Curtin Malaysia and Sterling Technical Services forge strategic partnership to drive offshore engineering innovation

Miri, Sarawak – 12 August 2025 – Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia) has taken a significant step in advancing industry-focused education and research with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Sterling Technical Services Sdn. Bhd., a leading player in offshore and marine engineering, surveying, and risk management.

The collaboration will combine Sterling Technical Services’ decades of hands-on expertise in oil and gas and renewable energy with Curtin Malaysia’s strong academic and research capabilities, creating new opportunities for talent development, knowledge exchange, and cutting-edge engineering solutions.

The MoU was signed by Professor Vincent Lee Chieng Chen, Pro Vice-Chancellor, President, and Chief Executive of Curtin Malaysia, and Paulus Handidjaja, General Manager of Sterling Technical Services.

Also present were key Curtin Malaysia academics, including Associate Professor Ir. Dr. Lim Chye Ing, Associate Dean for External Engagement of the Faculty of Engineering and Science; Professor John Lau Sie Yon, Associate Dean for Research and Development; Professor Ir. Dr. Stephanie Chan Yen San, Head of the Department of Chemical and Energy Engineering; and Associate Professor Ir. Dr. Wong Kwong Soon, Head of the Department of Civil and Construction Engineering.

Sterling Technical Services’ delegation included Director Prescilla Anak Raymond and guest representative Dr. Manoj Mukundan, Senior Geotechnical Consultant from Somehsa Geosciences Pte. Ltd., Singapore.

Professor Lee described the partnership as a strategic industry-academia alliance that will enhance engineering education, bolster research in geotechnical and offshore engineering, and better prepare students for the fast-evolving job market.

“Sterling’s expertise and innovative geotechnical solutions make them an invaluable partner. Together, we can create impactful research and produce graduates with both academic excellence and industry-ready skills,” he said.

Handidjaja echoed this vision, noting the rapid global growth of the offshore geotechnics industry and the rising demand for skilled professionals.

“Through this collaboration, we aim to equip Curtin graduates with the specialised knowledge and practical exposure to thrive in a competitive, high-tech industry,” he said.

The partnership will explore joint research projects, student internships, technical training, and the sharing of industry best practices, with the goal of strengthening Sarawak’s position as a hub for engineering expertise in the region.

For more information on Curtin Malaysia, visit curtin.edu.my or look for Curtin Malaysia on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn, or TikTok.

Paulus (left) shares his views with Professor Lee during the MoU signing ceremony.

Professor Lee (front row, 3rd left) and Paulus display the signed MoU, joined by Curtin Malaysia’s academics and Sterling Technical Services’ delegation.