A new chapter in Wawasan Open University’s (WOU) East Malaysia journey began as WOU formalised a strategic collaboration with FAME International College (FAME) — a partnership set to widen access to quality postgraduate education for working adults across Sarawak.

The agreement, signed at FAME’s campus in Kuching, Sarawak on 5 March 2026, brings together WOU’s digital learning expertise and FAME’s strong local presence and support network.

Representing WOU, Chief Commercial Officer Justin Chong signed on behalf of the University, while FAME was represented by its Chief Executive Officer, David Chew. The ceremony was witnessed by members of Kuching’s education community, including secondary school representatives, education agents and invited guests.

A New Chapter Begins: Justin Chong (second from right) and David Chew (second from left) mark the new collaboration with a cordial exchange, as Clement Justus Gomez, Acting Head of WOU’s Kuching Office, and Liew Yu Sun, Head of Academic at FAME, look on. Photo courtesy of FAME

Under the agreement, FAME will support student recruitment efforts and provide on-the-ground academic guidance for two of WOU’s postgraduate programmes — the Master of Business Administration and Master in Data Science. Both programmes are delivered fully online by WOU’s experienced academics through its robust e-learning platform.

The strategic partnership establishes a blended support model that combines the flexibility of online learning with localised academic support services. This enables Sarawakian professionals to pursue recognised postgraduate qualiWfications while remaining close to their families and workplaces.

In his address, Chong highlighted WOU’s long-standing commitment to serving working adults in East Malaysia.

Chong reaffirms WOU’s focus on growing postgraduate pathways across Sarawak. Photo courtesy of FAME

“Since its establishment in 2006, WOU has supported more than 30,000 learners nationwide, including over 2,500 from East Malaysia. Over 630 graduates from Sarawak and Sabah have completed their qualifications with WOU, joining a global alumni network of nearly 10,000 professionals across sectors ranging from semiconductors and oil and gas to healthcare, logistics and education.

“As the preferred learning partner for working adults, WOU places strong emphasis on industry-responsive education and employer-driven talent development,” he added, highlighting the University’s modular pathways, stackable microcredentials and recognition of prior experiential learning that support career advancement.

Reinforcing FAME’s 27-year commitment to equipping graduates with business acumen, digital competencies and an entrepreneurial mindset, Chew described the collaboration as a meaningful progression pathway for Sarawakians.

With academic guidance and local support from FAME, students will never be alone in their learning journey,” says Chew. Photo courtesy of FAME

“This collaboration creates new opportunities for all Sarawakians — especially working adults who are already in the marketplace — to upgrade themselves, enhance their qualifications, and remain competitive in a fast-changing economy. It is about widening access to postgraduate education. And it is about building a stronger, more skilled workforce for the future of our state,” he underscored.

FAME staff, students, and Kuching’s education community came together for the MoA signing. Photo courtesy of FAME

With this partnership, WOU strengthens its footprint in East Malaysia — not just as a digital university, but as a committed learning partner working alongside local institutions to build a resilient, future-ready workforce.