The forum was filled with highlights, offering participants a platform for high-level academic exchange and countless opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration. It also facilitated in-depth discussions on the latest research findings in life science and healthcare, as well as the potential for international cooperation. The event was co-organized by Dr. Sze Shin Low and Dr. Wai Siong Chai, with a warm welcome and opening speech delivered by Dr. Wai Siong Chai.

The expert team from the China Beacon Institute of UNNC shared cutting-edge insights across multiple fields. To officially kick-start the forum, Chair Prof. Michael Wormstone, the Head of the Research Centre for Life Science and Healthcare, presented an overview of the centre, followed by his work on improving eye health and exploring cutting-edge technologies and solutions in related fields. Prof. Learn Han Lee focused on discovering new beneficial microorganisms to pave the way for drug development. Prof. David Fengwei Xie investigated the physicochemical properties and health impacts of starch-based foods through the study of starch and its modifications. Associate Prof. Dr. Holger Husi integrated metabolomics, proteomics, genomics, and artificial intelligence to deepen the understanding of diseases and enhance healthcare outcomes through big data analysis. Assistant Prof. Dr. Imran Mahmood Khan shared his research on developing optical and electrochemical biosensors for rapid on-site detection of pathogens, toxins, and pesticides.

The expert team from the University of Nottingham Malaysia (UNM) also delivered impressive presentations. Associate Prof. Dr. Kenny Voon, the Director of the Signature Strength in Health and Wellbeing, focused on the “One Health” concept, highlighting the interconnections between humans, animals, and the environment. He also investigated the potential of non-human reovirus as a cancer vaccine, offering new avenues for cancer treatment. Prof. Sandy Loh, Head of the School of Biosciences and Chair of the Organization of Women in Science (OWIS) Malaysia, explored drug repurposing and biotech-inspired therapeutic and diagnostic approaches, including plant-based vaccines, tocotrienol-based combined cancer treatments, and aptamer innovations with the aim of contributing to more accessible health solutions and improved patient care in the future. Prof. Michelle Tan, Associate Dean of the Graduate School and Professor in the Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, introduced the development of portable, AI-integrated nanobiosensing technologies to enable early disease detection in remote areas, promoting global health equity and sustainability. Associate Prof. Dr. Chee-Mun Fang, the Programme Director of Biomedical Sciences, focused on therapeutics derived from medicinal plants, sustainable antimicrobials, and vaccine development to address immune disorders, cancer, and infections. He also emphasized the importance of promoting food safety by reducing the misuse of antibiotics. Additionally, industry leader Dr. Su Wen Lim, the Founding CEO of Oncode Scientific and Honorary Associate Professor at UNM, shared how Oncode delivers rapid, precise, and affordable cancer diagnostics integrated into clinical practice across Southeast Asia. By partnering with global pharmaceutical companies in companion diagnostics and clinical trials, Oncode helps advance precision oncology and expand patient access to targeted therapies.

The China-Malaysia Interdisciplinary Engagement Forum was not only an academic feast but also a valuable platform for advancing Sino-Malaysian research collaboration. It served as a space where ideas collide, and wisdom converges, collectively propelling the development of life science and healthcare, and contributing to the global health efforts. We look forward to deepening these connections and building lasting partnerships that translate research into real-world impact across borders.