KUCHING: The collaboration between Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak, Novugen Pharma Sdn Bhd and Borneo Medical Centre (BMC) to develop a real-time tracking system has been hailed as a forward-thinking step toward strengthening Sarawak’s healthcare innovation ecosystem.
Deputy Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, said healthcare innovation today is no longer confined to treatment alone but also focuses on efficiency, data utilisation, and enhancing the overall patient experience.
“This collaboration between academia, the private sector, and healthcare providers demonstrates how research can deliver real, tangible benefits to society,” he said.
He said this during the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) between the three parties at Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus here today.
The MoA marks the beginning of a research and development (R&D) project aimed at creating a real-time tracking solution to improve hospital operational efficiency, optimise workflow, boost staff productivity, and enhance the overall patient experience.
The system will be piloted at BMC, with R&D fully funded by Novugen Pharma.
Once successfully implemented, the technology will be integrated into the hospital’s daily operations, setting a new benchmark for digital transformation in the healthcare sector.
The MoA was signed by Pro Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive Officer of Swinburne Saraw, Ir Professor Lau Hieng Ho; Vice-President of Commercial Operations at Novugen Pharma, Saif-ur-Rehman; and Medical Director of BMC, Dr Law Siew Hor.
Witnessing the signing were Deputy Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research) of Swinburne Sarawak, Professor Dr Ida Fatimawati Adi Badiozaman; Associate Business Unit Director of Novugen Pharma, Victor Chan; and, General Manager of BMC, Dr Kenneth Tan.
Lau said the MoA reflects Swinburne Sarawak’s commitment to high-impact research that addresses real-world needs and supports Sarawak’s digital economic transformation.
“This MoA represents more than just a collaboration; it signifies a commitment to innovation that transforms lives.
“Our researchers and students will actively contribute to developing practical, technology-driven solutions to strengthen healthcare service delivery in the region,” he said.
Saif-ur-Rehman said Novugen Pharma’s strategic vision is to accelerate innovation through meaningful collaboration, while Dr Law said the initiative aligns with BMC’s vision of redefining patient care through technology-driven and trust-based approaches.
“This initiative forms part of the Swinburne Sarawak Research Masterplan 2030 under the Digital Health focus area, which leverages data analytics and emerging technologies to enhance public health and healthcare delivery,” he said.
