CURTIN University Malaysia has formalised a strategic partnership with the Dayak Association Miri (DAM) through the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening indigenous learning, cultural immersion and community-based development initiatives.
The MoU was signed by the varsity’s pro-vice-chancellor, president and chief executive Prof Vincent Lee and DAM president Penghulu Wilfred Mac.
The agreement establishes a collaborative framework spanning work-integrated learning, student and staff development, joint projects, community initiatives and indigenous knowledge exchange, a Jan 26 press release read.
Prof Lee said the partnership reflects shared values and mutual respect, combining Curtin Malaysia’s strengths as a globally connected, research-intensive university with DAM’s long-standing community leadership and cultural stewardship.
“As a Sarawak government-owned university, we are deeply committed to social development, cultural preservation and inclusive growth, particularly for indigenous and local communities,” he said, adding that the collaboration would create inclusive, sustainable and transformative opportunities for the community.
Welcoming the collaboration, Wilfred said the MoU opens doors for meaningful cooperation and long-term shared impact.
Curtin Malaysia Faculty of Business dean Prof Pauline Ho highlighted the varsity’s efforts to enhance business literacy, skills development and entrepreneurial capacity among indigenous communities.
“Our faculty also offers a Culture, Communication and Indigenous Perspectives unit, which encourages students to engage respectfully with indigenous knowledge systems and apply these insights within global business contexts.
“Hopefully, this partnership will enable students to engage directly with the Dayak community through visits and collaborative initiatives,” she concluded.
