Friday, 18^th October 2024. In a key initiative to advance education and strengthen industry-academia collaboration, Muara Port Company Sdn. Bhd. (MPC) and the School of Business and Economics at Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBDSBE) embarked on a five-day research visit to Guangxi, China, from October 9 to 13, 2024. This partnership aimed to enhance leadership capabilities, build industrial ties, and provide students with valuable real-world experience. The delegation included approximately sixteen MPC staff members, led by CEO Mr. Wei Jinfeng, along with eight postgraduate students from UBDSBE's MBA program. The academic team was led by Deputy Deans Dr. Wardah Azimah Sumardi (Academic and Student Affairs) and Dr. Thuraya Farhana Said (Engagement and Partnerships).

This visit aligned with UBDSBE’s MBA program goals, focusing on developing modern leadership skills, expanding industry knowledge, and bridging the gap between theory and practical application. Participants gained direct exposure to international port operations, manufacturing processes, research and development activities, and the broader business ecosystem in Guangxi. The schedule included visits to the Guangxi International Automated Port, the 80MWp Fish-Light Complementary Photovoltaic Power Generation Project, and leading academic institutions such as Guangxi University and Beibu Gulf University. These activities offered valuable insights into logistics, technology, port operations, and business best practices.

Team Building at Green Mango Camp Site

During a team-building event at the Green Mango Camp Site, primarily owned by Beibu Gulf Holding, participants took part in a series of well-planned mini-games that promoted teamwork and friendship. "What began as a group of strangers quickly turned into a united team," said Wan Syiffawiaam Alya’a Farhah Binti Zulkiflee. The activities facilitated interaction and strengthened bonds, fostering a fun environment where participants could connect with the MPC team.

Research Initiatives at Beibu Gulf University

At the Green Mango Camp Site, largely owned by Beibu, participants engaged in a series of well-planned mini games designed to build camaraderie. “What began as a group of strangers soon evolved into a tightly-knit team,” shared Wan Syiffawiaam Alya’a Farhah Binti Zulkiflee. The activities encouraged interaction and strengthened relationships, creating a lively and fun atmosphere for participants to connect with the MPC team.

Innovative Solar Solutions

Chong Lu Wee shared his observations from the 80MWp solar farm visit, highlighting its swift construction and impressive efficiency. "This project underscored long-term sustainability, with the solar panels maintaining 80% efficiency throughout their lifespan," he noted. He also pointed out the innovative integration of aquaculture with solar energy production, which optimized land use while promoting both environmental and economic sustainability. Chong suggested that Brunei could adopt similar technologies to boost its renewable energy capacity and strengthen food security.

MPC, a joint venture between the Government of Brunei Darussalam and Guangxi Beibu Gulf International Port Group, played a key role in regional development and port management. Universiti Brunei Darussalam School of Business and Economics (UBDSBE) was dedicated to delivering quality education and nurturing future leaders. This collaboration enhanced experiential learning opportunities and opened avenues for future research, training, and industrial engagement.

Mr. Wei Jinfeng emphasized the significance of the visit, describing it as an essential platform for developing high-quality human capital, which was crucial for achieving the national goals outlined in Wawasan Brunei 2035. He highlighted Guangxi's strategic role as a rapidly growing hub for international trade and port management, making this visit a prime opportunity to gain deeper insights into advancements in logistics and infrastructure.

This research visit built on the success of previous partnerships between MPC and Universiti Brunei Darussalam, reflecting their shared commitment to driving innovation and fostering development that paved the way for future collaborations in research, training, and team-building activities.