Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) Johor, Malaysia – The Sarawak Land and Survey Department (JTS) delegation, in collaboration with the Ministry of Urban Development and Natural Resources (MUDENR), recently concluded a productive technical colloquium and visit to the Faculty of Built Environment and Surveying at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM). The event, held from June 7th to June 9th, witnessed the active participation of 18 delegates from both agencies, led by TPr Irene Wee Siew Liang, Deputy Director (Planning) at JTS. The delegation was warmly received by esteemed individuals, including Prof Kherun Nita Ali, the Dean of the Faculty of Built Environment and Surveying at UTM (FABU), Assoc Prof Sr Dr Tajul Ariffin Musa, the Leader of the Satellite Lab UTM-JTS, and Assoc Prof TPr Dr Hairul Nizam Ismail, the Director of the Urban and Regional Planning Programme.
The presence and enthusiasm displayed by the JTS and MUDENR delegations highlight the continuous efforts and commitment from all parties involved in nurturing this fruitful collaboration and fostering a strong relationship. The organizers expressed their appreciation and gratitude to the paper presenters for sharing their ideas and expertise in various aspects of urban planning. A total of six papers were presented, contributed by the Sarawak Land and Survey Department, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Urban Development, as well as lecturers from the Faculty of Built Environment and Surveying at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia. It is hoped that these paper presentations will enrich knowledge exchange, foster idea-sharing, and serve as a reference and guide for urban planning professionals.
In addition to the colloquium, the delegates also embarked on a series of site visits, including the KEJORA headquarters, the Fisherman Museum in Tanjung Balau, the Desaru Coast Project, Kota Iskandar, Puteri Harbour, the center of Johor Bahru, and the Johor Premium Outlet (JPO) Flagship Project.
Overall, the JTS delegation expressed their sincere gratitude to Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, especially the Urban and Regional Planning Programme, FABU, and all involved parties for organizing such a valuable program. They acknowledged the immense knowledge gained, the strengthened professional connections, and the inspiration gathered from the technical colloquium and site visits.
The successful collaboration between the JTS and UTM, combined with the enriching experiences in Johor, serves as a testament to the shared commitment to promoting sustainable development and advancing the field of urban planning. The delegation returned to Sarawak with newfound enthusiasm, ready to embrace innovative strategies and contribute to the state’s urban growth.
Prepared by:
Ts Gs Dr Noradila Rusli