UNIVERSITI Malaysia Terengganu (UMT) and UZMA Bhd (through its subsidiary UZMA Archaeological Sdn Bhd) will work together in the field of marine archaeological research, the first of its kind carried out in local public universities with an oil and gas company.
UMT vice chancellor Professor Datuk Dr Nor Aieni Mokhtar said that this five-year partnership will provide an opportunity for UMT researchers from various disciplines to draw on UZMA’s wealth of expertise to jointly explore marine archaeology and excavation not only locally but also internationally.
Experts from various background such as geoscience, maritime engineering, physical and chemical oceanography and marine biology will work together.
UMT and UZMA will establish a Marine Archaeological Research Laboratory at the university and a Marine Archaeological Research Centre and Excavation on Bidong Island, Kuala Terengganu.
Bidong Island is not only an UMT Marine Research Station but it also houses the history of Southeast Asia. The discovery of artefacts can add value to marine archaeological treasures on the island.
“A marine archaeological research pioneer in Malaysia, the laboratory and research centre will also contribute to global marine data archaeology,” added Nor Aieni.
UMT’s achievement in the field of marine exploration has been very encouraging. Its School of Marine Science and Environment, School of Marine Engineering and the Institute of Oceanography and Environment have gained recognition as Higher Institution Centres of Excellence by the Higher Education Ministry, setting the benchmark for learning and research in marine science at UMT.
UZMA Bhd chief executive officer Datuk Kamarul Redzuan Muhamed said: “This partnership offers more opportunities for both parties to highlight the science of archaeology and marine science in education, research and innovation.”