Pharmaceutical Chemistry Week 2024 was held from 8-9 August at the IMU Bukit Jalil campus, with the theme “Sustainable Chemistry for Health and Wellness.” Organised by the School of Pharmacy, this impactful event was supported by key collaborators, including Institut Kimia Malaysia (IKM), IKM Division of Green & Sustainable Chemistry (DGSC), The Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC) Malaysia Local Section, The American Chemical Society (ACS) Malaysia Chapter, and IMU Sustainability & Community Engagement (IMU Cares).
This year’s event took a unique approach, with BSc (Hons) in Pharmaceutical Chemistry students leading the charge. Held in a hybrid format, the event combined physical on-campus activities with virtual sessions, ensuring a wider reach and engagement.
The opening ceremony, officiated by Prof Dr Ong Chin Eng, Dean, School of Pharmacy; A/Prof ChM Dr Fatimah Salim, representing IKM; Prof ChM Dr Juan Joon Ching and ChM Dr Lee Kian Mun, representing IKM DGSC; and ChM Dr Low May Lee, representing the ACS Malaysia Chapter, set the tone for the exciting and educational activities that followed.
One of the main highlights of the event was the Video and Craft Challenge Competitions, where participants showcased innovative solutions to global health challenges using sustainable practices. These competitions sparked creativity, with entries focusing on recyclable materials and video presentations to convey impactful ideas on sustainability.
Interactive booths, set up by Pharmaceutical Chemistry students, offered hands-on demonstrations to deepen visitors’ understanding of sustainable chemistry in action.
A key attraction was a hands-on laboratory workshop that allowed participants to create colorimetric pH-responsive hydrogel beads using natural pigments. This practical session underscored the real-world applications of green chemistry and how it can drive sustainability in the pharmaceutical field.
To complement the hands-on activities, a webinar series featuring industry experts delved into the evolving role of sustainable chemistry in various sectors. Speakers such as ChM Dr Lee Siang Yin and ChM Mr Lee Ching Yik shared their insights on topics like the intersection of rubber science and sustainability, as well as the adoption of green chemistry in the skincare industry.
The event concluded with a closing ceremony, marking the end of what was not just an outreach event, but a celebration of innovation, collaboration, and the powerful role of sustainable chemistry in shaping future healthcare solutions.
Pharmaceutical Chemistry Week 2024 achieved its core objectives—raising awareness, fostering collaboration, and inspiring action in the field of sustainable chemistry. By emphasising the crucial contributions of students and educators, the event reaffirmed IMU University’s commitment to nurturing future scientists and healthcare professionals. It laid a strong foundation for future initiatives, furthering the university’s role in promoting STEM and sustainable practices across Malaysia.
PC Week Student Organising Chair, Chuah Jia Syuen, said, ‘Organising Pharmaceutical Chemistry Week has been a transformative experience for the entire student committee and me. Through every challenge and success, we’ve gained invaluable skills in leadership, teamwork, and adaptability. We’ve grown our passion for sustainable chemistry, health, and wellness, and witnessed the profound impact of bringing students, professionals, and innovators together. This event has not only strengthened our academic and professional networks but has also inspired us to contribute meaningfully to a more sustainable future in the pharmaceutical field.‘
Winners of the Craft Challenge
Champion
1st Runner Up
Hoo Yu En, Lee Meng Yan, Ng Hui Tong, Vanessa Lim Qiao Yee
Moses Tee Yew Bing
Winners of Video Contest
Champion
1st Runner Up
2nd Runner Up
Leong Jomin, Lee Zilin, Lee Wai Kee
Vanessa Lim Qiao Yee, Jishma Nair, Hoo Yu En
Tan Jiarui
