USM would like to extend its gratitude for all the comments and concerns voiced in relation to the agreement with a certain company signed recently.

We truly appreciate the criticisms offered which we believe were given on the spirit of the love for USM and with the intention of ensuring that the university would always be on the right path.

In relation to the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), our focus was in fact on providing assistance in raising the competitiveness of the local industry in the long run, especially in the research on hydrochemical water innovation with the aim of optimising the local alternative sources. In short, it is a long-term innovation and entrepreneurial research of the university with the industry.

This move is in line with the role of the university in sharing its expertise and existing strength to strengthen the positioning of the local industries and entrepreneurs.

USM is not involved in the strategies of any business entities or industries that it collaborates with, including those at the international level.

USM has even taken the necessary steps to offer advices and views to any of its collaborating parties to ensure that any claims made should be verified and not to be made in a baseless manner.

MOHAMAD BIN ABDULLAH

Director, Media and Public Relations Centre

Universiti Sains Malaysia