Miri, Sarawak – 18 November 2025 – Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia) has inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with PMG Healthcare, marking the start of a strategic collaboration aimed at advancing healthcare education, research, and community engagement in Sarawak and across Malaysia.

The MoU signifies a powerful alliance between academia and industry to nurture homegrown talent, drive healthcare innovation, and create lasting social impact.

The signing ceremony, held recently at Curtin Malaysia’s campus in Miri, was attended by senior representatives from both organisations.

PMG Healthcare’s delegation was led by Managing Director, Dr. Chieng King Chong; accompanied by Chief Pharmacist, Ph. Ling Hung Leong; Chief Human Resources Officer, Lee Shao Ching; Head of Retail Operation Support, Sia Pei Sin; Senior Manager (Clinic Business Development & Marketing), Everlynn Hii; Assistant Leader (Clinic Operation), Nicholas Din Hwa Biing; Executive (Clinic Business Development & Marketing), Frankie Tiong; and Junior Executive (Human Resources), Florance Anak Augustine Usit.

They were warmly received by Professor Vincent Lee Chieng Chen, Pro Vice-Chancellor, President and Chief Executive of Curtin Malaysia, together with Dean of the School of Pre-U and Continuing Education (SPACE), Associate Professor Fidella Tiew; Associate Dean of External Engagement, Faculty of Engineering and Science, Associate Professor Ir. Dr. Lim Chye Ing; Associate Dean of Research and Development, Faculty of Business, Dr. Tiong Ying; Associate Dean of External Engagement, Faculty of Business, Dr. Ivy Hii; Associate Dean of Learning and Teaching, Faculty of Business, Dr. Fayrene Chieng; Associate Director of Continuing Studies, SPACE, Carrie Ho; and other senior Curtin Malaysia academic leaders.

In his address, Professor Lee described the partnership as a ‘transformative step’ in strengthening links between higher education and Malaysia’s growing healthcare sector.

“This partnership is not just a milestone; it is a platform for innovation, for talent development, and for social impact,” said Professor Lee. “Curtin Malaysia is proud to be part of this effort, not simply as an educational institution, but as a partner in nation-building. As a Sarawak Government-owned university, we take seriously our role in advancing local capacity and creating value for the people of Sarawak and Malaysia at large,” he said.

PMG Healthcare’s Managing Director, Dr. Chieng, highlighted the company’s journey from its humble beginnings in Sarikei to becoming one of Malaysia’s most extensive healthcare networks with 183 pharmacies, 35 medical clinics, eight dental clinics, and a physiotherapy centre nationwide.

“Our heart remains in Sarawak,” Dr. Chieng said. “This partnership will not only develop local talent but also retain that talent here in Sarawak, ensuring our best and brightest contribute to our communities.”

Under the MoU, Curtin Malaysia and PMG Healthcare will collaborate on a wide range of initiatives, including student internships and industry placements across PMG’s retail, clinical, and corporate divisions; joint workshops, seminars, and conferences to promote knowledge exchange; scholarships and awards for aspiring healthcare professionals; collaborative research in areas such as digital healthcare innovation, sustainability, and public health; and community engagement projects to promote wellness and health education across Sarawak.

The partnership supports Sarawak’s Post-COVID Development Strategy 2030, reinforcing both organisations’ commitment to advancing the state’s healthcare ecosystem through education, innovation, and social responsibility. It represents a shared vision between Curtin Malaysia and PMG Healthcare to build a stronger, more sustainable healthcare system driven by innovation, research, and locally developed expertise.