ANKARA — In a move set to boost its international academic profile, i-CATS University College has entered a strategic partnership with Türkiye’s renowned Middle East Technical University (METU).
This collaboration, solidified through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), aims to foster excellence in science, engineering, and technology.
The MoU was formally signed during the 13th Ankara International Aerospace Conference (AIAC’25), which METU hosted from September 17 to 19.
The event also provided a platform for i-CATS to demonstrate its growing research capabilities, with its Faculty of Aerospace Engineering presenting a research paper.
Under the new agreement, both institutions will engage in joint research and innovation initiatives, particularly in aerospace and related fields.
The partnership also includes plans for academic exchange programs, professional development courses, and industry-focused projects that align with the strategic goals of both Malaysia and Türkiye.
Tan Sri Datuk Amar (Dr) Abdul Aziz Husain, Chairman of the Board of Directors for i-CATS University College, highlighted the significance of the partnership.
He stated that the collaboration with METU is a “catalyst for transforming Sarawak into a powerhouse of high-technology education and innovation,” adding that it will provide students and researchers with valuable global exposure.
Echoing this sentiment, Professor Emeritus Datuk Ts. Dr. Mohamad Kadim Suaidi, Vice Chancellor of i-CATS University College, emphasized that the collaboration is designed to “elevate Sarawak’s role in the global knowledge economy.”
He believes the partnership will establish a foundation for impactful research and global talent mobility.
The Vice President of METU, Professor Dr. Feride Pınar Acar, also expressed enthusiasm for the alliance.
She remarked that the partnership underscores both universities’ shared mission to advance aerospace education and research, with a lasting impact not only in Türkiye and Sarawak but worldwide.
