Australia and Malaysia Collaborate to Establish Southeast Asia Maritime Institute at UOW
On December 4, 2024, the Australian National Centre for Ocean Resources and Security (ANCORS) Southeast Asia Maritime Institute was officially inaugurated at the University of Wollongong Malaysia’s Glenmarie campus in Shah Alam. The ceremony was attended by Australia’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Senator Penny Wong, along with various dignitaries, including the Australian High Commissioner to Malaysia, Danielle Heinecke; Member of Parliament Howard Lee; and Datin Paduka Nur Ashikin Mohd Taib, Director-General of Maritime Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Opening Ceremony Remarks
The opening event featured remarks from UOW Chancellor Michael Yam, who outlined the strategic partnership between UOW ANCORS and UOW Malaysia in the establishment of the institute. He acknowledged the support from the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, noting that this initiative is expected to enhance the academic offerings at UOW Malaysia and contribute to the field of maritime studies.
Role of the Institute
Minister Wong highlighted the role of the institute in fostering regional maritime collaboration. She recognized Malaysia’s historical significance in maritime governance and emphasized the value of cooperative ventures in promoting a better understanding of international law and maintaining regional stability.
Ceremony Conclusion
The ceremony concluded with a ribbon-cutting event, officially marking the opening of the ANCORS Southeast Asia Maritime Institute. Minister Wong also toured the facility and interacted with students participating in a short course focused on Southeast Asian Women in Maritime Security.
Strategic Location
The UOW Malaysia Glenmarie campus is strategically located near Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya, making it well-positioned to attract students from across Southeast Asia, with an aim to engage participants from the broader Indian Ocean region. This positioning leverages Malaysia’s connectivity to nations such as India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives.
About ANCORS
ANCORS is identified as the only multidisciplinary, university-based center in the Southern Hemisphere dedicated to research, advisory services, education, and training in areas related to ocean law, maritime security, and marine resource management. The center is noted for its contributions to policy development for government and ocean-related organizations within Australia and the Indo-Pacific region.
(Source: University of Wollongong Malaysia)
