UTM and Starfive forge strategic partnership to boost student development and research

Office of Strategy and Corporate Affairs | Aina

JOHOR BAHRU, 14 Aug. – Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) has significantly strengthened its ties with the technology industry by signing a Memorandum of Understanding with Starfive Technology International Sdn Bhd, a global leader in RISC-V core technology and ecosystem development. This partnership, which aims to promote student development and research, was formalized during a ceremony at UTM Johor Bahru today.

Present at the signing of the MoU were UTM’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation), Prof. Dr. Rosli bin Md Illias, and Starfive’s Vice President and Managing Director, Mr. Ong Chin Hu.

In his speech, Prof. Dr. Rosli bin Md Illias expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership and explained the benefits it would bring to both parties. “UTM is indeed glad that Starfive appreciates the synergies that can be derived from this collaboration. We hope that this MOU will be a turning point for better mutual understanding in every aspect in the future. This includes sharing of expertise, enhancing collaboration on research and industry-oriented curriculum, active learning and applied research and technical training,” he said. He also emphasized that such partnerships between educational institutions and industry are crucial to promote new knowledge and contribute to overall prosperity.

UTM Starfive — *Prof. Rosli delivered his welcoming speech during the ceremony this evening*

The MoU outlines several key initiatives aimed at promoting both student development and advancement in research, particularly in the field of advanced technology. These include the establishment of a satellite laboratory, the organization of industrial training programs for students and academic staff, support for final-year student projects and much more. This collaboration is expected to familiarize students with cutting-edge technologies while facilitating knowledge exchange between UTM and Starfive.

Founded in 2021, Penang-based Starfive has quickly emerged as a major player through its comprehensive range of silicon-proven RISC-V CPU IP series as well as platform-based software and hardware full-stack chip solutions. The company’s cutting-edge products are widely used in various sectors, including smart home devices, factory automation, intelligent surveillance systems and more.

In 2022, UTM’s Faculty of Electrical Engineering began collaborating with Starfive on several projects through the VeCAD laboratory. These initial interactions laid the foundation for a more formalized partnership ultimately leading to the signing of this MoU.

The collaboration is poised to benefit not only UTM and Starfive but also elevate their global profile. Both institutions hope that this collaboration will enhance their reputations both nationally and internationally further establishing them as leaders in their respective fields.

The event was also attended by the Director of Physical Design, Starfive Technology International Sdn Bhd, Mr. See Tah Chai, Human Resource Manager, Starfive Technology International Sdn Bhd, Ms. Doreen Ng, Dean of Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Prof. Dr. Jafri Din, and other representatives from both organizations.