MUM & IKM MoU - Shaping the Future of Chemistry

From left: Professor Qasim Ayub (Deputy Head of School (Research)), Associate Professor Song Keang Peng (Deputy Head of School (Education)), Professor Shaun Lee Wen Huey (Head of School of Pharmacy), Dr Ken Yeong Keng Yoon (Associate Head of School (External Engagement and Enterprising)), Professor Stephen Boyle (Vice President (Education)), Professor Emily Goh Joo Kheng (Head of School of Science), Datuk ChM Dr Soon Ting Kueh (President, Institut Kimia Malaysia), ChM Dr Yang Farina Abdul Aziz (Vice President, Institut Kimia Malaysia), Dato' ChM Dr Yew Chong Hooi (Honorary Assistant Treasurer, Institut Kimia Malaysia), ChM Dr Ho Chee Cheong (Council Member, Institut Kimia Malaysia), ChM Dr Aqeel Saravanan (Executive Director, Institut Kimia Malaysia), and Associate Professor Anton Dolzhenko (Discipline Head of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, School of Pharmacy).

Monash University Malaysia (MUM) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Institut Kimia Malaysia (IKM), also known as the Malaysian Institute of Chemistry, on 8 August 2025. IKM, established under the Chemists Act 1975 and governed by MOSTI, advances the chemistry profession in Malaysia by setting standards and supporting chemists nationwide. This MoU marks a significant step forward in advancing the chemistry field through education, research, and industry engagement. The partnership aims to bridge academia and industry while enhancing public understanding of chemistry and related sciences. The MoU outlines a wide range of initiatives, including professional development programs, joint research projects, and public outreach efforts to promote innovation and growth in chemistry. Key activities include facilitating industrial visits, developing internship and mentorship programs, and organizing educational workshops to enhance public understanding of the discipline.

In her welcoming speech, Professor Emily Goh Joo Kheng, Head of School, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, stating that it provides valuable opportunities for students and staff to engage with industry professionals and keep pace with developments in the field. She also briefly introduced the research capabilities of the School, especially in chemistry and advocated for close collaboration between both parties to promote chemical sciences to the community.

Datuk ChM Dr Soon Ting Kueh (President of IKM) shares insights on the partnership during the MoU signing ceremony.

Datuk ChM Dr Soon Ting Kueh, President of IKM, highlighted the importance of aligning academic research with industry needs and praised the initiative’s focus on knowledge exchange and joint-organisation of events. Meanwhile, Professor Stephen Boyle, Vice President (Education), in his opening speech highlighted the ongoing and planned initiatives such as educational development, chemical outreach programmes, and more.

Professor Stephen Boyle (Vice President (Education)) and Datuk ChM Dr Soon Ting Kueh (President of IKM) hold the commemorative plaque, joined by Professor Emily Goh Joo Kheng (Head of School of Science) and ChM Dr Yang Farina Abdul Aziz (Vice President, Institut Kimia Malaysia) following the MoU signing ceremony.

The MoU, effective for a period of five years, sets the foundation for long-term collaboration between two respected institutions with a shared focus on advancing scientific excellence in chemistry in the broadest sense. It opens doors for future initiatives in policy advocacy, sustainable practices, and technological innovation within the chemical sector. The event concluded with a tour of the laboratories at the School of Science and the School of Pharmacy, reflecting a mutual commitment to hands-on research, innovation, and academic excellence.