Curtin Malaysia, Dayak Association Miri partner to advance indigenous learning and community engagement

Miri, Sarawak – 26 January 2026 – Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia) has formalised a strategic partnership with the Dayak Association Miri (DAM) through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening indigenous learning, cultural immersion, and community-based development initiatives.

The MoU was signed by Curtin Malaysia’s Pro Vice-Chancellor, President and Chief Executive, Professor Vincent Lee, and Penghulu Wilfred Mac, President of DAM.

The agreement establishes a collaborative framework spanning work-integrated learning, student and staff development, joint projects, community initiatives, and indigenous knowledge exchange.

Professor Lee said the partnership reflects shared values and mutual respect, combining Curtin Malaysia’s strengths as a globally connected, research-intensive university with DAM’s long-standing community leadership and cultural stewardship.

“As a Sarawak Government-owned university, we are deeply committed to social development, cultural preservation, and inclusive growth, particularly for indigenous and local communities,” he said, adding that the collaboration would create “inclusive, sustainable, and transformative opportunities.”

Penghulu Wilfred welcomed the collaboration, expressing appreciation that Curtin Malaysia had chosen DAM as a partner in advancing cultural engagement. He said the MoU opens doors for meaningful cooperation and long-term shared impact.

In her closing remarks, Professor Pauline Ho, Dean of the Faculty of Business at Curtin Malaysia, described the partnership as a commitment to mutual learning and inclusive development. She highlighted Curtin Malaysia’s efforts to enhance business literacy, skills development, and entrepreneurial capacity among indigenous communities.

Professor Ho also highlighted that the Faculty of Business offers Culture, Communication, and Indigenous Perspectives unit, which encourages students to engage respectfully with indigenous knowledge systems and apply these insights within global business contexts. She expressed hope that the partnership would enable students to engage directly with the Dayak community through visits and collaborative initiatives.

The signing ceremony was attended by DAM representatives Councillor Abin Galieh, Vice President Vivienne Nyut Nasat, and Jaqueline Selaka, alongside Curtin Malaysia academics and leaders from across faculties.

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Professor Lee (5th right) and Penghulu Wilfred (6th left) holding the signed MoU, witnessed by Professor Ho (5th left) and academic and community representatives.

Penghulu Wilfred (left) briefing Professor Lee on recent DAM initiatives.