Curtin Malaysia and BLD forge strategic partnership to drive sustainable innovation in Sarawak

Miri, Sarawak – 22 April 2026 – In a strategic move to bridge academia and industry while advancing sustainable development in Sarawak, Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia) has formalised a partnership with Bintulu Lumber Development Sdn Bhd (BLD) through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).

The collaboration brings together Curtin Malaysia’s academic and research expertise with BLD’s extensive experience in the plantation and palm oil sector, creating new pathways for innovation, talent development, and industry-driven solutions.

The MoU was signed by Curtin Malaysia’s Pro Vice-Chancellor, President and Chief Executive, Professor Vincent Lee Chieng Chen, and BLD Director Tuan Haji Wan Abdillah bin Wan Hamid, who also represents BLD’s parent company, BLD Plantation Bhd.

Speaking at the ceremony, Professor Lee described the partnership as a timely and strategic alignment between higher education and industry needs.

“Today’s signing marks more than a formal agreement; it reflects a shared commitment to shaping a future-ready workforce and advancing sustainable practices. By combining Curtin’s strengths in education and research with BLD’s operational expertise, we are creating opportunities that are both impactful and relevant to Sarawak’s development,” he said.

He noted that the partnership will open doors for student internships, industry placements, graduate recruitment, and scholarship opportunities, while also supporting continuous professional development through training programmes, workshops, and seminars.

Importantly, the collaboration will also focus on applied research and innovation, particularly in plantation management, environmental sustainability, and resource optimisation – areas that are increasingly critical to the region’s economic and ecological future.

Professor Lee added, “This partnership is about more than capability-building. It is about working together to develop practical, sustainable solutions and contributing meaningfully to the communities we serve.”

Representing BLD, Director Adeline Lau expressed strong confidence that the collaboration would enhance industry practices while strengthening ties with academia.

“This partnership reflects our belief that meaningful progress happens when industry and academia work hand in hand. By collaborating with Curtin Malaysia, we aim to elevate our practices and contribute to sustainable agricultural innovation in Sarawak,” she said.

She emphasised that the initiative is also an investment in local talent.

“We want Curtin Malaysia students to see BLD not just as an employer, but as a place where they can grow, innovate, and build long-term careers right here in Sarawak. This partnership allows us to nurture future industry leaders while strengthening our workforce,” Lau added.

Beyond academic and industry engagement, both organisations are committed to joint corporate social responsibility initiatives aimed at improving community well-being and promoting environmental stewardship.

The partnership is expected to play a key role in supporting Sarawak’s transition towards a more sustainable, knowledge-driven economy, while addressing real-world environmental and industrial challenges.

Also present at the signing ceremony were senior representatives from Curtin Malaysia and BLD, reflecting the strong institutional commitment on both sides to ensure the success of this collaboration.

For more information on Curtin Malaysia, visit curtin.edu.my or follow Curtin Malaysia on Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn or TikTok.

Curtin Malaysia and BLD forge strategic partnership to drive sustainable innovation in Sarawak.

Curtin Malaysia and BLD representatives pose for a group photo after the signing ceremony.

Professor Vincent Lee (3rd right) engages in discussion with BLD representatives as Curtin delegates look on.