BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN: Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) is expanding its research frontiers into the global space economy with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Singapore-based Space Faculty Pte Ltd and the hosting of a seminar by its Chief Executive Officer Lynette Tan, as part of the university’s 40th anniversary celebrations.
The MoU, signed on Tuesday (Aug 26) by UBD Vice-Chancellor Dr Hazri Kifle and Lynette Tan, was witnessed by UBD Assistant Vice-Chancellor (Research, Innovation and Sustainability) Dr Abdul Hanif Datuk Paduka Mahadi and Cedric Ng, Head of Business Development at Space Faculty.
Themed “Beyond the Horizon: Building a Future in the New Space Economy”, the seminar held earlier at the Chancellor Hall highlighted Asia’s rising influence in the global space industry. Present as guest of honour was Dr Hazri, joined by Deputy High Commissioner of Singapore to Brunei Darussalam Shaun Philip Grosse.
“I’m excited to meet Brunei’s young talents and to share how every person, regardless of background, can play a part in building our shared future,” Tan said during her talk.
UBD Vice-Chancellor Dr Hazri Haji Kifle and Space Faculty Pte Ltd Chief Executive Officer Lynette Tan at the MoU signing ceremony.
UBD has been a leading research force in biodiversity, climate and sustainability and is now broadening its vision to include space and technology. Among its initiatives is the Institute for Biodiversity and Environmental Research (IBER)’s use of remote sensing technologies from space to support research on biodiversity, climate change, reforestation, disaster management and coastal protection.
This October, a team of UBD researchers and students will also take part in the International Space Challenge (ISC) 2025 organised by Space Faculty. The competition, themed “Unlocking Space Capabilities Through AI”, aims to inspire innovative Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based solutions in space technology while building STEM skills and 21st-century competencies.
The partnership with Space Faculty underscores UBD’s commitment to advancing innovation and equipping Brunei Darussalam’s next generation to take part in the global space economy. - Borneo Bulletin/ANN
