UTP and DOST-XI Forge Partnership to Drive Innovation and Socio-Economic Progress
11 July 2023
Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (UTP) and the Department of Science and Technology Regional Office XI (DOST-XI) of the Philippines have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) which aims to fortify collaboration between the two nations, driving innovation and advancing socio-economic progress.
UTP was represented by its Deputy Vice Chancellor for Research, Innovation and Commercialisation (RIC) Prof Ir Dr Mohd Shahir Liew while DOST-XI was represented by its Regional Director Dr. Anthony C. Sales, PFT, CESO III.
The signing was witnessed by the Third Secretary and Vice Consul from the Embassy of the Philippines in Malaysia, Kara Denise C. Frayco.
The key highlights of the MoU are:
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Quadruple Helix Outcomes: UTP will foster collaboration between academia, industry, and government, accelerating innovation and spurring economic growth in both Malaysia and the Philippines. This includes expanding technology exploitation and global delivery for Philippine products.
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Bilateral and Multilateral Training Programmes: UTP will facilitate training programmes and commercialisation workshops, contributing to the sustainable development of the region. This includes upscaling Philippine products to higher Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) for the global market.
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Opportunities for Joint Business Development: The MoU creates collaborative opportunities, fostering innovation and strengthening economic ties. Both parties will benefit from entrepreneurship development programmes, nurturing innovative entrepreneurs.
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Staff Exchange Programme: UTP and DOST-XI will implement a staff exchange programme focused on RIC, encouraging cross-pollination of ideas and expertise.
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Signature Projects: Four focused collaboration projects, including Halal Blockchain (Halal Transparent Traceability System (HTTS)) Mini Portable Solar Still (MPSS), Picohydro Energy and Innovation Hub.
Shahir expressed excitement about the collaboration, stating, "This MoU aims to strengthen academic, research and socio-economic ties between Malaysia and the Philippines, contributing to global technological advancements and technology meets nature. The partnership represents a significant step towards strengthening bilateral and multilateral ties, fostering cross-cultural exchange and mutual growth."
“The MoU encompasses a wide range of socio-economic and talent development initiatives, creating a positive impact on both nations' future prospects. UTP's role as a funder for research, innovation and commercialisation unlocks the potential of novel ideas and launches innovative products into the market. Furthermore, the collaboration aligns with the Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) agendas, addressing critical global challenges,” he added.
DOST-XI shared this enthusiasm, recognising the importance of international collaboration and the role of universities in knowledge creation and problem-solving. By complementing each other's strengths and expertise, both parties work together to support industry competitiveness and build sustainable communities.
"We recognise that many challenges do not stop at borders and cannot be solved in isolation. This partnership represents our essential efforts to improve services, transform lives and increase economic development in our respective countries,” said Anthony Sales.
This MoU establishes the framework for a long-term and sustainable partnership that will drive innovation and growth in both Malaysia and the Philippines. Furthermore, it signifies a historic milestone in UTP's journey, which has already made significant strides in gaining global prominence since its inception.
The groundwork for collaboration and partnership with the Philippines began in 2017 and gained momentum through the establishment of the Philippines-Malaysia Institutional and Industrial Initiatives (PMIII) in the same year. Specifically with DOST-XI, the collaborative activities rolled out in 2019 which eventually paved way for this impactful partnership with the Philippines.
