Monday, 19 August 2024 marked a significant milestone at the University of Wollongong Malaysia (UOWM), Glenmarie Campus, with the official launch of the Graduate Certificate program by the Australian National Centre for Ocean Resources and Security (ANCORS) and the University of Wollongong, Australia (UOW). This collaboration marks a valuable advancement in maritime education by making this program accessible at UOWM.

The opening ceremony was graced by the distinguished presence of His Excellency Simon Fellows, Australian Deputy High Commissioner and YBhg Datin Paduka Nur Ashikin Mohd Taib, Director-General of the Maritime Affairs Department. Representing ANCORS were Dr Sarah Lothian, Senior Lecturer and Academic Barrister, Dr Frances Anggadi, Senior Lecturer and Ms Ruth Davis, Master’s Program Coordinator. The event commenced with welcoming remarks and an official opening ceremony by His Excellency Simon Fellows and YBhg Datin Paduka Nur Ashikin Mohd Taib, setting the tone for a momentous day. Their insightful remarks set the tone for productive discussions and collaborations within the maritime sector.

Following the formalities, attendees were treated to a campus tour, showcasing UOWM’s state-of-the-art facilities. After a luncheon at LeCuisiner Restaurant, the afternoon featured discussions with Mr Aedan Whyatt, Assistant Secretary for the Southeast Asia Development Policy and Programs Branch, Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), and culminated with a presentation on the University of Wollongong Malaysia and its Transnational Education (TNE) initiatives by Professor Dr Hon Wei Min, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) of UOWM.

Her Excellency Danielle Heineck, Australian High Commissioner to Malaysia (fourth from the right in photo), was also present at the event, along with Ms Fiona Morris and Mr Lachlan McPhee, Counsellors for Education and Research at the Australian High Commission to Malaysia. Additionally, Mr Daniel Phan, Policy Officer for Malaysia and Brunei at DFAT Canberra, and Mr Michael Collins, Consultant, were in attendance.