USM PENANG, 25 August 2022 – The Research and Innovation (R&I) Division of Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) is moving forward in bringing the university to the next level through their niche area, which is in ‘Research and Innovation’.

This was mentioned by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor of R&I, Professor Dato’ Ir. Dr. Abdul Rahman Mohamed during his strategy sharing session with the top management of Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM) during their visit to USM today.

According to Abdul Rahman, the divisions that helped a lot for this achievement consists of the Research Creativity and Management Office (RCMO), Division of Industry and Community Network (BJIM) and Centre for Innovation and Consultation (CIC).

The R&I strategic objectives are planned to enhance the research activities at USM by intensifying, increasing, and improving the quality and the value.

“Aside from that, the supporting ecosystem needs to ensure that other elements involved are all in place, including individuals who are skillful, resourceful and relevant; talent scouting activities are done; focus are given in niche areas; close-knit work culture; continuous research development, innovation, commercialisation and economic activities; where all these need to play a big role towards realising the achievements,” he said in front of some 120 in the audience at the USM Dewan Persidangan Universiti (DPU).

Moreover he said, in aligning with the National Development Plan and agenda, impactful contribution and entrepreneurship are also part of the succession plan to bring USM forward in championing these strategic objectives.

“Achieving global prominence by addressing global challenges, sustainable development goals, reputation, position ranking, being eminent, and to be a world-class university are the key points for a good institution to excel in research,” he said.

Abdul Rahman also shared on the best recruitment process and the need to get the ‘right’ person into important positions in the divisions in order to ensure the best output in the near future.

USM continues to enhance its research edge and create new opportunities to help humanity, by establishing translational research centres that will be working towards achieving scientific breakthroughs and creating new technology platforms in order to provide people-focused solutions.

Only then can the University be considered relevant to the needs of the society and communities. In conducting research, USM has taken its own unique approach.

It emphasises on creating an impact to society by creating sustainable research products that are affordable and accessible to the poor and needy.

Text: Hafiz Meah Ghouse Meah/Photo: Mohd Fairus Md Isa