UL Communication Professor Shares Insights From Fulbright Journey in Malaysia

*By Lauren Auverset van Gerwen and Nuzhat Tabassum

September 19, 2024

LAFAYETTE, La. — Dr. William Davie, a professor of communication at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, recently returned from his second Fulbright Scholarship experience, this time in Malaysia. The journey, which followed a previous Fulbright stint in China in 2015, provided him with unique insights into Southeast Asian culture and the academic landscape.

Reflecting on his time abroad, Davie noted the profound differences between his Malaysian experience and his prior work in China, emphasizing the rich cultural exchange and the impact it has had on his teaching and research.

"It was eye-opening, rewarding, memorable, and satisfying," Davie summarized, echoing sentiments that have shaped his Fulbright journey.

Dr. Yuling Huang-Davie and Dr. William R. Davie

A Fulbright Family Affair
Davie’s Fulbright experience in Malaysia was made even more special by the fact that his wife, Dr. Yuling Huang-Davie, a professor of music specializing in collaborative piano, joined him as a first-time Fulbright Scholar at the nearby Institute of Music at UCSI University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The couple’s unique journey marked a rare achievement, as it is uncommon for married couples to both secure Fulbright scholarships. Having both Dr. Davie and Dr. Huang-Davie selected as Fulbright Scholars is a significant honor and a tremendous win for UL Lafayette, highlighting the university’s commitment to advancing global research and demonstrating excellence in the areas of communication and music.
"It was a fulfilling experience for both of us," Davie noted. "My wife’s presence added a personal dimension to our time there, and I’m grateful we could share this enriching experience together."
Though they were in different academic fields—communication and music—the opportunity allowed them both to immerse themselves in Malaysian culture and academia, deepening their professional and personal connections abroad.

The academic landscape in Malaysia placed a heavier emphasis on research

A Cultural Exchange Like No Other
Unlike his previous experience in China, where teaching was a primary focus, Davie found that the academic landscape in Malaysia placed a heavier emphasis on research. "They are focused on research and scholarship rather than communication skills instruction," Davie explained, reflecting on his time at the National University of Malaysia. While he was initially expecting to teach media ethics and share First Amendment values, he found that cultural sensitivity played a significant role in shaping his curriculum. In Malaysia, there is a preference to avoid controversy, especially when it comes to the more divisive aspects of American media law.
However, this focus on research proved beneficial for Davie, who worked closely with local scholars and research assistants. Together, they co-authored a journal article on media ethics, which has already been published. Another article on media assistance projects is forthcoming, reflecting the fruitful academic collaboration that the Fulbright Program fosters.
"The hospitality and kindness of the Malaysians were overwhelming," he said, recalling how welcomed he felt during his stay.

Immersed in Local Traditions

One of the highlights of Davie’s time in Malaysia was the chance to immerse himself in the country’s vibrant cultural traditions. From attending an Islamic wedding to visiting an elephant sanctuary, Davie embraced the opportunities to experience Malaysia beyond the confines of academia. Davie was particularly struck by the strong emphasis on family bonds in Malaysian culture, which he believes holds important lessons for American society. "One of the cultural elements we desperately need to adopt is the obligation to family," he noted. This focus on familial responsibility, he argues, could help address some of the mental health challenges facing the United States today.

Davie has worked to integrate Malaysia lessons into teaching at UL-Lafayette

Bringing Global Perspectives to the Classroom
Since his return, Davie has worked to integrate the lessons he learned in Malaysia into his teaching at UL Lafayette, particularly in his media law and ethics courses. He has already begun sharing his Malaysian research, including a journal article on the country’s new code of conduct for the news media, with his students. The experience has deepened his global perspective on media ethics, communication, and law, providing students with a broader understanding of how these principles are interpreted in different cultural contexts.
“Every class somehow circles back to my experience in Malaysia,” Davie shared, underscoring the lasting influence of his time abroad on his teaching methodology.

A Broader Call for Global Understanding
As an academic ambassador for the Fulbright Program, Davie believes that such global exchanges are crucial for fostering international understanding. He emphasizes that American students and academics alike need to broaden their interests beyond national borders. "All Americans need to expand their interest in current events and cultures so that it is not solely American-oriented," he said.
Although collaborative opportunities in Malaysia were somewhat limited due to what he described as “provincialism,” Davie still views the Fulbright Program as an invaluable opportunity for cultural exchange and academic growth. He encourages other faculty members to apply for such fellowships, highlighting the minimal cost to host countries and the vast rewards for both scholars and students.
A Grateful Return
Davie credits much of his success in securing the Fulbright scholarship to the support of his colleagues, particularly Rose Honegger and her husband, Mark, who helped him establish connections in Malaysia. Their assistance, along with the support of UL Lafayette, played a crucial role in his successful application and enriching experience abroad.
Looking ahead, Davie remains committed to using his global experiences to enrich the university’s communication department and inspire a new generation of students to embrace a more global outlook. His time in Malaysia may have ended, but its impact continues to resonate in his work and in the classrooms of UL Lafayette.
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For more information on the Fulbright Program and how to apply, please visit [Fulbright's website](https://fulbrightprogram.org).