Kuching, 13 January 2025 – Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) and RCERT Sdn Bhd signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) at the Grand Margherita Hotel, marking a significant milestone in the advancement of therapeutic medicine. This collaboration establishes the first industry-university partnership in a medical research laboratory fully sponsored by industry partners in UNIMAS.
The MOA was signed by Professor Dr. Ahmad Hata bin Rasit, Vice Chancellor of UNIMAS, and Dato’ Seri Dr. Chen Chaw Min, Chairman of RCERT Sdn Bhd. Attendees included Professor Dr. Asri bin Said, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences (FMHS); Professor Madya Dr. Tan Cheng Siang, Director of the Therapeutic Research Centre (TRC); Professor Madya Dr. Isabel Fong Lim; Professor Dr. Lo May Chiun; Encik Mohd Husaini bin Noorjaya Chew, Special Officer to the Vice Chancellor; Dr. Lim Chin Seng, Board Member of RCERT; and representatives from both organizations.
The partnership aims to facilitate the transfer of technical expertise in the development, engineering, and clinical applications of cellular therapy. The initiative will focus on advancing medical research and innovation, with a special emphasis on improving healthcare outcomes for cancer patients in the region.
The collaboration highlights a strategic approach to integrating industry expertise with academic resources, positioning UNIMAS as a player in research and development in therapeutic medicine. It is expected to enhance the university’s capacity for impactful research, particularly through the Therapeutic Research Centre.
The partnership also acknowledges the planning and coordination efforts that began in March 2024, involving close collaboration between the university leadership, faculty members, and industry stakeholders. This agreement reflects a shared commitment to leveraging biotechnology advancements to address critical healthcare challenges.
The ceremony concluded with a group photo of the dignitaries and representatives, symbolizing the unified vision to revolutionise healthcare through collaborative efforts. HH
