Curtin Malaysia and SuperMap Software join hands to advance application of GIS technology in engineering education

Miri – 25 July 2023 – Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia) and SuperMap Software Co. Ltd., a leading geospatial technology company with expertise in Geographical Information Systems (GIS) software development, recently signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) to advance the application of GIS technology in education, in addition to collaboration in student development, research, and exchange of knowledge and expertise.

This strategic partnership aims to foster the exchange of knowledge and expertise in GIS technology, creating valuable opportunities for students, professionals, and researchers alike. Through the MOA, both organisations are committed to exploring and implementing initiatives that will contribute to the growth and development of the GIS industry.

Signing on behalf of Curtin Malaysia was Deputy Pro Vice-Chancellor Professor Vincent Lee, while Anis Farhana binti Mohd. Fadli, Business Development, SuperMap Asia & Oceania Center, signed for SuperMap Software Co. Ltd.

Also present were Dean of Research & Development and Director of the Curtin Malaysia Research Institute, John Curtin Distinguished Professor Ramasamy Nagarajan; Dean of Faculty of Engineering and Science, Professor Tuong-Thuy Vu; Associate Dean of External Engagement, Associate Professor Ir. Lim Chye Ing; Head of Department of Applied Sciences, Professor M.V. Prasanna; Applied Sciences associate lecturer Vivian Dayong; and SuperMap Malaysia technical support engineer, Nursyafika Zakaria.

Under the scope of the agreement, Curtin Malaysia will be hosting the 'SuperMap for Education and Research' programme, wherein SuperMap will provide its licensed GIS software for educational and research purposes. This programme will allow students and researchers to access state-of-the-art GIS tools and technologies, enabling them to conduct research and projects at the forefront of GIS innovation.

In addition to the license provision, SuperMap will conduct training sessions for the researchers, academics, and students. These training sessions will not only educate participants but also equip them with the necessary skills to utilise the software effectively.

Moreover, Curtin Malaysia and SuperMap Software Co. Ltd. will also work together to facilitate internships, enabling Curtin Malaysia students to gain practical experience in a real-world GIS environment. This invaluable hands-on experience will empower the students with the confidence and skills required to excel in their future careers and enhance their employability prospects.

In addition to internships, the collaboration will provide enhanced job placement opportunities for students, ensuring that they are well-prepared for the demanding job market. Students who pursue GIS-related programmes will benefit from direct industry exposure and networking opportunities through SuperMap Software Co. Ltd.'s extensive professional network.

Research activities will also play a significant role in the partnership. The collaboration will facilitate joint research projects, allowing faculty members, researchers, and students to collaborate on innovative GIS solutions, advancing knowledge and pushing the boundaries of geospatial technology. This collaborative effort aims to benefit not only our organisations but also the wider GIS community.

Jointly organising workshops and seminars will be another highlight of the partnership. These events will serve as platforms for knowledge exchange, bringing together experts, professionals, and students to discuss and address pertinent issues and developments in the field of GIS.

In his speech during the signing ceremony, Professor Lee stated, "Our partnership with SuperMap Software Co. Ltd. marks an exciting milestone in geospatial technology. Through this collaboration, we aim to elevate the educational experience of our students and provide them with a competitive edge in the industry. We are thrilled to work closely with SuperMap Software Co. Ltd., a recognised leader in GIS technology, to bring numerous benefits to our students, graduates and researchers."

“Curtin, as a leading global institution of higher education, has always been committed to providing its students with top-notch academic programmes and opportunities for personal and professional growth. The university takes pride in producing graduates who are not only well-rounded individuals but also equipped with the knowledge and skills sought after by industries,” he added.

Anis Farhana, meanwhile, remarked that the partnership would help bridge the gap between industry and academia, and expressed hopes that students and researchers of Curtin Malaysia would find the SuperMap GIS software very useful for their studies and research.

“We are delighted to partner with Curtin University Malaysia, an institution that shares our commitment to innovation and academic excellence. This collaboration will contribute to the advancement of GIS technology in Malaysia, and we look forward to providing students with industry insights to shape the future of geospatial technology," she said.

As both organisations strive to make significant contributions to the GIS industry, this collaboration marks the beginning of a fruitful partnership that will unlock endless possibilities for students, researchers, and professionals alike.

For more information on Curtin Malaysia, visit www.curtin.edu.my or look for Curtin Malaysia on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn or TikTok.