most
memorable moments in my UGRAD journey was my speech during the opening dinner
of the "End of Program Workshop." It was such an honor to be chosen to represent my
family, school, and Malaysia at the global gathering and I took the assignment seriously
as I prepared for almost an entire month! In spite of all the preparation, my nerves were
still very much present, but thanks to the supportive and caring UGRAD family I was
able to deliver the speech and represent it well.

My UGRAD experience has changed my life. It has shaped my worldview and inspired
me to become a more sensitive artist. The artist's path is a tough one, but I will be
forever grateful to UGRAD because it provided me an opportunity to see the world and
through that experience, I know I can endure any hardship in the future simply
because I know the roles I am playing in this world. Because of Global UGRAD, I am a
struggling artist on a mission."
 FULBRIGHT PROGRAMS FOR
AMERICANS

1. U.S. STUDENT RESEARCHER

2. U.S. SCHOLAR

3. U.S.-ASEAN INITIATIVE

U.S. STUDENT RESEARCHER

EMMA CUSHING
FY2022 | UNIVERSITI MALAYSIA SABAH

"Two years after the first thoughts of a Fulbright grant

in Malaysia, the first video chats with my host
professor, and the first drafts of my project proposal, I
finally landed in Sabah, Malaysia. I was absolutely
ecstatic to start my experience and determined to
make it just as meaningful as it would have been given
a full ten-month grant period. My first week in Kota
Kinabalu was full of exploration. Walking around the
city streets I was in awe of the incredible smells
wafting out of the restaurants, the number of people
who smiled and said hello to me, and the breathtaking
views of Gaya Island across the water.

I thoroughly enjoyed the process of developing relationships with these individuals and
so many more that taught me more than I could have ever thought to ask. Through
discussions of history, current events, holiday celebrations, and daily life, my
conversations compared and contrasted U.S. and Malaysian experiences and traditions,
and it was exciting to see the overlap and the uniqueness in each. As I head back to the
U.S., I feel that the Fulbright experience has brought me more confidence in my abilities
as a scientist, communicator, traveler, and as a global citizen.

All of these heightened abilities will help me during the pursuit of my next degree,
throughout my career, and throughout the rest of my life. The Malaysian perspective on
community-driven conservation, the remarkable kindness and generosity of the
Malaysian people, and the scientific wisdom imparted to me by my hosts will stick with
me and influence the way I see the world and the choices I make moving forward. I
will cherish the memories I made developing a deeper understanding of Bornean
elephants, of Malaysian pop culture, of conservation strategies, of night street food
markets, and of the streets and residents of KK. I am hopeful my path will someday
lead me back to Malaysia, preferably sooner rather than later."

U.S. SCHOLAR
KAISHAN KONG
FY2020/2021 | TAYLOR'S UNIVERSITY

"Malaysia is famous for its multilingualism and multiculturalism. This unique setting is
perfect for my research and teaching on intercultural competence. Before coming to
Malaysia, I was already excited and mindful to discover diverse languages and cultures
in this nation. During my time in Malaysia, I observed a combination of cultures and my
experience reminds me of the importance of inclusion and diversity. Cultures are not
only overarching architectures and literature but also everyday practices between
people. I think everyday culture is what makes cultural exploration most exciting.

The three months journey as a U.S. Fulbright Scholar in Malaysia has been an incredible,
memorable, and transformative experience for me. Being a reflective and adventurous
visitor to Malaysia, I have gained more empathy, compassion, hope, and responsibility
to build bridges between cultures. I would not have had such a memorable and
productive experience if it were not for the support from the MACEE team. "
GRANT BENEFITS
1. Monthly stipend.

2. One-off Settling-in and Professional Development allowances for:

Fulbright Scholar,
Professional Exchange,
Scholar-in-Residence; and
U.S.-ASEAN Initiatives Program

3. Health benefits - Accident & sickness program for exchanges (ASPE) .

4. Visa application will be arranged and assisted by MACEE.

5. Accommodation is covered.

GRANT TERMS & CONDITIONS

1. Grants may not be postponed to a subsequent academic year; the
applicant will have to reapply the following year.

2. Grantees must report all other fellowships, grants and salaries in

addition to sabbatical and other support from home institution to
MACEE.

3. Grantees must report any changes that occur before or during the grant
to MACEE.

4. Grant calculations are based on projected time in the U.S during the
Fulbright Program.

5. Dependent (spouse and children below 21 years old) benefits are

available for selected programs. Please refer program brief.

ENGLISH LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS

FLTA Program : Minimum 79-80 score iBT
Hubert Humphrey Fellowship: Minimum 71 score iBT
UGRAD: Minimum 48 score iBT
*TOEFL Internet-based Test (iBT) Highest Score: 120/120 points
HOW TO APPLY
1. IDENTIFY PROGRAM TO APPLY
Research for suitable program via MACEE website.

2. ENGLISH LANGUAGE REQUIREMENT

English test (TOEFL/GRE/GMAT) must meet the
requirement set by the host university.

3. PREPARE NECESSARY DOCUMENTATION

Prepare certified academic transcripts, degree certificates, and
personal documents prior to starting the application process.

PREPARE TWO (2) ESSAYS

4. 1) A study/research objective essay to describe a clear
and detailed description of the program you want to
pursue. Clearly identify the area(s) within your field of
study in which you want to specialize.
2) A personal statement essay articulating your
education, practical experience, special interests, career
plans, and your purpose in applying for study in the U.S.
Refer to program details for requirements.

