Curtin Malaysia and MET Malaysia renew strategic partnership to advance meteorological research and development

Miri, Sarawak – 14 August 2025 – Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia) and the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MET Malaysia) have renewed their commitment to advancing climate science, hazard forecasting, and resilience-building with the signing of a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).

The agreement was formalised by Professor Vincent Lee Chieng Chen, Pro Vice-Chancellor, President and Chief Executive of Curtin Malaysia, and Dr. Mohd Hisham Mohd Anip, Director General of MET Malaysia, in a ceremony attended by senior representatives from both organisations.

Also attending the ceremony were Sharon Chong, Curtin Malaysia’s Chief Operating Officer; Associate Professor Ir. Lim Chye Ing, Associate Dean of External Engagement; Associate Professor Ir. Wong Kwong Soon, Head of the Department of Civil and Construction Engineering; John Curtin Distinguished Professor Nagarajan Ramasamy, Dean of Research and Development and Director of the Curtin Malaysia Research Institute; and Professor MV Prasanna, Head of the Department of Applied Sciences.

Also representing MET Malaysia were Zaridah Mohd. Jalal from the Strategic Planning and International Division; Khairul Najib Ibrahim, Director of the Sarawak Meteorological Office; and Fredie Anak Anit, Station Chief of the Miri Meteorological Office.

This renewed partnership builds on a productive collaboration that began in 2022, which saw the installation of an automatic weather station on Curtin Malaysia’s campus, the sharing of critical meteorological data with researchers, and the joint organisation of a public awareness talk on meteorological science and climate change.

Professor Lee said these initiatives had laid a solid foundation for an exemplary academia-agency partnership.

“This renewed MoU strengthens our shared commitment to advancing meteorological research with real-world applications. Together, we can deepen scientific understanding, train future experts, and develop solutions for a more sustainable, climate-resilient Malaysia,” he stated.

Dr. Mohd Hisham underscored the strategic importance of the collaboration, noting its potential to impact communities both in Malaysia and the broader region.

“Our work together will enhance climate research, improve hazard forecasting and early warning systems, and strengthen resilience across Malaysia and ASEAN. This is not just a formal agreement – it is a partnership with tangible outcomes for society and sustainable development,” he said.

The renewed MoU will pave the way for joint research projects, student training opportunities, technology sharing, and community outreach programmes, ensuring that both organisations continue to drive innovation in climate science and environmental stewardship.

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Professor Lee (5th left) shakes hands with Dr. Mohd Hisham, symbolising the renewed partnership, observed by Curtin Malaysia academics and MET Malaysia representatives.

Dr. Mohd Hisham (5th right) presents a souvenir to Professor Lee, witnessed by Curtin Malaysia’s senior staff and MET Malaysia’s delegation.