Ankara: i-CATS University College (i-CATS) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Middle East Technical University (METU), Trkiye, to drive global collaboration in aerospace and education. i-CATS, a Sarawak State-owned university, in a statement said through the partnership, both institutions will collaborate in joint research and innovation projects in aerospace and related disciplines, exchange programmes to foster cross-cultural learning and academic mobility, professional training and development for staff and students, and industry-driven initiatives aligned with Malaysia’s and Trkiye’s strategic priorities.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the MoU signing ceremony was held in conjunction with the 13th Ankara International Aerospace Conference (AIAC’25), hosted by METU from Sept 17 to 19. i-CATS also participated in the conference through the presentation of a paper by its Faculty of Aerospace Engineering. i-CATS Board of Directors chairman Tan Sri Abdul Aziz Husain said the MoU with METU is not only a symbol of cooperation but also a catalyst for transforming Sarawak into a powerhouse of high-technology education and innovation.

He emphasized that through this partnership, students and researchers will gain global exposure and expertise, strengthening Sarawak’s future as a hub of excellence. Additionally, i-CATS vice-chancellor Prof Emeritus Datuk Dr Mohamad Kadim Suaidi stated that the collaboration laid the foundation for impactful research, global talent mobility, and industry collaboration that would elevate Sarawak’s role in the knowledge economy.

METU vice president Prof Dr Feride Pinar Acar remarked that the partnership strengthened both institutions’ shared mission to cultivate innovation, talent, and knowledge that would have a lasting impact not only in Trkiye and Sarawak but also globally.