By Prof. Madya Dr. Nor Aziati Abdul Hamid
From November 12 to 17, 2024, a delegation from Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (UTHM) embarked on a knowledge-exchange mission to Liuzhou Railway Vocational Technical College (LRVTC), Liuzhou, China. This visit, supported through the PKLI programme, aimed to explore advancements in railway technology, vocational education, and the city’s industrial prowess, ultimately seeking to strengthen collaborations and adopt innovative practices for Malaysia’s infrastructure projects like the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL). A total of 51 participants participated in the programme organised by MRL-CCC which involved higher education institutions such as UMPSA, UNIKL , Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin Polytechnic as well as TVET-based training centres such as the Department of Human Resources, ADTEC, ILP, Pahang Skills Development Centre and University College of Yayasan Pahang.
A Journey to the Heart of China’s Railway Hub
The visit commenced with an engaging experience of China’s high-speed rail network. Delegates travelled from Nanning to Liuzhou on a train that covered the 226 km distance in just under an hour, showcasing the efficiency and precision of China’s rail infrastructure. This journey not only set the tone for the technical exploration but also highlighted China’s commitment to connect urban and rural areas with world-class transportation systems.
Liuzhou itself, located in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and robust industrial economy. Known as the “City of Automobiles,” Liuzhou has evolved into a major industrial hub, particularly for automotive and railway sectors.
Insights into Railway Systems and Innovations
Lectures on Railway Technology
The delegation attended a series of lectures at LRVTC, delving into China’s extensive railway systems. One notable session is the comprehensive overview of China’s railway network, which spans over 150,000 kilometres, including 42,000 kilometres of high-speed rail. The insights were relevant to the ECRL project in Malaysia, as it underscored the importance of integrating advanced technologies like autonomous systems, artificial intelligence, and sustainable energy solutions into railway infrastructure.
Track Maintenance and Locomotive Systems
The delegates gained hands-on experience in LRVTC’s state-of-the-art facilities, including labs equipped with simulators and tools for track maintenance. The structured training model emphasised practical skills such as ultrasonic testing, alignment maintenance, and fishplate operations. Additionally, a course on locomotive systems covering propulsion mechanisms, braking technologies, and advancements in electric and hybrid locomotives was also held.
Such exposure is pivotal for updating academic curricula in Malaysia to include emerging railway technologies and maintenance practices, fostering a workforce ready to meet industry demands.
Industrial Excellence in Liuzhou
The Visit to the Industrial Museum
The highlight of the trip was the visit to Liuzhou’s Industrial Museum, which led the city’s transformation into an industrial powerhouse. The museum showcases innovations in railway manufacturing, automotive production, and green energy technologies. Displays of high-speed train models, electric vehicles, and cutting-edge machinery underscored Liuzhou’s role in advancing China’s industrial landscape.
For Malaysia, the museum emphasizes on sustainable transportation and integrated systems provided valuable lessons for projects like the ECRL. It also highlighted the potential for adopting renewable energy technologies in large-scale infrastructure.
Renewable Energy Developments
Liuzhou is also making strides in renewable energy, exemplified by its wind turbine and battery manufacturing industries. The city’s commitment to sustainability aligns with Malaysia’s goals of incorporating eco-friendly practices in development projects.
Educational and Collaborative Opportunities
The visit was concluded with discussions on fostering long-term collaboration between UTHM and LRVTC. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed, laying the foundation for joint programmes such as short courses on railway systems, dual-diploma programmes, and student’s mobility initiatives. These efforts aim to enhance cross-cultural learning and knowledge exchange, benefiting students and faculty alike.
Implications for Malaysia’s Development
The insights gained from this visit to Liuzhou have significant implications for Malaysia’s railway and industrial sectors. Key takeaways include:
- Technology Integration: Incorporating advanced railway technologies, such as high-speed systems and smart maintenance tools, can elevate Malaysia’s infrastructure standards.
- Curriculum Enhancement: Malaysian institutions can update their engineering and vocational programmes by adopting LRVTC’s comprehensive training models.
- Sustainability Practices: Lessons from Liuzhou’s renewable energy initiatives can guide Malaysia’s transition to greener infrastructure solutions.
- Industry Collaboration: Strengthened ties between UTHM and Liuzhou offer opportunities for research, training, and industrial partnerships.
The visit to Liuzhou was more than an educational endeavour; it was a glimpse into the future of transportation and industrial innovation. As Malaysia embarks on transformative projects like the ECRL, the knowledge shared by LRVTC and the industrial advancements witnessed in Liuzhou will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the nation’s infrastructure landscape. The collaboration between UTHM and LRVTC is a testament to the power of international partnerships in driving technological and economic progress.
