Curtin Malaysia launches new geospatial intelligence programmes to support Malaysia’s development ambitions

Miri, Sarawak – 14 July 2025 – Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia) is proud to announce the launch of two cutting-edge postgraduate programmes – the Graduate Certificate in Geospatial Intelligence and the Graduate Diploma in Geospatial Intelligence – commencing in Semester 2, 2025 (July intake).

Delivered fully online through Open and Distance Learning (ODL), these new offerings aim to empower professionals and graduates with critical spatial data skills needed to meet the demands of Malaysia’s rapidly evolving development landscape.

Geospatial intelligence – the analysis and application of spatial data – is emerging as a vital tool in managing modern challenges such as urban expansion, climate change, biodiversity conservation, precision agriculture, and emergency response. For Malaysia and Sarawak, both of which are accelerating their digital economy and green development agendas, professionals equipped with geospatial expertise will play a pivotal role.

“Malaysia and Sarawak are entering a new era of digital transformation and sustainability,” said Professor Vincent Lee, Pro Vice-Chancellor, President and Chief Executive of Curtin Malaysia. “By offering these programmes, we are equipping our workforce with the geospatial skills to support data-driven decisions in agriculture, energy, infrastructure, and the environment. This is about preparing Malaysians for the jobs of tomorrow, and shaping leaders who can solve complex, location-based problems today.”

The Graduate Certificate in Geospatial Intelligence is ideal for professionals and graduates seeking a fast-track entry into geospatial analysis. The one-semester course introduces foundational skills in geographic information systems (GIS) and remote sensing, offering real-world applications in agriculture, mining, environmental management, defence, and more.

Those wishing to build deeper expertise can progress to the Graduate Diploma in Geospatial Intelligence, which includes additional units in data management, drone mapping, photogrammetry, spatial programming, and visualisation, complemented by case studies drawn from sectors such as urban planning, biodiversity conservation, and emergency services.

“Even with no prior background, students can step confidently into these programmes and emerge with industry-relevant skills,” said Professor M.V. Prasanna, Head of the Department of Applied Sciences and coordinator of the geospatial programmes. “We have designed the curriculum to be accessible yet comprehensive, with clear progression pathways from certificate to diploma and potentially to a Master’s qualification.”

Both programmes are structured for working adults and delivered fully online, making them highly accessible to professionals across Malaysia and the region. Entry requires a bachelor’s degree in any discipline, with a background in mathematics or statistics recommended.

The global GIS market is expanding rapidly, driven by demand from industries such as oil and gas, utilities, construction, agriculture, and public safety. Malaysia is positioned as a key growth hub in the Asia Pacific, alongside China, India, Australia, and Japan. This is reflected in job market trends, with online platforms consistently listing high demand for GIS Analysts, Geospatial Data Collectors, and GIS Developers.

“As a geospatial scientist, I have seen how location-based technologies are transforming the way we manage natural resources, design cities, and respond to climate challenges,” said Professor Tuong-Thuy Vu, Dean of Curtin Malaysia’s Faculty of Engineering and Science and a renowned expert in geospatial intelligence. “What makes these programmes special is their interdisciplinary approach. Students will not only learn the tools but also how to apply them to solve complex problems across a wide range of sectors.”

Curtin Malaysia is the first Curtin campus to introduce these programmes outside of Australia, further enhancing its reputation as a hub for high-impact, future-focused education in Southeast Asia. The programmes also support the national policy agenda for science, technology, and innovation, as well as Sarawak’s aspirations under its Post COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030.

“Geospatial intelligence has the potential to be a game-changer for Sarawak, especially in areas such as precision agriculture, renewable energy planning, and disaster preparedness,” Professor Lee added. “Through these programmes, Curtin Malaysia is not only advancing academic excellence but also helping to future-proof Malaysia’s economy.”

The Graduate Certificate and Graduate Diploma in Geospatial Intelligence are now open for enrolment for Semester 2, 2025. With a flexible, online format and industry-aligned curriculum, the programmes offer a timely and accessible opportunity for professionals and graduates across Malaysia to future-proof their careers.

To learn more, visit curtin.edu.my/study/postgraduate/geospatial-intelligence/ or contact Curtin Malaysia’s Domestic Student Recruitment Department at +60 85 630 000.

Curtin Malaysia is the largest international campus of Curtin University, Australia. Situated in Miri, Sarawak, it delivers globally recognised, industry-relevant education across science and engineering, business, humanities, and health sciences, with a strong focus on sustainability, innovation, and regional development. For more information on Curtin Malaysia, visit curtin.edu.my or follow Curtin Malaysia on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube or TikTok.

Shaping tomorrow’s world through spatial intelligence – empowering decisions, driving innovation, and building smarter, more sustainable futures.