PRESS STATEMENT
For Immediate Release
KUALA LUMPUR, 3 March 2026: SIRIM, the leading industrial research and technology organisation in Malaysia, and Monash University Malaysia have formalised a strategic partnership through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) today. The collaboration marks a significant step toward advancing health and biomedical research, strengthening national scientific capabilities and developing future-ready talent. The partnership brings together SIRIM’s industrial research expertise and accredited laboratories with Monash University Malaysia’s academic leadership in health and medical sciences. Together, the institutions will focus on translating advanced research into practical applications that address industry needs and national healthcare priorities.
Under the agreement, the partnership will focus on three main areas:
A key focus of the partnership is the advancement of organ-on-chip (OOC) technology, which replicates human organ functions on microchips for drug testing and disease modelling. These human-relevant preclinical models improve predictive accuracy while reducing reliance on animal testing. SIRIM is currently developing the OOC Precision Medicine Lab, aiming to position Malaysia as a regional leader in this field. Through this partnership, both institutions aim to develop in-house OOC platforms, reducing reliance on imported technologies and enhancing national self-sufficiency in advanced biomedical tools.
The global OOC market reflects significant growth potential. In Malaysia, the market is projected to grow from USD 0.42 billion in 2025 to USD 1.91 billion by 2031, representing a compound annual growth rate of 29.2 per cent. This partnership positions both institutions to harness these opportunities by overcoming technological complexities through strong collaboration between research and industry.
The signing ceremony was held at Monash University Malaysia. SIRIM was represented by its Acting President and Group Chief Executive Officer, Nik Sazali Nik Hussin, while Monash University Malaysia was represented by its President and Pro Vice-Chancellor, Professor Emeritus Dato' Dr. Adeeba Kamarulzaman. The signing was witnessed by Tan Sri Ahmad Tajuddin Ali, Monash Board Member.
At the ceremony, Nik Sazali Nik Hussin emphasised that the MoU reflects a shared vision to drive innovation, nurture talent, and translate research into impactful solutions. By combining strengths with Monash University Malaysia, SIRIM is well positioned to accelerate scientific discovery and strengthen national research capacity.
“The partnership embodies a commitment to scientific excellence and meaningful industry engagement, advancing precision medicine and cultivating a globally competitive workforce,” he added.
Both parties view this collaboration as a strategic step toward strengthening Malaysia’s scientific ecosystem and promoting modern, ethical research practices. The MoU lays a strong foundation for future knowledge exchange and joint initiatives that will deliver meaningful benefits to the nation.
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ABOUT SIRIM Berhad
A wholly-owned company of the Malaysian Government under the Ministry of Investment, Trade & Industry. SIRIM Berhad is a leading organisation for technology and quality solutions specialising in: Industrial Research, Technology Development and Commercialisation; Certification, Testing and Inspection; Measurement and Calibration; Training; Standards Research and Development; Technology-based Entrepreneurship; and Design Advisory.
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Media Contact: Ariff Fahmy, Tel: 017 4637027 or email: fahmy@sirim.my
