Strengthening Regional Collaboration: CAMS and IPB University Deepen Marine Science Partnerships Across ASEAN
The China–ASEAN College of Marine Sciences (CAMS), Xiamen University Malaysia (XMUM), has strengthened its academic and research collaborations with the Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences, IPB University, Indonesia, through a series of joint initiatives held across both countries throughout 2025.
These activities — ranging from guest lectures and symposium sessions to student exchanges and research collaborations — reflect the shared vision of both institutions in nurturing future marine scientists and advancing regional cooperation for sustainable ocean research.
IPB University Speaker at XMAS 2025: ASEAN Collaboration for a Sustainable Future
The partnership between CAMS and IPB University took an early stride in January 2025, when Assoc. Prof. Dr. Kustiariyah Tarman from IPB University was invited as a guest speaker at the Xiamen Marine Annual Symposium (XMAS 2025) hosted by State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science, Xiamen University (MEL).
She presented her research during the session “Research Collaborations in the ASEAN Region: Sustainability of Marine Bioresources and Environments under Climate Change,” organized by CAMS to promote regional dialogue and interdisciplinary cooperation among ASEAN marine scientists.
Her participation highlighted IPB’s leading research in marine biotechnology and reinforced the long-standing partnership between CAMS and IPB University in advancing marine sustainability and climate resilience across the region.
Ocean Scouts: A Summer Course in the Seribu Islands, Indonesia
In July 2025, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ng Wei Lun from CAMS was invited by the Department of Aquatic Product Technology, Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences, IPB University, to deliver lectures during the summer course titled “Ocean Scouts: Exploring Aquatic Flora and Local Cultures in the Seribu Islands, Indonesia.”
The program began with online lectures on marine biodiversity and biotechnology, followed by a four-day immersive field experience on Pulau Pari and Pulau Kongsi, two pristine islands in the Seribu Islands near Jakarta.
“I was truly blown away by the serene beauty of these islands,” said Dr. Ng. “In class, we often discuss how coral reefs, seagrasses, and mangroves form a powerful trio to support biodiversity and protect shorelines. But this was my first time witnessing all three ecosystems side by side on a single beach — a truly humbling and unforgettable experience.”
Through this engagement, Dr. Ng shared his expertise on mangrove biodiversity and biotechnology, while gaining valuable insights into Indonesia’s marine conservation and education efforts.
CAMS Postgraduate Student Shines at ICMMBT 2025, Yogyakarta
Shortly after, CAMS was once again represented at an IPB-affiliated event whenMSc Marine Biotechnology student Ms. Ekaterina Efimova (Kate) participated in the 5th International Conference on Integrated Coastal Management and Marine Biotechnology (ICMMBT 2025), held on 30–31 July 2025 at the Royal Ambarrukmo Yogyakarta, Indonesia.
Themed “Blue Food Nexus: Harnessing Solutions for Global Food Security and Ocean Health,” the conference brought together regional experts to discuss integrated coastal management, marine biotechnology, blue carbon, and sustainable aquaculture.
Kate presented her research titled “Diversity of Endophytic Fungi in Mangroves Using Metagenomics” — part of her master’s project under the supervision of Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ng Wei Lun — and won the Best Student Presenter Award.
“One of the greatest rewards as an educator is witnessing your students grow and thrive,” said Dr. Ng. “Kate started as a shy, reserved student who struggled to present her research progress. Today, she speaks with confidence and clarity — a true testament to her growth and dedication.”
IPB University Visits Malaysia for Joint Activities and R/V Tan Kah Kee Program
From 30 August to 2 September 2025, CAMShosted a delegation from IPB University in conjunction with the 2025 XMU@Sea Research Vessel Tan Kah Kee (R/V TKK) Leg III–IV exchange and summer course program.
The IPB delegation travelled aboard the R/V Tan Kah Kee from Indonesia to Malaysia as part of the XMU@Sea program before joining a series of academic and laboratory activities organized by CAMS at XMUM.
The visit began with a welcoming session and mock signing of an MoU between both institutions, represented by Prof. Dr. Wang Huiqiong (Assistant President of XMUM) and Prof. Dr. Luky Adrianto (Director, International Research Institute for Maritime, Ocean and Fisheries, IPB University). The event symbolized a mutual commitment to strengthening cooperation in marine science education and research.
During the two-day visit, faculty members shared research presentations and held a roundtable discussion on future collaboration in ocean science, marine biotechnology, and ecosystem management. Meanwhile, students took part in hands-on laboratory activities, including microscopy work, resin embedding demonstrations, and specimen observation in CAMS’ teaching laboratories.
“This visit has deepened our partnership with IPB University and fostered valuable exchanges between our academic communities,” said Prof. Dr. Luo Yawei, Deputy Dean of CAMS. “We look forward to expanding joint research and training programs in the coming years.”
Charting the Course Ahead
Through these multiple exchanges — from classroom to field, from Malaysia to Indonesia — CAMS and IPB University continue to build a strong foundation for regional collaboration in marine science education, research, and capacity building.
Together, both institutions remain committed to nurturing young marine scientists, sharing knowledge, and addressing the pressing environmental challenges facing our shared oceans. 🌊🌏
“Our collaboration with IPB University exemplifies what ASEAN academic partnerships can achieve,” said Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ng Wei Lun. “By working together across borders, we’re empowering the next generation of scientists to protect our oceans and ensure a sustainable blue future.”