Pertama Ferroalloys Sdn Bhd (PFA) has formalised a strategic collaboration with Curtin University Malaysia through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), underscoring its commitment to talent development, applied research, and sustainable industrial advancement.

The MoU establishes a collaborative framework to strengthen industry–academia engagement, enhance workforce readiness, and support long-term growth within Malaysia’s resources and industrial sectors. The agreement was signed by Curtin Malaysia’s Pro Vice-Chancellor, President and Chief Executive, Professor Vincent Lee Chieng Chen, and Pertama Ferroalloys’ Vice Chairman, Mr Yuki Nakamura, witnessed by senior representatives from both organisations.

Professor Lee highlighted the importance of close collaboration between universities and industry, noting that the partnership aligns Curtin’s strengths in engineering, science, and research with Pertama Ferroalloys’ extensive operational and technical expertise.

Mr Nakamura reaffirmed Pertama Ferroalloys’ role in nurturing future-ready talent through practical, industry-driven learning. He emphasized the value of industry engagement in specialized fields such as metallurgy and highlighted the critical shortage of electrical engineers with high-voltage expertise in Sarawak; an issue also faced by advanced industrial economies. Addressing these gaps, he said, is essential for sustaining industrial growth and resilience.

Under the partnership, Curtin Malaysia students will benefit from structured internships, industrial placements, graduate recruitment pathways, and potential scholarship opportunities at Pertama Ferroalloys. The collaboration also paves the way for joint research in ferroalloy production, advanced materials, energy efficiency, and sustainable industrial practices, alongside continuous professional development programmes and joint corporate social responsibility initiatives focused on sustainable development in Sarawak.

This partnership reflects a shared vision between Pertama Ferroalloys and Curtin University Malaysia to develop industry-ready talent, drive innovation, and create lasting value for both industry and the wider community.