Curtin Malaysia’s GlobeCoReS 2024 gains overwhelming support for sustainable development

Miri, Sarawak – 5 September 2024 – The two-day GlobeSync Community Research and Sustainability Conference 2024 (GlobeCoReS), spearheaded by Curtin University Malaysia’s Faculty of Humanities and Health Sciences, opened to great acclaim on 3 September 2024, underscoring the university’s growing leadership in sustainability and community engagement.

Themed ‘Bridging Gaps, Building Futures: Integrative Strategies for Sustainable Development’, the conference attracted over 1,000 participants from 36 countries, both physically and virtually, further solidifying its global impact.

In her keynote address, Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah, Sarawak Minister for Women, Early Childhood, and Community Development, emphasised the transformative potential of the conference. “This gathering is more than just an event – it is a rallying point for those passionate about crafting a sustainable, equitable future. It is inspiring to see such a diverse assembly of participants united by a shared mission,” she stated, officially launching the conference at Curtin Malaysia’s Auditorium.

Fatimah praised GlobeCoReS 2024 for bringing together a distinguished array of experts, policymakers, and advocates to address some of the world’s most urgent challenges, including climate change, public health, and economic inequality.

“The presence of such a diverse group of leaders from various disciplines and regions underscores the power of collective action. Within today’s global challenges lie tremendous opportunities for innovation,” she remarked, calling for collaborative, integrative approaches to sustainable development.

Curtin Malaysia’s Acting Pro Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive, Professor Vincent Lee Chieng Chen, highlighted the university’s ongoing dedication to community-centred research.

“Our students and researchers are engaged in projects that directly tackle critical issues like public health, sustainable housing, and environmental conservation. GlobeCoReS 2024 is not just about discussing problems – it is about finding real-world solutions that have a tangible impact,” said Professor Lee during his opening remarks.

The conference, designed to foster interdisciplinary dialogue, brought together experts from fields such as public health, environmental science, economics, and technology, providing a platform for sharing ideas and formulating actionable strategies.

“Public health initiatives must consider environmental impacts, economic policies should promote social equity, and technological advancements need to prioritize sustainability. GlobeCoReS 2024 exemplifies how these integrative strategies can drive positive change,” added Fatimah.

The event also featured the presentation of the 2024 GlobeSync Sustainable Community Leader Award to Fatimah, recognising her exceptional efforts in championing community and sustainable development. The award was presented by Professor Lee on behalf of the conference organising committee led by Conference Chair Professor Roy Rillera Marzo, Dean of Curtin Malaysia’s Faculty of Humanities and Health Sciences.

The conference’s diverse programme included keynote addresses, panel discussions, and interactive sessions that explored the intersection of community research and sustainability. Attendees were encouraged to collaborate, share insights, and forge new partnerships to address the complex challenges of today’s world.

Meanwhile, during the conference’s Gala & Awards Dinner held at a leading hotel, officiated by Deputy Minister for Public Health, Housing and Local Government (Public Health & Housing) Datuk Michael Tiang Ming Tee, the prestigious GlobeSync Sustainable Community Leader Awards were also presented to the deputy minister and other distinguished individuals who have made significant contributions to community-driven sustainability efforts.

The recipients included Dr. Sara Wamala Anderson, a visionary in sustainable healthcare; Haji Japri bin Bujang Masli, a leader in environmental stewardship; Professor Tin Su, an inspirational public health researcher; Dayang Jok, an advocate for the preservation of natural resources and empowerment of indigenous communities; and NORXIN International Science and Technology Cooperation Base, a global leader in technological innovation for sustainable development.

In his address, Tiang applauded the conference’s ability to bring together diverse minds from across the globe – all united by a shared commitment to making our world a better place. stating, “Over the past two days, you have engaged in meaningful dialogue, exchanged innovative ideas, and explored integrative strategies that will help address the root causes of global disparities. Your efforts have laid the foundation for a future where sustainable development is not just an aspiration but a reality.”

“Whether we are addressing public health challenges or ensuring that housing developments meet the needs of all citizens, the key to success lies in our ability to integrate diverse perspectives and leverage collective expertise,” Tiang added.

Professor Vincent Lee also delivered a welcoming speech, expressing pride in Curtin Malaysia’s role as a leader in sustainability and community development.

“Curtin Malaysia is proud to have hosted this conference. Our commitment to issues such as public health, housing, education, or environmental sustainability is woven into the fabric of our institution, from the research we conduct to the way we engage with our communities. We are dedicated to not only advancing academic knowledge but also translating that knowledge into real-world solutions that make a difference in people’s lives,” he said.

Also present at the dinner were Deputy Mayor of Miri Haji Ariffin bin Mohamad, Chief Executive Officer of the State Library Haji Japri bin Bujang Masli, Professor Vincent Lee, Curtin Malaysia’s Chief Operating Officer Sharon Chong; Conference Chair and Dean of Faculty of Humanities and Health Sciences Professor Roy Rillera Marzo, other faculty deans and senior management staff.

GlobeCoReS 2024 proved to be a cornerstone event for Curtin Malaysia, reflecting the university’s commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and community leadership. It served as a reminder that sustainable development requires collaboration across disciplines, sectors, and nations.

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

Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah and Prof Vincent Lee launching GlobeCoReS 2024 while look on by Prof Roy Rillera Marzo (right), Sharon Chong (3rd left) and others

Prof Vincent Lee presenting GlobeSync Sustainable Community Leader Award to Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah, while others look on

Attendees symbolically show their shared commitment to sustainable development at the GlobeCoReS Opening Ceremony

Conference Chair Prof Roy Rillera Marzo delivering his speech during the Gala & Awards Dinner

Datuk Michael Tiang delivering his address at the dinner

Prof Vincent Lee presenting Datuk Michael Tiang his 2024 GlobeSync Sustainable Community Leader Award