Curtin Malaysia and University of Santo Tomas forge strategic partnership for innovation and global connectivity

Miri, Sarawak – 10 September 2025 –Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia) has entered into a significant partnership with the University of Santo Tomas (UST) in the Philippines, Asia’s oldest existing university and one of its most prestigious institutions, through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at Curtin Malaysia’s Miri campus.

The agreement sets the stage for collaborative teaching, research, and cultural exchange, linking Sarawak’s global university with an institution that has produced generations of leaders, professionals, and innovators in the region.

The UST delegation was led by Assistant Professor Christopher D. Ladao, Dean of Information Systems at the College of Information and Computer Sciences (CICS), accompanied by senior academic and administrative representatives including Reverend Father Gaspar Sigaya, Regent of CICS, and other department chairs and internationalisation coordinators.

Representing Curtin Malaysia were Professor Vincent Lee, Pro Vice-Chancellor, President and Chief Executive; Professor Tuong-Thuy Vu, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Science; and other senior faculty leaders. The MoU was signed by Professor Lee on behalf of Curtin Malaysia, following its earlier endorsement by Rev. Father Richard G. Ang, O.P., Rector of UST.

In his remarks, Professor Lee underscored UST’s historic role as a “beacon of academic excellence” and highlighted the synergy between both institutions. “The University of Santo Tomas’ commitment to student-centred education, research advancement, and holistic graduate development aligns closely with Curtin’s values. This partnership will provide a powerful platform for knowledge-sharing, academic innovation, and global citizenship,” he said.

He added that the collaboration would be outcome-driven, aimed at equipping students and researchers to address contemporary global challenges. “Through faculty and student exchanges, joint research, and cultural engagement, we are building stronger regional and international connectivity between Malaysia and the Philippines,” he noted.

Assistant Professor Ladao reaffirmed UST’s dedication to innovation and student-focused learning technologies. “This MoU is just the beginning of a promising journey. By exchanging knowledge and expertise, we will drive mutual growth and expand collaboration into specific disciplines that will benefit both our institutions and the wider global academic community,” he said.

The signing ceremony, attended by academics and other staff from Curtin Malaysia, symbolised not only a formal agreement but also the creation of a cross-border bridge in higher education—uniting two institutions with shared visions of excellence, inclusivity, and innovation.

This partnership also strengthens Curtin Malaysia’s regional and global engagement strategy, which focuses on building strong collaborations with leading universities across Asia and beyond. By expanding its network of academic partners, Curtin Malaysia continues to enhance opportunities for its students, staff, and research communities to operate on a global stage while contributing solutions to pressing local and international challenges.

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

Professor Lee (2nd right) shakes hands with Assistant Professor Ladao, with Professor Vu (left) and Reverend Father Sigaya looking on.

Professor Lee (front row, 6th right) poses with staff of Faculty of Engineering and Science alongside Assistant Professor Ladao (front row, 5th left) and UST delegation.