Nanyang Technological University (NTUSG) Library’s commitment to advancing open science and research data management extends well beyond Singapore’s borders.

In September 2025, several NTU librarians shared their expertise at two noteworthy events in Malaysia, demonstrating the collaborative spirit that drives progress in academic librarianship across the region.

These engagements highlight how knowledge sharing and cross-institutional partnerships are essential for building robust research support ecosystems.

Story #1: Advancing Open Science Leadership at ICOL2025 in Penang

Goh Su Nee and David Tan from NTU Library were invited as speakers and facilitators at the International Conference on Libraries (ICOL2025), held in Penang on 23-24 September 2025. The conference, attended by more than 250 participants, opened with a vibrant cultural performance. It featured diverse presentations on how libraries are adapting through digital transformation, inclusivity, and innovative use of spaces.

 

In her keynote address, Su Nee shared her reflections as an Open Science, Research Data Management, and Bibliometrics Librarian, emphasising the importance of agility, open-mindedness, and collaboration with stakeholders. She highlighted the value of leveraging intersections across research data management (RDM), open science, bibliometrics, and research integrity, while underscoring the need to build capabilities, taking pride in our work, and contributing back to the professional community.

 

“Identifying Research Data Management (RDM) Priorities for Your Institution” was held, attended by about 70 participants and facilitated by Su Nee and David. The seminar used a concise version of the Digital Curation Centre’s Research Infrastructure Self-Evaluation (RISE) Framework to help institutions assess their current RDM support and identify areas for future development. The session generated lively discussions, with participants actively engaging and posing thoughtful questions.

 

After the seminar, the NTU Librarians appeared as guests on the latest bi-monthly podcast hosted by Mohd Ikhwan Ismail, Head of the Research Data Management Division at Universiti Sains Malaysia. The hour-long conversation highlighted key initiatives driving best practices in Open Science and RDM and reflected on the challenges and exciting directions ahead for advancing research data support at NTU.

Story #2: Building Research Data Stewardship Capacity in Kuala Lumpur

The Universiti Malaya Open Science (UMOS) hosted the workshop “From Plan to Preservation: A Workshop on Research Data Stewardship” on 25 September 2025 in Kuala Lumpur. The one-day event, led by Yuyun W. Ishak and Zhang Shuxian from NTU Library, brought together nearly 30 enthusiastic participants—a vibrant mix of researchers, research administrators, and librarians, also known as Data Stewards. The Data Stewards are the drivers of UMOS’s initiatives and curators of research data.

 

The first half of the workshop focused on identifying gaps between Universiti Malaya’s RDM policy and current practices. Participants also carried out a self-assessment of their RDM services using the concise RISE framework from the Digital Curation Centre. The second half shifted to practical applications, highlighting the Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Reusable (FAIR) principles and the technical aspects of data curation.

Feedback from the participating Data Stewards was overwhelmingly positive. All participants reported that the workshop enhanced their understanding of RDM and FAIR practices and gave them skills they could apply directly in their work. Takeaways ranged from a “better understanding of FAIR principles” to an appreciation of the value of a Data Availability Statement.

 

Dr. Nurzatil Sharleeza binti Mat Jalaluddin, the organiser from UMOS, remarked that the “clear explanations and interactive approach made the session incredibly engaging and insightful”. The enthusiastic participation and positive feedback from attendees underscore the growing momentum for open science practices in the region.

Conclusion

The two stories exemplify NTU Library’s dedication to fostering regional collaboration in open science and research data management. Through keynote presentations, hands-on workshops, and knowledge-sharing sessions, our librarians contributed to capacity building across institutions whilst strengthening professional networks.

As we continue to navigate the evolving landscape of academic libraries, such cross-border partnerships remain vital for advancing sustainable research support services that benefit the entire scholarly community.

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Contributed by:
Yuyun W. Ishak
Senior Assistant Director, Lead (Institutional Repositories)
NTU Library

Goh Su Nee
Deputy Director (Open Science and Research Services)
NTU Library