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McDermott and Universiti Malaysia Sabah's Partnership for Talent Development

In an exciting development for education and industry collaboration, McDermott International, a leading engineering and construction solutions provider, has signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) with Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS). This partnership aims to cultivate local talent and bolster regional capabilities in Sabah, an important center for the energy sector in Malaysia.

The LOI establishes a comprehensive framework for long-term cooperation across four notable schools at UMS, including Computing and Informatics, Engineering, Science and Natural Resources, and Business, Economics and Accountancy. The collaboration is designed to provide students with practical experience through industrial placements, joint research projects, educational initiatives, and co-curricular development activities. These efforts will ultimately work towards creating a skilled workforce ready to meet the demands of the industry.

The agreement was formalized during the 2025 Energy Asia Conference and Exhibition held recently in Kuala Lumpur, and it has garnered support from the Malaysian Investment and Development Authority (MIDA), highlighting the commitment to fostering local content and talent within the country. Mahesh Swaminathan, McDermott's Senior Vice President for Subsea and Floating Facilities, emphasized the significance of this partnership, noting, “This partnership reflects our continued investment in Malaysia's future by supporting academic-industry collaboration and strengthening capabilities in Sabah.”

Furthermore, Mr. Sivasuriyamoorthy Sundara Raja, Deputy Chief Executive Officer at MIDA, echoed the sentiment by stating that this strategic collaboration aligns perfectly with Malaysia's ambitions to develop world-class talent in the fields of science and engineering. He commended the joint efforts of McDermott and UMS, which are set to empower the local workforce and create high-value job opportunities, thus reinforcing the national agenda of cultivating a knowledge-based economy.

Through such initiatives, McDermott and UMS are not just addressing immediate skill gaps but are also contributing to sustainable growth in the region. The focus on knowledge sharing, corporate social responsibility, research, and practical training indicates a collaborative commitment to driving innovation within Sabah’s energy sector. UMS Chairman, Ybhg. Datuk Seri Panglima Abd Rahman Dahlan, acknowledged the importance of bridging theoretical learning with real-world industry requirements, emphasizing that this partnership will nurture high-impact graduates well-equipped for their careers in the energy industry.

This collaboration represents a significant step forward for Sabah's role in the Malaysian economy, increasing its ability to contribute meaningfully to the energy sector’s evolution. As both organizations move forward, they will strive to align academic programs with the expectations of the industry, ensuring that students are not only prepared but are also highly competitive in an ever-evolving landscape.

About McDermott

As a premier provider of integrated engineering and construction solutions to the energy industry, McDermott has built a reputation for delivering innovative technologies that responsibly harness and transform global energy resources. With operations in over 54 countries, McDermott’s integrated approach has made it possible to execute various projects while actively training and preparing the workforce of tomorrow.

With over 30,000 employees and specialized marine construction vessels, McDermott continues to push the boundaries of energy infrastructure, supporting sustainable practices and empowering communities through responsible initiatives. Their commitment to fostering local talent while developing robust partnerships with leading educational institutions positions them as a pivotal player in advancing Malaysia’s energy sector.

In conclusion, the collaboration between McDermott and Universiti Malaysia Sabah stands as a testament to the potential of academic and industry partnerships in driving national growth and development initiatives. As they embark on this journey together, both parties are set to create lasting impacts that will ensure a skilled and resilient workforce ready to tackle the challenges of the future.