On October 14, 2024, in conjunction with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Malaysia and China, the Malaysia-China Life Sciences Research and Development Forum took place at Taylor’s University in Kuala Lumpur. The forum aimed to enhance collaboration and innovation in the life sciences sector between the two nations.

The event gathered over fifty experts and scholars from both Malaysia and China who are actively engaged in the life sciences field. Notable attendees included Datuk Lee Weng Chai, the Non-Executive Chairman of the Malaysian Bioeconomy Development Corporation, and former Deputy Minister of International Trade and Industry, Wang Jianmin, as well as representatives from six leading universities in Malaysia.

A significant highlight of the forum was a technical workshop led by Chinese experts, where Malaysian scholars had the opportunity to learn about a groundbreaking microfluidic droplet technology that has received global patents. During the workshop, Chinese scientists provided live demonstrations and practical guidance, earning high praise from their Malaysian counterparts for their exceptional research capabilities.

Throughout the forum, scholars from the six Malaysian universities presented dozens of research topics in the life sciences, expressing their eagerness to collaborate with Chinese partners. In response, Chinese representatives committed to supplying each participating university with the necessary qPCR equipment and consumables to support their research projects and enhance the research capabilities of graduate students.

This cooperation is expected to significantly advance the application of techniques in molecular biology and genetic research at Malaysian universities.