Utp, Dost-xi Sign Mou To Strengthen Socio-economic Ties Between Malaysia, Philippines

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 5 (Bernama) -- 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) to fortify collaboration, drive innovation and advance socio-economic progress between the two nations.

UTP, in a statement today, said the MoU will foster collaboration between academia, industry, and government, accelerating innovation and spurring economic growth in both countries, including expanding technology exploitation and global delivery for Philippine products.

Through the MoU, UTP will also facilitate training programmes and commercialisation workshops, contributing to the sustainable development of the region that includes upscaling Philippine products to higher Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) for the global market.

“The MoU creates collaborative opportunities, fostering innovation and strengthening economic ties. Both parties will benefit from entrepreneurship development programmes, nurturing innovative entrepreneurs. 

“UTP and DOST-XI will implement a staff exchange programme focused on Research, Innovation and Commercialisation (RIC), encouraging cross-pollination of ideas and expertise,” said the statement.

According to the statement, the MoU will also focus on both parties' signature projects consisting of four focused collaboration projects, including Halal Blockchain HATTS, Mini Portable Solar Still (MPSS), Picohydro Energy and Innovation Hub.

At the MoU signing ceremony, UTP was represented by deputy vice-chancellor for RIC Prof Dr Mohd Shahir Liew while DOST-XI was represented by its regional director Dr Anthony C. Sales. The third secretary and vice consul of the Philippine embassy in Malaysia, Kara Denise C. Frayco, witnessed the signing.

Meanwhile, Dr Mohd Shahir said the MoU aims to strengthen academic, research and socio-economic ties between Malaysia and the Philippines, contributing to global technological advancements.

He said the partnership signifies a historic milestone in UTP's journey, which has already made significant strides in gaining global prominence since its inception and represents a significant step towards strengthening bilateral and multilateral ties, fostering cross-cultural exchange and mutual growth of both countries

“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 said in the statement.

Dr Anthony, on the other hand, said the partnership represents essential efforts to improve services, transform lives and increase economic development in the respective countries. 

-- BERNAMA