KUCHING – Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus (Swinburne Sarawak) has recently inked a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Sarawak’s largest representative body of manufacturing companies, Sarawak Manufacturers’ Association (SMA). The signing ceremony was witnessed by Swinburne Sarawak’s University Council Member, Datuk Wan Ali Bin Wan Yubi @ Tuanku Yubi.
Under the MoU agreement, the two organisations will be collaborating in the areas of talent sourcing, industry-engaged learning, employee upskilling and also undertake joint research projects. With Swinburne Sarawak’s track record in delivering applicable solutions to real-world problems, SMA’s 176 member companies are looking to leverage on the technology expertise at the University to explore potential projects and create solutions with University experts.
Currently, plans for a Technology Solution Centre are underway, where SMA members would be able to raise relevant issues face by their businesses and also propose collaborative projects with Swinburne Sarawak. Experts at Swinburne Sarawak could then look into the different approaches available to create practical solutions for the members.
“Our partnership with SMA is a manifestation of the Swinburne Horizon 2025 vision as well as our Moon Shot 3 which guides us towards our vision – bringing people and technology together to build a better world, and delivering tech solutions to every Swinburne partner. Through the planned Technology Solution Centre, we are excited to see the outcomes of our research create impact and value to SMA members and the community as a whole,” said Swinburne Sarawak Pro-Vice Chancellor and CEO, Ir. Professor Lau Hieng Ho.
Coinciding with the 60th anniversary of the Association, SMA President Peter Chai sees the MoU signing as an excellent opportunity for Sarawak manufacturers to upskill, upgrade and increase their competitiveness within their respective sectors.
Peter Chai shared, “Today’s MoU signing marks the beginning of our partnership with Swinburne Sarawak, and we are looking forward to our joint commitment towards this partnership with potential projects to come. We appreciate the opportunity to collaborate with a prestigious university such as Swinburne and we hope that through the projects we execute under this MoU, we will be able to increase awareness and understanding of SME manufacturers in Sarawak.”
In response to the Association’s need of upskilling their employees to ensure their skills remain relevant in a rapidly changing world, Swinburne Sarawak’s subsidiary, SWIM, will be working with specific SMA members to develop and conduct customised short courses or developmental programs based on their needs and requirements.