Kuala lumpur: Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) and the University of Canterbury (UC) have officially launched a joint satellite laboratory aimed at strengthening research excellence, innovation, and talent development on a global scale. UTM vice-chancellor Prof Dr Mohd Shafry Mohd Rahim announced that the strategic initiative with UC focuses on key areas including artificial intelligence (AI), immersive technologies, extended reality (XR), and advanced computing.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the establishment of the laboratory is expected to significantly enhance both institutions' capacity to produce innovative solutions with global impact. Mohd Shafry emphasized the importance of developing globally competent graduates and researchers through this joint laboratory. The partnership will facilitate joint supervision, mobility programs, and immersive exposure to international research ecosystems to meet evolving workforce demands.

Also present at the launch was UC deputy vice-chancellor (Research) Prof Lucy Johnston. Mohd Shafry noted that the satellite laboratory is anticipated to accelerate technology transfer and start-up incubation by leveraging the shared international industry networks of both universities. He highlighted that this collaboration represents a model for cross-institutional cooperation, reinforcing UTM's status as a globally connected research hub.

Furthermore, the collaboration aims to lay the groundwork for long-term societal impact in advanced computing and immersive digital innovation. Mohd Shafry revealed plans for UTM to collaborate with UC to upgrade several of its historic galleries using digital technology. This initiative is expected to serve as a reference model for historic galleries in Malaysia. Additionally, UTM and UC plan to offer a joint doctor of philosophy (PhD) program to address various complex challenges, benefiting both institutions.