Curtin Malaysia strengthens research collaboration with Universiti Malaysia Terengganu’s AKUATROP
Posted date:Miri – 24 October 2023 – A delegation from Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia) led by Pro Vice-Chancellor Professor Simon Leunig recently visited Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT) and its renowned Institute of Tropical Aquaculture and Fisheries (AKUATROP) in Kuala Terengganu.
The purpose of the visit was to further enhance research collaboration between the two universities, particularly in areas outlined in a Letter of Intent (LoI) signed in June last year, and in light of the opening of the Curtin Aquaculture Research Laboratory (CARL), Curtin Malaysia’s own aquaculture research facility later this year and the potential collaborations that would present.
The delegation from Curtin Malaysia, which also comprised Dr. Lee Yih Nin, lecturer in aquaculture in the Department of Applied Sciences at Curtin Malaysia’s Faculty of Engineering and Science, and Brenda Lee, Global Admissions Manager at Curtin’s
Global Admissions Office based at Curtin Malaysia, was warmly welcomed by UMT’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dato’ Dr. Mazlan Bin Abd Ghaffar, Head of Chancellery Administration Abdullah Syukri Bin M. Saleh, AKUATROP Deputy Director Associate Professor Ts. Dr. Nor Azman, and researchers at AKUATROP.
Under the LoI, Curtin Malaysia and UMT have committed to fostering a mutually beneficial partnership in research, student exchange programmes, and knowledge exchange. Both institutions recognise the importance of cooperation in tackling the challenges faced by the aquaculture industry and addressing sustainable development goals.
During the visit, Professor Leunig expressed his enthusiasm for the ongoing and future collaboration, stating, “This visit reaffirms our commitment to strengthening ties between Curtin Malaysia and UMT. We continue to discuss various joint research initiatives and academic collaborations that will contribute to the advancement of aquaculture and fisheries studies within the region.”
“By pooling our expertise, resources, and research capabilities, we can make significant contributions to the field of aquaculture and fisheries, leading to sustainable practices and improved livelihoods.”
Prof. Leunig announced that, as part of this collaboration, Curtin Malaysia and UMT through AKUATROP are providing matching grants for a joint research project on using microalgae for waste water treatment in aquaculture led by the Associate Dean of Research and Development at Curtin Malaysia’s Faculty of Engineering and Science, Associate Professor John Lau Sie Yon.
Prof. Leunig also highlighted the establishment of Curtin Malaysia’s CARL, due to be opened by the Premier of Sarawak in December this year. This state-of-the-art facility will provide a dedicated space for Curtin researchers to conduct cutting-edge research in areas such as aquaculture technology, water quality, fish disease management, and fish nutrition. The laboratory will also serve as a hub for collaboration with UMT’s researchers and will further promote knowledge exchange and innovation.
Both universities are thrilled about the opportunities that this collaboration will bring. With their complementary strengths and expertise, they aim to develop innovative solutions and best practices that can be applied globally to enhance the aquaculture industry.
Prof. Dato’ Dr. Mazlan said that aquaculture is a top priority both universities are focusing on to support Malaysia’s bid to bolster food security.
Following their discussion with Prof. Dato’ Dr. Mazlan and members of UMT’s leadership team, the Curtin Malaysia delegation attended a series of meetings with researchers at AKUATROP. They also visited AKUATROP’s laboratories and hatcheries, including its state-of-the-art Artemia hatchery.
At the end of the meetings Director of AKUATROP, Professor Mohammad Ikhwanuddin, said he was very excited about the research collaboration between two universities and looked forward to strengtehing their partnership in the years to come. Besides conducting joint research, researchers from Curtin Malaysia have also attended workshops and training conducted by AKUATROP.
Information on Curtin Malaysia can be found on its website at curtin.edu.my, or look for Curtin Malaysia on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn or TikTok.