By Danial Dzulkifly
KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 19 – In a bid to stimulate innovation and foster closer ties between academia and industry players, the state government, through its investment arm Invest Selangor Bhd, has launched the Selangor Lab Partnership Programme.
It serves as a dedicated research and development platform, aiming to integrate classroom-based theories with practical industry applications, Invest Selangor said in a statement today.
The initiative, which is done in collaboration with Universiti Selangor (Unisel) and Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM, underscores the state’s vision to enhance industrial growth and innovation.
It was formally unveiled today through the presentation of a letter of confirmation by both universities to Invest Selangor's chief executive officer Datuk Hasan Azhari Idris at the opening ceremony of the Selangor International Business Summit 2023.
Representing Unisel was its president and vice-chancellor Datuk Mohammad Redzuan Othman, while UPM was represented by vice-chancellor Datuk Ahmad Farhan Mohd Sadullah.
“The Selangor Lab Partnership Program stands as a pivotal initiative designed to serve as a bridge, connecting academic institutions — including universities, institutions of higher learning, and research institutes — with industry players within the thriving life sciences sector,” said Invest Selangor.
“Its core mission is to facilitate access to valuable resources, foster collaboration, and promote the exchange of knowledge between these vital entities.
“Under this programme, industry players gain access to essential resources including cutting-edge laboratory facilities, specialised equipment, analysis support, expert consultancy, student participation, technical training, and the opportunity to engage in collaborative research projects.
“Industry players have the flexibility to select and tailor the specific services to meet their unique needs.”
With this partnership in place, Invest Selangor also invites both foreign and local investors, as well as micro, small and medium businesses, startups, and life sciences researchers to join the initiative.