A group of researchers focused on Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) from the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences (FPSK), Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS), recently held the “Mengenali AMR” program at Sekolah Kebangsaan (SK) Pekan and SK Piasau in Kota Belud.

According to Dr. Zulkhairul Naim Sidek Ahmad, Head of the Department of Medical Education at FPSK and Project Leader for AMR, the program aims to raise awareness about AMR among primary school students.

“This program is a continuation of activities conducted late last year, where 20 students from SK Pekan and SK Piasau were trained to become peer mentors to spread awareness about AMR.

“Medical research worldwide has shown that the primary cause of AMR is the improper use of antibiotics.

“Therefore, campaigns about AMR need to start as early as possible, so that society, especially the younger generation, becomes more aware and knowledgeable about AMR,” he explained.

Meanwhile, Nurhanah Idek, the Deputy Education Officer of the Kota Belud District, who officiated the program’s closing, expressed that the timing of the program was crucial.

“AMR is an increasingly alarming global health threat.

“Therefore, programs like this are highly beneficial to students and align with the national health agenda,” she said.

The two-day program saw the participation of 220 students from grades four to six from SK Pekan and SK Piasau.

For the record, AMR occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites being treated no longer respond to the medication used, causing infections to become more difficult to treat. This results in the need for stronger and more expensive antimicrobial drugs to cure the infection.

The strategic partnership between the Halal Services and Research Center (PPPH) under the Faculty of Food Science and Nutrition (FSMP) at Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) and the Halal Hub of the Sabah Islamic Religious Council (MUIS) is poised to contribute to the development of the halal hub in Sabah.

This was highlighted by PPPH Director, Dr. Noorakmar Abd Wahab, during his visit to the MUIS office, leading a UMS delegation for a courtesy call recently.

The UMS delegation, consisting of five members, was welcomed by representatives from the Sabah Halal Hub, led by MUIS Chief Executive Officer, Ramlan Awang Ali.

Dr. Noorakmar mentioned that the visit aimed to discuss collaboration opportunities between PPPH and the MUIS halal hub in halal-related services, particularly as PPPH is an accredited Halal Training Provider (PLH) by the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) in Sabah.

“PPPH is ready to play its role in providing necessary training and courses for food entrepreneurs, whether at the cottage, small and medium scale, or large enterprises.

“Therefore, this discussion marks the beginning of a fruitful and targeted strategic collaboration between both parties, continuing the Memorandum of Understanding previously signed between UMS and MUIS,” he said.

He also informed that several proposals related to research activities had been presented to MUIS, including the potential collaboration in organizing the Halal Symposium, which is expected to be held in August 2024 at Sutera Harbour, Kota Kinabalu.

“With the expertise at PPPH, joint research on halal analysis and knowledge can be carried out, providing valuable insights into the halal landscape that MUIS requires.

“Together, PPPH and MUIS can create a positive synergy to empower the industry and strengthen the halal ecosystem in Sabah,” he added.

Dr. Noorakmar also expressed appreciation to MUIS for its continuous support of PPPH in carrying out halal research and services.

“It is hoped that the ongoing collaboration between UMS and MUIS will benefit the state of Sabah in becoming a halal hub, particularly in producing food that is not only halal but also toyyiban (pure and wholesome),” he concluded.

Also present at the courtesy visit were FSMP Dean, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Hasmadi Mamat, and members of the halal research group, including Mohd Hazim Mohd Yusof, Dr. Nor Qhairul Izzreen Mohd Noor, and Dr. Yanty Noorzianna Abdul Manaf.

In a demonstration of international collaboration, the Faculty of Business, Economics, and Accountancy at Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) recently hosted a Mobility Exchange Initiative event, fostering connections between Huaqiao University and UMS.

The event, held at the Confucius Institute, brought together prominent figures from academia, commerce and religious research to explore potential avenues for cooperation.

Chaired by Prof Ts Dr Chong Khim Phin, director of the Confucius Institute at UMS, the event was graced by esteemed guests, including Datuk Frankie Liew, president of the Sabah China Chamber of Commerce (SCCC), and Professor Zhang Yudong, former Vice President of Huaqiao University.

The diverse group of attendees underscored the broad spectrum of collaboration possibilities between the two institutions.

The discussions delved into various areas of potential collaboration, highlighting the following key points:

Mobility Programs: Both institutions expressed interest in establishing mobility programs for students and academics. This exchange initiative seeks to facilitate cultural immersion and academic enrichment, promoting a deeper understanding between Malaysian and Chinese students.

Research Collaboration: The participants explored opportunities for collaborative research between Malaysia and China on overseas Chinese religion and culture. This initiative aims to deepen the understanding of cultural heritage and foster academic cooperation.

