Malaysian timber giant Samling signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Curtin University Malaysia to establish a wide-ranging partnership that bridges academic and industry expertise, focusing on advancing sustainability and supporting long-term developmental goals.
Samling CEO Lawrence Chia said collaboration with Curtin Malaysia would amplify these efforts by integrating cutting-edge research with real-world applications, ensuring that sustainability initiatives are innovative and practical.
The agreement encompasses joint research, consultancy services, product development, student development initiatives, internships and scholarships, staff and student exchange programs, career development, and training.
The collaboration will see both organisations pooling resources and expertise to drive impactful research, particularly in areas such as sustainability, carbon capture technology, carbon market initiatives, afforestation, reforestation and revegetation, improved forest management, and reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation (REDD+).
In addition, the partnership will facilitate significant knowledge sharing, community development efforts, and the organising of workshops and conferences. Both Curtin Malaysia and Samling Group will also collaborate on joint research grant applications and joint funding of key research projects.
Curtin University Malaysia was established in 1999 in partnership with the Sarawak State Government and now offers services to students from more than 50 countries. The partnership with Samling is a significant step forward for Curtin University in its strategic focus on ‘People, Planet, and Partnerships’, particularly in support of United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Professor Vincent Lee Chieng Chen, Acting Pro Vice-Chancellor and CEO of Curtin Malaysia said the MoU marked new chapter in a commitment to sustainability and industry engagement.
“Our collaboration with Samling Group underscores the importance of harnessing academic expertise and industry experience to develop solutions that benefit both people and the planet,” Professor Chen said. “We are excited about the potential of this partnership to support research into sustainable forest management and carbon capture, which are key areas in mitigating climate change.”
Both Curtin Malaysia and Samling Group are committed to supporting the Sarawak Post-COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030, particularly in innovation, education and human capital, renewable energy, and digital transformation. By aligning their collaboration with these priorities, the two organisations aim to contribute meaningfully to Sarawak’s vision of being a developed state and regional leader in sustainable development by 2030.
Mr Chia said that the group has been managing timber concessions in Sarawak since 1963, integrating sustainable forest management practices.
“Our concessions are certified, reflecting our ongoing efforts to align with environmental standards. We are also part of Sarawak’s first nature-based carbon project, which supports our commitment to addressing climate change.”
The MoU also strongly emphasises student and staff development, with initiatives such as internships, scholarships, and exchange programs designed to prepare students for successful careers while providing industry professionals with continuous learning opportunities. The collaboration will further support career development and training, equipping participants with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in an evolving global landscape.
