USM PENANG, 30 April 2026 – Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) continues to strengthen its position as a leading research university with the launch of the Integrated Laboratories (iLab), a strategic initiative aimed at enhancing the efficiency and quality of research at the USM Main Campus.

The event also celebrated the successful acquisition of research infrastructure under the Twelfth Malaysia Plan (12MP) amounting to RM58 million, reflecting the university’s commitment to advancing its high-impact research agenda.

Of the total amount, RM55 million was allocated for the purchase and replacement of research equipment, while a further RM3 million was allocated for the development of the Integrated Laboratories.

In his officiating speech, USM Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dato' Seri Ir. Dr. Abdul Rahman Mohamed said that the Integrated Laboratory represents a significant step in transforming the university’s approach to research management and implementation.

“The development of the Integrated Laboratories is a high-impact strategic initiative that transforms the approach to analysis and testing operations towards a more centralised, efficient, and high-standard system,” he said.

Abdul Rahman also emphasised that the facility would enhance the university’s research capabilities and strengthen USM’s reputation at the global level.

“The procurement process involved 17 Centres of Responsibility (PTJ) through various methods, including tenders and quotations, and covered 212 units of research equipment with a total expenditure of approximately RM51.34 million,” he added.

He further noted that the facility is expected to strengthen the university’s research ecosystem and support the production of high-quality research that would benefit communities and industries.

Meanwhile, USM Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research and Innovation, Professor Dr. Habibah A Wahab, described the Integrated Laboratories initiative as an important platform for supporting interdisciplinary research.

“The Integrated Laboratories provide shared facilities that can be utilised collectively, thereby reducing duplication of resources and improving the efficiency of equipment management,” she explained.

She also added that the facility creates opportunities for collaboration across multiple disciplines to produce research that is more relevant to current needs.

The launch ceremony was held to commemorate the implementation of the Integrated Laboratories as a strategic initiative to strengthen the university’s research ecosystem, while also recognising the acquisition of research infrastructure under the 12MP that supports research excellence and competitiveness at the Main Campus.

With its state-of-the-art facilities and more structured management system, iLab is expected to serve as a catalyst for innovation, intellectual property generation, and the strengthening of strategic collaborative networks with industry and international partners.

Also present at the ceremony were Deputy Vice-Chancellor Industry and Community Network, Professor Dr. Azlan Amran; Coordinator of the Integrated Laboratories Management Office, Ts. Rusidah Mat Yatim; Director of the Department of Development and Facilities Management, Mohd Salmi Ismail; as well as the university’s key officers.

Original Text: Integrated Laboratories (iLab) Management Office, USM/Translation: Mazlan Hanafi Basharudin/Photo: Mohd Fairus Md Isa