50th Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations: With the year 2024 marking the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Malaysia and China, the participants discussed potential celebratory events and collaborative projects to commemorate this significant milestone.

Cultural Training: Recognizing the importance of cultural understanding, there were talks about implementing cultural training programs to strengthen Chinese culture and enhance cross-cultural communication.

Comparative Studies: Dr Zaifuddin Md Rasip suggested potential activities in comparative religious studies. This proposal aims to foster a deeper understanding of the diverse religious landscapes in Malaysia and China, promoting tolerance and interfaith dialogue.

During the event. Professor Zhang provided intriguing trivia, mentioning that an estimated 30,000 Chinese students are currently pursuing various academic programs in mobility activities in Thailand.

The delegates expressed admiration for Sabah's unique culture and cuisine, deeming it suitable for religious and cultural exchange initiatives.

Dr Beatrice Lim Fui Yee from UMS Global Office recommended undergraduate and postgraduate programs to the delegates from Huaqiao University, emphasizing the academic opportunities available at UMS.

In a symbolic gesture of appreciation an d collaboration, Prof Chong exchanged tokens of appreciation with the delegation from Huaqiao University.

This gesture highlighted the mutual respect and commitment to strengthen ties between the two institutions. In a show of gratitude, Dr Sharifah Milda Amirul represented Associate Professor Dr Mohd Rahimie Abd Karim to express thanks to Liew for his continuous efforts in promoting educational collaboration between Sabah and China.

Datu Razali Datuk Datu Hj Eranza, International Mobility Coordinator stated that mobility can be made possible and more plausible with the assistance of the Chamber and industrialists. This acknowledgment emphasized the role of organizations and industry leaders in making cross-border mobility initiatives a reality.

Andy Lee Chen Hiung, director of UMS Accounting Centre expressed hope to close the knowledge gap between the accounting profession in China and the accounting profession in Malaysia because our markets are closely connected.

This forward-looking statement underlines the importance of shared knowledge and expertise to enhance professional practices and foster stronger economic ties between the two nations.

Also present who added significant insights to the discussions were Chua Man Kui, deputy president of SCCC; Professor Fan Zhengyi, director of Overseas Chinese Religion and Fujian and Taiwan Religious Research Center at Huaqiao University; Associate Professor Liu Shouzheng, researcher at the Overseas Chinese Religion Research Center and Fujian and Taiwan Huaqiao University; Associate Professor Zhong Darong, director of Huaqiao University Malaysia Research Center, National Research Base of China's National Ethnic Affairs Commission; Dr Suhailah Abdul Muin, Head of Program for Islamic Studies at Faculty of Islamic Studies; Dr Mohd Nur Hidayat Hasbollah Hajimin, lecturer at Faculty of Islamic Studies.

The Mobility Exchange Initiative stands as a testament to the commitment of both institutions in fostering international cooperation, bridging cultural gaps, and promoting academic and economic partnerships between Huaqiao University and Universiti Malaysia Sabah. As these discussions materialize into concrete collaborations, the impact on education, research, and cultural understanding promises to be profound and far reaching.

Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) is ready to assist in developing the halal industry in Hong Kong through its expertise and resources.

This was stated by the Dean of the Faculty of Food Science and Nutrition, Prof. Madya Ts. Dr. Hasmadi Mamat, highlighting that the initiative will be driven by collaboration with GBA Halal Certification Centre Ltd.

“The partnership includes consultancy services in halal analytical laboratory expertise, with the involvement of OriGene DNA Testing Company Ltd. for DNA and alcohol analysis in halal food products available in the Hong Kong market.

“Additionally, as a halal training provider registered under JAKIM, UMS is prepared to offer various halal training programs, such as halal awareness courses, halal competency courses, executive halal programs, and halal auditing training for the halal industry players in Hong Kong,” he said.

Dr. Hasmadi made the statement following the signing of a letter of agreement between UMS, represented by its Halal Services and Research Centre (PPPH), and GBA Halal Certification Centre Ltd., during the Halal Pavilion 2024 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre.

He also emphasized that UMS would provide consultancy and advisory services in halal assurance system management to ensure compliance with established halal standards.

Meanwhile, GBA General Manager, Sharifa Leung, expressed optimism about the collaboration’s impact on advancing the halal ecosystem in Hong Kong.

“We deeply appreciate UMS for offering support and assistance in developing the halal industry here.

“My hope is for Hong Kong’s halal industry to grow significantly in the future. I also wish for both Muslim and non-Muslim communities in Hong Kong to benefit from this collaboration, particularly by increasing awareness and knowledge about halal,” she said.