Sharjah24: The Sharjah Academy for Astronomy, Space Sciences, and Technology (SAASST) at the University of Sharjah (UoS) hosted a Malaysian delegation from the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation (MOSTI) and from the Malaysian Space Agency (MYSA) to explore ways of promoting future cooperation between the two parties, as part of the academy's strategic plan of developing national and international partners for the development of the field of space and astronomy.

The visit program included introducing the university's various scientific and academic programs and its effort in research cooperation with various national and international institutions. In addition, a brief overview of the academy's departments, including the planetarium, scientific laboratories, optical and radio observatories, and the cosmic park, was given to the Malaysian delegation.

The delegation attended a planetarium show that simulates astronomy and space sciences through advanced technology and toured the scientific exhibitions that display the latest scientific theories of the universe's origin. Additionally, the delegation visited the Exhibition of the Universe in the Holy Qur'an, which narrates the formation and the evolution of the universe inspired by the verses of the Holy Qur'an.

During the visit, Prof. Maamar Bettayeb, Vice Chancellor for Research and Graduate Studies, welcomed the Malaysian delegation stressing the University of Sharjah's keenness to collaborate in scientific research and technological education. He added: "The university always welcomes cooperation and communication with national and international institutions."

Prof. Ilias Fernini, Deputy General Director for Research and Scientific Projects at the ‏academy, expressed his happiness over the Malaysian delegation visit, clarifying that the academy is seeking to spread the culture of astronomy and space sciences among all segments of society. He also emphasized the importance of this visit in reflecting the image of the United Arab Emirates and the academy in promoting the field.

The Honourable Dato' Sri Dr. Adham bin Baba, Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation, indicated that future cooperation with the academy in various fields of space would contribute to the development of the space industry and technician entity in Malaysia. The Honourable expressed his happiness visiting the Sharjah Academy for Astronomy, Space Sciences, and Technology.

Mr. Azlikamil bin Napiah, Director General of the Malaysian Space Agency, pointed out that the agency is looking forward to cooperating with the academy and its scientific facilities, particularly the planetarium. He also asserted that collaboration in scientific research would contribute to the development of the new generation, the technology, and the enhancement of astronomy and space education.