Bandung Institute of Technology believes research is crucial in supporting sustainability and advancing knowledge. Research at the Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB) is fundamental for generating innovation, solutions, and positive contributions to society and the world. The institution understands that it can address complex challenges, advance technology, and improve the quality of life through research.
In support of sustainability in the digital transformation field, the Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB) has collaborated with the Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia (ERIA) in digital transformation and sustainable economic growth in the ASEAN and East Asia region. This collaboration is marked by the signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between ERIA and ITB, along with several universities in ASEAN. The signing took place at Roppongi Academihils, Tokyo, Japan.
ERIA is a research institution focused on trade and investment, energy resilience, climate change, environmental issues, digital economy, innovation, entrepreneurship, food security, and healthcare. In digital transformation, ITB and ERIA work together to identify opportunities and challenges arising from the progress of information and communication technology. Joint research is conducted to explore the potential implementation of digital technology in various economic sectors, including industry, education, health, and infrastructure.
ITB’s Rector, Prof Reini Wirahadikusumah, PhD, directly signed the agreement with representatives from Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, ERIA, and other relevant parties. The Minister of METI Japan, Mr Ken Saito, witnessed the signing.
The collaboration aligns with the significant digital transformation in the ASEAN and East Asia region that impacts economic growth. Therefore, enhancing the digital ecosystem is necessary to promote progress and entrepreneurial opportunities in the digital realm.
Collaboration is key for an institution to develop and advance itself, positively impacting society and its environment. The collaboration between ITB and ERIA is an example of how universities can support regional development and global sustainability through research and cross-border collaboration.
Further, several educational institutions in the Asia-Pacific region emphasise the importance of collaboration with other educational institutions in accelerating digital transformation as well. For instance, Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU) collaborated with the Chinese Manufacturers’ Association of Hong Kong (CMA) to drive innovation and technology development in Hong Kong, focusing on advancing green and life science technologies.
The collaboration involves sharing cutting-edge technological updates from the research community and dynamic startups. It extends beyond academia, actively exploring opportunities for business matching, commercialisation, and collaborative research initiatives. The partnership envisioned engagements in green finance, carbon neutrality, biotechnology, property technology, and sustainability.
Additionally, Singapore encouraged collaboration with academic institutions. The Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR) collaborates with seven local Institutes of Higher Learning (IHLs) to enhance robotics education. The partnership formalised through an MoU, aims to align learning outcomes to ensure students have essential knowledge and skills for the evolving robotics landscape.
Professor Quek Tong Boon’s collaboration focuses on cultivating a workforce adept in the Robot Operating System (ROS), which is crucial in robotics development. The initiative, managed by ROS-Industrial Consortium Asia Pacific, addresses industry demands, facilitates collaboration, and establishes a standardised curriculum to ensure graduates possess baseline competency and meet employers’ expectations in the dynamic field of robotics.
Collaboration and research create a solid foundation for innovation and progress in various fields. Focusing on technological development collaboration between academic institutions and industries is crucial for pioneering a sustainable future. Through joint efforts, in-depth research can lead to a deeper understanding of cutting-edge technology, accelerate development processes, and solve complex challenges.
In this context, ERIA and ITB demonstrate their commitment to gaining a deeper understanding of the impact of digital transformation on economic growth and how technology can be applied sustainably. They create an environment where research can catalyse positive change by involving stakeholders from various sectors, including academia, industry, and government.
