24 April 2019 (Wednesay) – Forest Research Institute Malaysia (FRIM) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with University College Bestari (UCB) to work together in enhancing the potential economic value of natural products through research and development (R&D).

Abd Latif speaking at the ceremony.	From left: Nor Azah, Abd Latif, Tengku Mahmud, Sakri and Abdul Razak during the document exchange session.

This collaboration also aims to enable the applications of research findings and technology generated through the sharing of expertise and facilities, as well as to enhance skills through technology transfer initiatives between both institutions.

The ceremony was held at FRIM, Kepong on 9 April. FRIM Director General (DG) Dato’ Dr Abd Latif Mohmod signed the agreement on behalf of the institute while UCB was represented by Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dr Sakri Ibrahim.

Through this collaboration, FRIM will conduct bioprospecting research and develop the relevant marker technology as well as a range of value-added products such as food and beverage, nutraceuticals and cosmeceuticals for commercialisation. 

All attendees at the ceremony posing for a group photograph.

Also present, UCB University Management Board Chairman YM Prof. Dato’ Dr Tengku Mahmud Mansor, UCB Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic and International) Prof. Dr Sulaiman Yamin, UCB Entrepreneurship Development and Language Studies Division Director Associate Prof. Abdul Razak Salleh, FRIM Natural Products Director Dr Nor Azah Mohamad Ali as well as FRIM Innovation and Commercialisation Director Norhayati Nordin.