UBD Signs MoU with Space Faculty and Hosts CEO Lynette Tan for 40th Anniversary Seminar
Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) recently established a partnership with Space Faculty Pte Ltd, Singapore, by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) as part of its 40th anniversary celebrations. The formal signing took place on August 26, 2025, with UBD Vice-Chancellor Dr. Hazri Haji Kifle and Space Faculty’s CEO Lynette Tan as the primary signatories. The event was also attended by Dr. Haji Abdul Hanif Dato Paduka Haji Mahadi, UBD Assistant Vice-Chancellor for Research, Innovation, and Sustainability, and Cedric Ng, Head of Business Development at Space Faculty.
MoU Signing and Seminar Details
The MoU signing was preceded by a seminar featuring Tan, held on August 25 at UBD’s Senate Room. This event was co-organized by the Office of Assistant Vice-Chancellor of Research, Innovation, and Sustainability (OAVCRIS) and the Institute for Biodiversity and Environmental Research (IBER). The seminar, titled “Beyond the Horizon: Building a Future in the New Space Economy,” explored the evolution of the global space industry, with a particular focus on the growing importance of Asia. Among the attendees was Shaun Philip Grosse, Deputy High Commissioner of Singapore to Brunei Darussalam.
Youth Engagement in the Future
During the seminar, Tan highlighted the importance of youth engagement in shaping the future, emphasizing that individuals from all backgrounds can contribute to this process.
UBD’s Commitment to Research and Innovation
UBD has positioned itself as a leader in research related to tropical biodiversity, climate science, environmental study, and sustainability. Recently, the university has expanded its research focus to incorporate space and technological innovations. IBER, for example, utilizes remote sensing technologies, typically applied in Earth observation, to enhance biodiversity and environmental research. The integration of space-based technologies can provide practical benefits for Brunei, such as monitoring climate change, supporting reforestation efforts, improving disaster management, and protecting coastal and marine ecosystems.
Participation in International Space Challenge 2025
Additionally, UBD researchers and students are set to participate in the International Space Challenge (ISC) 2025 this October. Organized by Space Faculty, this global competition aims to connect young innovators with industry professionals, with this year’s theme centered on “Unlocking Space Capabilities Through AI.” Participants will be tasked with developing artificial intelligence-based solutions to address key areas in space technology, facilitating the enhancement of skills in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), as well as preparing them for competencies needed in the 21st century.
Conclusion
The recent MoU and seminar underscore UBD’s commitment to advancing knowledge and innovation, with the goal of empowering future generations in Brunei Darussalam to engage proactively in the expanding global space economy.
(Source: UBD News)
