Curtin Malaysia expands global footprint with strategic China partnerships

Miri, Sarawak – 22 June 2026 – Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia) has strengthened its international presence through the signing of a landmark partnership with Shenyang Jianzhu University and the expansion of academic ties in northeast China, creating new opportunities for student mobility, collaborative research, and innovation.

The achievements were secured during a high-level visit to China’s Liaoning Province led by Curtin Malaysia Pro Vice-Chancellor, President and Chief Executive, Professor Vincent Lee Chieng Chen, accompanied by Associate Professor Dr Fidella Tiew Nga Huong, Dean of Curtin Malaysia’s School of Pre-U and Continuing Education.

The visit began with Curtin Malaysia’s participation in the Liaoning International Friendship Cities Conference, where Professor Lee addressed university leaders from around the world at the International University Presidents Forum, highlighting Curtin Malaysia’s commitment to building globally connected education and research networks.

A major outcome of the visit was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Shenyang Jianzhu University on 10 June, marking the beginning of a comprehensive partnership designed to accelerate international education and research collaboration.

The agreement was signed by Professor Lee on behalf of Curtin Malaysia and Professor Baishu Xia, Vice President of Shenyang Jianzhu University.

Under the partnership, both institutions will collaborate on joint academic programmes, student and staff exchanges, research initiatives, and the establishment of joint laboratories. The agreement also provides pathways for academic visits, study tours, and the sharing of scholarly publications and resources.

In addition, the universities will co-organise conferences, seminars, and academic forums while pursuing research in areas of mutual interest, supporting the commercialisation of scientific discoveries and technological innovations, and fostering the co-development of academic disciplines.

Further strengthening Curtin Malaysia’s engagement with China’s higher education sector, the delegation also visited Liaoning University of Technology, building on an MoU signed between the two institutions in November 2025.

Professor Lee described the visit as a significant step forward in Curtin Malaysia’s internationalisation strategy.

“These partnerships represent more than formal agreements; they are platforms for transformative education, impactful research, and meaningful cultural exchange,” he said. “Our engagements in Liaoning have opened new avenues for collaboration that will benefit our students, academics, and researchers while strengthening Curtin Malaysia’s contribution to addressing global challenges through knowledge and innovation.”

He added that the partnerships would enhance students’ international learning experiences, create new research opportunities, and strengthen links between Malaysia and China through academic cooperation.

The latest agreements reinforce Curtin Malaysia’s commitment to providing a globally connected education and developing international partnerships that drive innovation, talent development, and sustainable solutions for the future.

For more information on Curtin Malaysia, visit curtin.edu.my or follow Curtin Malaysia on Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn or TikTok.

Curtin Malaysia and Shenyang Jianzhu University representatives at the MoU signing ceremony.

Professor Vincent Lee (left) and Professor Zhou Hui exchange the signed MoU documents.