Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT) and Indonesia’s National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) have established a strategic partnership that includes aspects of education, research and innovation. This program not only aims to increase academic exchange and expertise, but also strengthen diplomatic relations between Malaysia and Indonesia through knowledge sharing in the field of marine science and biotechnology.

In an official meeting held at the UMT Senate Hall recently, an MoU document exchange ceremony was also held. UMT was represented by Prof. Dr. Tengku Sifzizul Tengku Muhammad, Member of the UMT Board of Directors (Senate Representative) and Prof. Dr. Yeong Yik Sung, Director of the Institute of Climate Adaptation and Marine Biotechnology. While the Indonesian side is represented by Prof. Dr. Muhammad Firdaus, representative of the Indonesian embassy in Malaysia, and Prof. Dr. Ocky Karna Radjasa, Chairman of the Research and Innovation Agency.

One of the main components of the collaboration is the exchange of expertise between the two institutions. UMT, which has strengths in marine research and biotechnology, will collaborate with BRIN in carrying out innovative research that can benefit both countries. The field of marine and biotechnology in particular is expected to be the main focus because both countries have a rich marine ecosystem heritage and are also overflowing with biotechnology resources.
The strategic cooperation also includes the exchange of researchers and postgraduate students between UMT and BRIN.

In addition, the signed collaboration also involves the organization of seminars and symposiums that bring together academics and researchers from both countries. The planned seminar will be a platform to exchange ideas, share the latest research results and discuss challenges and opportunities in marine research and biotechnology. It will also give space to both countries to showcase their research success at the international level, further enhancing the academic reputation of UMT and BRIN.
Among other things, the collaboration also promises the production of high-impact publications through joint research that goes beyond traditional academic fields. The focus is on producing research that is relevant to current needs, especially in overcoming global issues such as the sustainability of marine resources, climate change and the management of marine and coastal ecosystems.

In addition, the collaboration is not only academic in nature, but also plays an important role in strengthening regional relations between Malaysia and Indonesia. The two countries share a rich history and culture as well as a long maritime heritage and at the same time open up space to deepen studies related to historical and cultural heritage as well as marine research that can contribute to a deeper understanding of the importance of maritime areas for both countries.
Beyond academic cooperation, the smart cooperation also plays an important role in strengthening regional relations as well as contributing to sustainable development and innovation relevant to today’s global challenges.