USM PENANG, 14 April 2026 – Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) today warmly welcomed Professor Dr. Dar-Bin Shieh, Vice-President of National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU), Taiwan together with a distinguished delegation, during a courtesy visit to the USM campus.

The visit underscores the growing strategic partnership between USM and NYCU, particularly in interdisciplinary domains spanning biomedical sciences, microelectronics, and translational research.

Both institutions are committed to advancing next-generation biomedical innovation, building on the shared vision highlighted in the ongoing 2026 Taiwan–Malaysia Biomedical Forum.

Speaking during the welcoming session, USM Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dato’ Seri Ir. Dr. Abdul Rahman Mohamed, emphasised that this collaboration goes beyond a formal partnership, reflecting a shared commitment to harness complementary strengths in AI-driven healthcare, molecular diagnostics, bioengineering, chip-based innovation, and semiconductor technology for biomedical device applications.

“These synergies are poised to address emerging global health challenges while accelerating the translation of research into impactful clinical and industrial solutions, driven by innovation in semiconductor technology. The convergence of semiconductor and biomedical technologies will play a pivotal role in advancing next-generation medical device applications.”

“USM, through platforms such as the Institute for Research in Molecular Medicine (INFORMM) and Collaborative Microelectronic Design Excellence Centre (CEDEC), remains dedicated to fostering high-impact international collaborations,” he said. 

He added, “Partnerships with esteemed institutions like NYCU are seen as catalysts for meaningful research cooperation, talent exchange, and the strengthening of the Taiwan–Malaysia biomedical ecosystem.”

The Vice-Chancellor expressed confidence that the visit will deepen academic ties, open new avenues for joint initiatives, and lay the foundation for sustained long-term collaboration.

For the record, USM’s collaboration with NYCU began with the Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) signed in December 2024 between INFORMM and the College of Engineering Bioscience.

This partnership was further strengthened in mid-2025 through CEDEC’s collaboration with NYCU’s International College of Semiconductor Technology and the College of Engineering Bioscience, marking significant milestones in the Taiwan–Malaysia academic and research.

Among those present from USM were the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research and Innovation, Professor Dr. Habibah A Wahab; Director of Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Engineering Campus, Professor Ir. Dr. Mariatti Jaafar @ Mustapha; Director of INFORMM, Associate Professor Dr. Aziah Ismail; and Director of CEDEC, Professor Dr. Asrulnizam Abd Manaf.

Text: Tan Ewe Hoe/Photo: Mohd Fairus Md Isa