Welcome to the Borneo Research Centre (BORC)

The Borneo Research Centre (BORC) was established to serve as a dedicated research hub and reference point for studies related to Borneo. Unlike other research centres in the region, BORC places a strong emphasis on the built environment, with a particular focus on the conservation of heritage buildings and structures.

Our research extends beyond traditional studies, integrating Industry 4.0 (IR 4.0) technologies into built environment projects. A notable example is our UTS Smart Home initiative, supported by an internal grant. Alongside this, we continue to be actively involved in conservation efforts, including the restoration of mosques, forts, and the Lau King Howe Hospital Museum in Sibu. In collaboration with the School of Computing and Creative Media (SCM), we are working on digitizing the museum’s displays to enhance accessibility and historical preservation.

Expanding Research through a Transdisciplinary Approach

While built environment studies remain at the core of BORC, our research adopts a transdisciplinary approach, reflecting the diverse expertise of our members. Key initiatives include:

• Indigenous Knowledge and Cultural Documentation – In partnership with Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka (DBP) Sarawak, we are engaged in research on indigenous knowledge, as well as the documentation of cultural heritage and languages.
• Regional Collaboration – Our network extends beyond Malaysia. We previously collaborated with Universitas Tanjungpura (UNTAN) in Kalimantan for InHerit 2021, and we are now working with Universiti Teknologi Brunei to co-organize InHerit 2025, fostering broader regional participation in research and training.
• Conservation and Community Engagement – BORC is collaborating with Trisakti University on conservation projects, engaging both students and local communities under a formal Memorandum of Agreement (MoA).
• International Partnerships – As a partnering university with ICOMOS 2026, BORC strengthens its role in international heritage conservation research and policy initiatives.
• Affordable Housing Research – With support from Yayasan Sarawak, we are conducting research on sustainable and affordable housing solutions.
• Publication Initiatives – BORC is working with Pustaka Sarawak to publish research and materials that preserve and promote knowledge on Borneo.
• Creative and Digital Heritage Projects – In collaboration with Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka, we are developing an animated series based on Borneo folklore, blending traditional storytelling with digital innovation.

Our Aspiration: Becoming a Centre of Excellence

BORC aims to be recognized as a Centre of Excellence (COE) in research related to Borneo. To achieve this, we are strengthening our research, collaborations, publications, and training programs to meet the necessary standards. Our vision is to establish BORC as the leading reference point for scholars, researchers, and practitioners exploring the rich cultural and environmental heritage of Borneo.

We welcome collaboration opportunities and look forward to impactful partnerships that contribute to the sustainable development and preservation of Borneo’s legacy.