Following the dissolution of Malaysia's National Oceanography Directorate in 2016 and the absence of an endorsed National Ocean Policy, progress in oceanography and marine science research and development faced significant setbacks. The fragmentation of data management and research expertise further challenged Malaysia's standing and competitiveness in these crucial fields.
In response to these challenges, five prominent institutes joined forces to establish the Malaysia Ocean Research Alliance (MORA). This alliance serves as a pivotal national focal point for universities, fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing across Malaysia's academic landscape.
As we acknowledge the foundational contributions of the initial five institutions steering the inception of MORA, it is crucial to highlight that this alliance serves as a central focal point for universities across Malaysia. MORA extends a warm invitation, actively encouraging participation from academic institutions nationwide.
Founding Institutions of MORA: IOES UM, INOS UMT, CEMACS USM, BMRI UMS, and INOCEM IIUM
Group photo of attendees during the roundtable discussion about MORA at World Conference on Marine Biodiversity 2023 that was held in Penang
This alliance is envisioned as a pivotal platform uniting national ocean research efforts and coordinating impactful partnerships. It strives to integrate scientific solutions through strategic initiatives, enhancing collaboration among ocean research and education communities.
Looking forward, MORA aims to enhance its role as a collaborative hub by inviting participation from universities nationwide. MORA extends a warm invitation, actively encouraging researchers from academic institutions across the country to participate. By fostering a collaborative environment, MORA endeavors to create an inclusive platform that brings together diverse expertise and passion from universities throughout Malaysia.