5. PREPARE THREE (3) LETTERS OF RECOMMENDATION

Three (3) letters of reference (or recommendation). All
letters of reference should be written in English by
teachers under whom you have studied or pursued
research or by someone who has supervised you in work
related to your proposed field of study. The letter should
consist of at least one academic and one professional or
work-related letter.

6. PREPARE ACADEMIC RESUME

Your academic resume should detail your most relevant
academic achievements, awards, honors, volunteer and work
experience, leadership experience, research experience, and
teaching experience for the relevant Fulbright Program.

7. LOG IN TO APPLICATION WEBSITE

Access the application page via MACEE website. Follow
application instructions which can be found on each page
of the online application before proceeding.

8. SUBMIT ONLINE APPLICATION

You will receive email confirmation upon completed and
successful submission.
FAQ

1. WHAT IS THE FULBRIGHT PROGRAM?

The Fulbright Program was created to be the flagship international educational
exchange program co-sponsored by the U.S. government and partner countries. It is
designed to increase mutual understanding between the people of the United States
and partner countries.

The Fulbright Program provides participants with opportunities to study, teach,

conduct research, exchange ideas, and contribute to finding solutions for shared
international concerns. Grants are available for U.S. citizens to go abroad and for non-
U.S. citizens with no U.S. permanent residence to come to the U.S.

In Malaysia, Fulbright Program is managed by Malaysian-American Commission on

Educational Exchange (MACEE) since 1964.

2. WHEN WAS THE FULBRIGHT PROGRAM CREATED?

The Fulbright Program was established by the U.S. Congress in 1946.

3. WHO FUNDS THE FULBRIGHT PROGRAM?

Globally, the primary source of the funding is from the U.S. Congress to the U.S.
Department of State in Washington D.C.

For MACEE, direct and indirect support and/or funding may come from the Malaysian
government, host institutions, private corporations, and foundations

4. WHO MANAGES FULBRIGHT PROGRAM IN US AND MALAYSIA?

For the U.S., the Department of State's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs
(ECA) administers the Fulbright Program under policy guidelines established by the
Fulbright Foreign Scholarship Board (FFSB).

There are a total of 49 binational Fulbright Commissions administering the Fulbright

Program in 160 countries and via the U.S. embassies where a commission is not
established.

In Malaysia, the program has been facilitated and administered by Malaysian-

American Commission on Educational Exchange (MACEE) since 1963.

FAQ - CONTINUE

5. WHAT IS THE FULBRIGHT PROGRAM FRAME OF AWARD?

The Fulbright Program participants are selected based on their academic merit and
leadership potential. It provides the grantees with the opportunity to study, teach and
conduct research, exchange ideas, and contribute to finding solutions to shared
international concerns. For this purpose, grants are available for U.S. citizens to go
abroad and for non-U.S. citizens with no U.S. permanent residence to come to the U.S.

6. HOW MANY FULBRIGHT PROGRAM GRANTS HAVE BEEN AWARDED?

The Fulbright Program awards approximately 8,000 grants annually. More than 2,000
U.S. students, 4,000 foreign students, over 800 U.S. scholars, and 900 visiting scholars
receive awards, in addition to several hundred teachers and professionals. More than
Almost 400,000 "Fulbrighters" from over 160 countries have participated in the
program since its inception in 1946.

In Malaysia, MACEE has sent over 1,000 Malaysians to the U.S. and 2,000 Americans
to Malaysia since its inception in 1963.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE A TYPICAL "FULBRIGHTER"?

7. Fulbrighters come from a wide range of socioeconomic, ethnic, racial, and religious
backgrounds. All Fulbrighters share a strong academic background, leadership
potential, a passion for increasing mutual understanding among nations and cultures,
and the adaptability and flexibility to pursue their Fulbright project successfully.

8. HOW DO I APPLY FOR A FULBRIGHT PROGRAM?

The Fulbright Program's application process is lengthy and rigorous, and prospective
applicants are encouraged to carefully plan their intentions, goals, future plans, and
prospective projects before applying for a Fulbright grant The competition for
Fulbright Program grants is merit-based. Candidates are selected based on a variety
of factors, that may include (but are not limited to) academic qualifications, project
feasibility, personal leadership ability, and available grant funds.

Fulbright operates on a yearly application cycle, which generally opens approximately

15 months before the start of the grant with a deadline approximately 11 or 12 months
before the grant's start date. Please visit our website to learn about Fulbright Program
details, application opening or email MACEE at fulbrightmalaysia@macee.org.my for
further enquiry.
MALAYSIAN-AMERICAN COMMISSION ON EDUCATIONAL EXCHANGE (MACEE)
18th Floor, Menara Yayasan Tun Razak, 200, Jalan Bukit Bintang, 55100, Kuala Lumpur
MACEE Fulbright
MACEE Fulbright
MACEE Fulbright
MACEE Fulbright
www.macee.org.my

CONTACT US

NOTE

1.

2.

3.

4.
 “The essence of intercultural education is the
acquisition of empathy—the ability to see the world as
others see it, and to allow for the possibility that
others may see something we have failed to see, or may
see it more accurately".

Senator J.W. Fulbright

18th Floor, Menara Yayasan Tun Razak, 200, Jalan Bukit Bintang, 55100, Kuala Lumpur
Tel: 603-2166 8878 Fax: 603-2166 1878
Website: www.macee.org.my | Email: media@macee.org.my