KUCHING: A strategic collaboration between the Public Works Department (JKR) Sarawak and Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus opens a new chapter in the development of local talent through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at expanding industrial training, research and professional development opportunities, particularly for students.

The five-year collaboration emphasises providing direct industry exposure to students, bridging the gap between academic learning and the actual needs of the construction and infrastructure sectors in Sarawak.

The MoU signing ceremony was officiated by Swinburne Sarawak Pro Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive Officer Ir Professor Lau Hieng Ho together with JKR Sarawak Director Datu Dr Cassidy Morris at the Swinburne Sarawak campus on Wednesday.

According to Datu Dr Cassidy, the collaboration aims to strengthen partnership between academic institutions and the government technical agency, particularly in research and studies related to the construction industry.

“Through this MoU, we want to explore research and studies that are mutually beneficial and are relevant to the construction industry.

“As a large department, JKR Sarawak is also able to offer practical training opportunities to students, in addition to strengthening existing collaborations,” he said when met by reporters after the MoU signing ceremony.

However, he explained that the recruitment of students for industrial training will be conducted selectively based on suitability and needs of the department.

“We cannot accept too many students at a time. Assessments will be made to ensure that they meet the required criteria, but we still open space for Swinburne students to gain experience with JKR Sarawak,” he said.

Meanwhile, Datu Dr Cassidy also announced the proposal to introduce the JKR Sarawak Industry Award for outstanding students as an initiative to recognise graduate talent.

“This proposal is still in the discussion stage with Swinburne. We see the potential to recognise outstanding students and further encourage excellence in related fields,” he explained.

Through the collaboration, both parties also plan to undertake joint research and pilot studies related to infrastructure challenges by integrating Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) elements in every stage of project development.

In addition, the MoU opens up space for the implementation of professional development programmes such as webinars, training and expertise sharing between Swinburne Sarawak and JKR Sarawak’s network of professional consultants. -UKASnews

Prepared By: Ezzah Syafiqah
Translator: Nerissa Sia