Curtin Malaysia, DriverAI explore AI research and talent development partnership

Miri, Sarawak – 3 September 2026 – Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia) is exploring new opportunities for collaboration in artificial intelligence (AI), high-speed computing and technology talent development following a high-level visit by US-based software company DriverAI.

The visit brought together DriverAI’s Founder and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Cary Tantlinger, President and Chief Operating Officer Aidan Mulligan, and Asia Pacific President Danny Chang, alongside representatives from Biz Connects, including Winnie Kho Kaplan, Honorary Consul of Malaysia in Arizona, USA, and Chief Business Development Officer Mary Wan Mering.

The delegation was welcomed by Sarawak Minister for Transport and Chair of the Curtin Malaysia Management Committee Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin, who underscored the importance of connecting global technology companies with local universities to accelerate Sarawak’s technological development and strengthen its talent pipeline.

Representing Curtin Malaysia were Pro Vice-Chancellor, President and Chief Executive Professor Vincent Lee Chieng Chen; Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Science Professor Raymond Chiong Choo Wee; and key academic staff.

During the engagement, Tantlinger shared DriverAI’s vision for advancing intelligent infrastructure through high-speed computing, AI-enabled situational awareness, sovereign digital ecosystems and other next-generation technologies.

A key outcome of the discussions was the identification of potential areas for joint research in AI and high-speed computing, with both parties exploring opportunities to leverage their respective expertise to develop solutions with regional and global applications.

Driver AI also shared plans to offer scholarships for students pursuing degrees in AI, technology and design, potentially giving emerging innovators access to advanced technologies, industry mentorship and practical pathways into technology careers.

Professor Lee said the engagement reflected Curtin Malaysia’s commitment to building meaningful partnerships that connect academic expertise with industry needs.

“Collaborations such as this create valuable opportunities for our students and researchers to engage with emerging technologies, while enabling industry partners to tap into the talent and expertise within our university,” he said.

Cary Tantlinger, Founder and CEO of DriverAI, stated that the company is eager to explore strategic partnerships with Curtin University Malaysia.

“We are looking for strategic partnership with Curtin University in areas of Quantum and AI Centre of Excellence. This will add value towards future workforce in Sarawak,” he remarked.

The visit further strengthens Curtin Malaysia’s role as a regional hub for industry-academic collaboration and supports its efforts to equip graduates with the skills needed to contribute to the rapidly evolving digital economy.

It also aligns with Sarawak’s broader ambitions to strengthen its capabilities in AI, digital technology and high-value industries through stronger links between academia, industry and the wider technology ecosystem.

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Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin presents a souvenir to Cary Tantlinger.

Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin, Prof Vincent Lee, Cary Tantlinger and Prof Raymond Chiong with academic staff and delegation members.