Academia Helps Government Achieve Biotechnology Policy

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WEDNESDAY, 27 JANUARY – Faculty of Engineering (FKJ), Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) in collaboration with UMS Investment Holdings Sdn. Bhd. (Uinvest) today hosted the International Seminar on Bioprocess Engineering (BPE) at The Klagan Regency, 1Borneo, Kota Kinabalu.

In his opening speech, Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI), Datuk Seri Panglima Wilfred Madius Tangau said the government’s recognition on the potential of the biotechnology sector led to the formulation of the new policy outlining the comprehensive measures to consistent growth sector.

“The third phase of the National Biotechnology Policy (NBP) focuses on the consolidation of strength and capabilities in technology development, development of expertise and strength in discovery and development of drugs, creating at least 20 Malaysian global biotechnology companies to spearhead the process of value creation and growth of the industry; and promote the ‘BioNexus Malaysia’ brand to make Malaysia a global hub, taking advantage of the strengths, capabilities and expertise,” he said.

His speech was read by the Political Secretary of MOSTI, Joisin Romut.

Datuk Seri Madius said, academics in this country play a role in helping the government to achieve the NBP through the organisation of seminars to showcase the synergy between industry and the academic world through the knowledge, ideas and commercial opportunities that benefit both parties.

Earlier, Vice-Chancellor UMS, Professor Datuk Dr. Mohd. Harun Abdullah said, in the area of commercialisation and marketing of products, collaboration with industry would improve a number of methods such as joint venture, partnership specialists and  high-tech facilities and equity participation.

“Scientists and engineers from universities and research institutions will be given the opportunity to participate in the management and marketing of intellectual property,” he said.

He was represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Academic and International UMS, Professor Dr. D Kamarudin D Mudin.

A total of 15 modules will be presented by industry and researchers from local and foreign universities at the four-day seminar. – (fl)

Photo: Kassim Utudiki