Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) and Pamekasan Regency in Madura agreed to establish cooperation in various fields. The MoU for development of Pamekasan Regency was signed by UGM Rector, Prof. Ir. Sudjarwadi, M. Eng., Ph.D., and Head of Educational Office of Pamekasan Regency Government, Muhammad Yusuf, representing the Regent.
The MoU signing at UGM Central Office on Wednesday (17/3) was witnessed by UGM Senior Vice Rector, Vice Rector, Assistant to Vice Rector, Executive Secretary, Director, Dean of Faculty of Cultural Sciences, and Board of Executives of Pamekasan Regency. "I hope this becomes a good starting point for building broader cooperation, particularly the development of Pamekasan Regency," said Muhammad Yusuf in his speech.
Muhammad Yusuf said that as part of Madura island, Pamekasan Regency is remote, but after the opening of Suramadu Bridge, which is the longest bridge in Indonesia, the condition rather changed. People's mobility increased and people from other areas who had previously no interest in visiting Madura are now getting interested because of the new bridge. "This is a long bridge that spans some 5.4 km. It attracts people to visit Madura. Now with the cooperation with UGM, Pamekasan can catch up with other regions in Indonesia," he expected.
Meanwhile, the Rector said that this cooperation showed the good intention for Madura community and also in accordance with UGM’s ideal to help all citizens. UGM always tries to develop culture, science, and creates happiness for Indonesian people.
"As stated in its vision and mission, UGM serves national interests and prosperity. Today, we're granted a gift by God through this cooperation that makes UGM more motivated to take initiative so that Pamekasan Regency and UGM can work together for prosperity and humanity," the Rector added.