Curtin Malaysia researchers shine at MTE AHLS 2024 with groundbreaking innovations

Miri, Sarawak – 6 September 2024 – Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia) has once again demonstrated its prowess in cutting-edge research and innovation, clinching prestigious accolades at the Malaysia Technology Expo (MTE) 2024 Advanced Healthcare and Life Sciences International Innovation Awards and Expo. The university’s innovative contributions have not only earned them top honours but have also positioned them as leaders in the global fight against critical healthcare challenges.

 Leading the charge, Professor Stephanie Chan Yen San, a Professor in Chemical and Energy Engineering at Curtin Malaysia, and her team have been awarded the silver prize in the Diseases Category for their groundbreaking ‘PB/AG Nanoemulsion: An Antimalarial Supplemental Aid.’ This pioneering innovation is poised to revolutionise malaria treatment, particularly in regions grappling with drug resistance.

 The research team, comprising experts from Curtin Malaysia and UNIMAS, including Dr. Angela Siner, Associate Professor Jobrun Nandong, Dr. Jibrail Kansedo, Freddie Panau, and Sam Jian Hung, has developed a nanoemulsion that enhances the antimalarial properties of A. galanga extract by combining it with P. betle extract. This innovative approach reduces the effective dosage while maintaining efficacy, addressing the pressing issue of malaria parasite resistance.

“Our nanoemulsion not only enhances water solubility and drug release but also significantly improves bioavailability,” Prof. Chan explained. “This breakthrough has the potential to redefine antimalarial therapy, offering a new supplemental aid in the global battle against malaria.”

In another remarkable achievement, Professor Roy Rillera Marzo, Dean of Curtin Malaysia’s Faculty of Humanities and Health Sciences, alongside his colleague Dr. Noraisikin Binti Sabani, secured the Bronze prize in the Digital Health and Mobile Solutions Category for their innovative ‘REACH: Resilient Empowerment through Age-Integrated Connection Hub.’ This cutting-edge app is designed to enhance global well-being by bridging generations through digital health literacy and personalised health management.

 “The REACH app is more than just a health tool; it’s a scalable, inclusive platform that empowers individuals across generations to take control of their health,” Professor Marzo remarked. “By integrating telehealth services with AI-driven health management, REACH is set to transform healthcare accessibility and improve health outcomes worldwide.”

These accolades highlight Curtin Malaysia’s unwavering commitment to pioneering research and innovation in the healthcare sector. Acting Pro Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive Professor Vincent Lee Chieng Chen expressed pride in Curtin Malaysia’s achievements, stating, “These awards are a testament to Curtin Malaysia’s leadership in developing innovative solutions that address some of the most pressing challenges in healthcare today. We are dedicated to making a global impact through our research and advancing the frontiers of science and technology.”

With these groundbreaking innovations, Curtin University Malaysia continues to solidify its position as a leader in healthcare research, driving transformative change on a global scale.

For more information on Curtin Malaysia, visit curtin.edu.my or look for Curtin Malaysia on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn or TikTok.

The MTE AHLS 2024 award winners (from left) Professor Stephanie Chan Yen San and Professor Roy Rillera Marzo