Collaborative efforts in healthcare and research
Monash University Malaysia and the Sarawak Infectious Disease Centre (SIDC) have formalised a significant partnership by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on 6 October 2023. This agreement marks the commencement of collaborative efforts in research and human capital development, specifically focusing on communicable and non-communicable diseases. The collaboration between SIDC, a subsidiary of the Sarawak Research and Development Council (SRDC), and Monash University Malaysia is poised to bring about transformative developments in several key areas, including indigenous health, digital health, disease and environmental surveillance, and natural product development.
The partnership aims to harness Monash University's wealth of expertise and resources to support research conducted by SIDC. The commitment to academic and research excellence includes annual support for PhD candidates from SIDC and joint research programs, including microbiome research.
The significance of this occasion was underscored by the presence of Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, the Premier of Sarawak, and Chairman of SRDC. His attendance at the document signing ceremony, which took place at Wisma Bapa Malaysia, symbolises the endorsement and support from the highest levels of government in Sarawak for this collaboration. It's a clear testament to the shared vision of advancing healthcare and research, and development in Sarawak and Malaysia.