Curtin Malaysia strengthens regional aquaculture ties through IBTE collaboration

Miri, Sarawak – 30 December 2024 – Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia) has taken a significant step toward advancing aquaculture education and research in the region by forging a strategic collaboration with the Institute of Brunei Technical Education (IBTE).

The partnership, established during a recent visit by an IBTE delegation to Curtin Malaysia, signals exciting prospects for knowledge exchange, student mobility, and joint industry-linked projects.

The IBTE delegation, led by Zaitunah Haji Kurus, Head of School for Agro-Technology & Applied Sciences, included International and Industry Linkages Officers Jane Ting and Safwan Zulkofli, aquaculture instructors, and Fakhri Ishak, a representative of the Australian High Commission in Brunei Darussalam.

Welcoming them to Curtin Malaysia were key university leaders, including Professor Ravi Fotedar, Director of the Curtin Aquaculture Research Lab (CARL); Associate Professor Ir. Lim Chye Ing, Associate Dean of External Engagement, Faculty of Engineering and Science; Associate Professor Fidella Tiew, Dean of the School of Pre-U and Continuing Education (SPACE); and Dr. Lee Yih Nin, Assistant Director of CARL.

Dr. Lee highlighted that the collaboration, facilitated by the Australian High Commission, builds upon Curtin Malaysia’s reputation as a centre of excellence in aquaculture. She noted that CARL’s potential was recognised during the opening ceremony of the laboratory earlier this year, attended by Western Australia’s Trade and Investment Commissioner.

“This partnership allows Curtin Malaysia and IBTE to explore opportunities for staff and student exchanges, joint research initiatives, and industry collaborations that will strengthen both institutions’ expertise in aquaculture,” said Dr. Lee.

She mentioned that following the visit of the Western Australian Trade and Investment Commissioner in June, the Australian High Commission in Brunei Darussalam identified Curtin Malaysia as a potential partner for IBTE, particularly in the aquaculture sector. This led to a follow-up meeting and visit between CARL and IBTE’s School of Agro-Technology & Applied Science, with the International and Industry Linkages Division and the Australian High Commission acting as facilitators.

Associate Professor Tiew shared insights into Curtin Malaysia’s Diploma in Aquaculture programme, emphasising opportunities for IBTE students from the NTec in Aquaculture Programme to gain short-course certifications and micro-credentials at Curtin Malaysia.

Professor Ravi added that the state-of-the-art CARL provides an ideal environment for IBTE students to gain industrial training and hands-on research experience, enabling them to enhance their practical skills and knowledge.

Zaitunah, representing IBTE, lauded the discussions as a meaningful exchange of ideas and expressed optimism for the collaboration’s potential to advance aquaculture education and training in Brunei Darussalam and the region.

The visit concluded with a tour of CARL and NC Aqua Farm , where the IBTE delegates explored the laboratory’s cutting-edge facilities and discussed future initiatives with industry partner.

This partnership not only reinforces Curtin Malaysia’s role as a hub for aquaculture innovation but also strengthens ties with regional institutions, aligning with the university’s commitment to impactful education and research.

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

Zaitunah Haji Kurus (6th right) presenting a souvenir to Prof. Ravi while (from right) Assoc. Prof. Tiew, Assoc. Prof. Ir. Lim, Dr. Lee, and the IBTE delegation look on.