As Malaysia is a member of vibrant regional and global organizations such as the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF), ASEAN Plus Three  (APT),  East Asia Summit (EAS), Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC), Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM), Organization of Islamic Conference (OIC), Commonwealth, Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), World Trade Organization (WTO) and the United Nations (UN), it is important for UTAR, as a forward-looking and excellence-seeking institution of higher learning,  to acquaint its campus community and the wider Malaysian public with critical contemporary issues that significantly impact on the nation, the region and the world.

The pursuit of knowledge at the tertiary level can be meaningfully enhanced through the teaching of International Studies at the undergraduate and graduate levels; focused research and publication of current regional and global affairs; and the hosting of conferences and seminars. Public lectures by renowned personalities, policy practitioners, academics, and think-tank and media experts are also immensely helpful. Their informed insights can contribute to better understanding as well as serve as guide for constructive response to key regional and international problems and challenges confronting Malaysian society.