MIRI: Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Sterling Technical Services Sdn Bhd in a strategic move to strengthen industry-academia collaboration in offshore and marine engineering.
The agreement, signed at Curtin Malaysia’s Miri campus, brings together Sterling Technical Services’ extensive experience in oil and gas, renewable energy, surveying, and risk management with Curtin Malaysia’s academic and research expertise.
The partnership aims to drive talent development, foster knowledge exchange, and deliver innovative engineering solutions for the region’s growing offshore sector.
The MoU was signed by Professor Vincent Lee Chieng Chen, pro vice-chancellor, president and chief executive of Curtin Malaysia, and Paulus Handidjaja, general manager of Sterling Technical Services.
They were joined by senior Curtin Malaysia academics, including Associate Professor Ir Lim Chye Ing, Associate Dean for External Engagement of the Faculty of Engineering and Science; Professor John Lau Sie Yon, Associate Dean for Research and Development; Professor Ir Stephanie Chan Yen San, head of the Department of Chemical and Energy Engineering; and Associate Professor Ir Wong Kwong Soon, head of the Department of Civil and Construction Engineering.
Sterling’s delegation included director Prescilla Raymond and guest representative Dr Manoj Mukundan, senior geotechnical consultant from Somehsa Geosciences Pte Ltd, Singapore.
Prof Lee described the collaboration as a forward-looking alliance that will enhance research capabilities and graduate employability.
“Sterling’s expertise and innovative geotechnical solutions make them an invaluable partner. Together, we can deliver impactful research and produce graduates equipped with both academic excellence and industry-ready skills.”
Handidjaja stressed the relevance of the collaboration in light of the offshore geotechnics sector’s rapid global growth.
“Through this partnership, we aim to equip Curtin graduates with the specialised knowledge and practical exposure needed to excel in a competitive, high-tech industry.”
Under the agreement, the two parties will explore joint research projects, student internships, technical training, and the sharing of industry best practices. The collaboration is also expected to strengthen Sarawak’s position as a hub for engineering expertise in Southeast Asia.
