My personal and professional journey has taken me to various destinations and positions. I spent nine years immersed in the primary forests of Borneo as a Ph.D. student and Postdoctoral Fellow. Following that, I spent a year in the vibrant city of Berlin, known for its museums, as a Professor and in 2019, I have returned to Sibu, Sarawak in Malaysia. Currently, I serve as an Associate Professor and Head of the Advanced Centre for Sustainable Socio-Economic and Technological Development (ASSET) in the School of Computing and Creative Media at the University of Technology Sarawak.
Relationship, Engagement, and Collaboration
At the core of my research approach lies a deep understanding of the importance of building strong relationships, fostering meaningful engagement, and promoting collaboration. Successful research outcomes are best achieved through open dialogue, active participation, and shared decision-making among all stakeholders involved. By prioritizing relationships, engagement, and collaboration, a commitment is made to creating inclusive spaces that facilitate the expression, respect, and integration of diverse perspectives into the research process.
Situatedness and Positionality
Acknowledging the significance of situatedness and positionality in shaping research practices and outcomes, a recognition is held that knowledge is inherently situated within specific social, cultural, historical and indigenous contexts. A conscious effort is made to understand and critically reflect upon the my own positionality. By embracing an awareness of power dynamics, biases, and perspectives, my approach seeks to be characterized by humility, sensitivity, and an appreciation of the complex interplay between context and knowledge production.
Self-consciousness and Reflection
Reflexivity assumes a pivotal role in this research approach. Embracing an ongoing process of self-reflection and critical examination, the researcher continually questions and challenges assumptions, biases, and perspectives. This commitment to reflexivity ensures that the research remains responsive to the evolving needs and aspirations of the communities and individuals involved. By engaging in reflexivity, the aim is to navigate the complexities of interdisciplinary research, fostering an environment of learning and growth throughout the research journey.