From 2 – 24 August 2025, the Division of Applied Biomedical Science and Biotechnology had the privilege of hosting delegates from Fooyin University, Taiwan, under its Inbound Mobility Programme. This initiative reflects IMU University’s ongoing commitment to internationalisation, academic collaboration, and cross-cultural learning.

The delegation comprised four students – Kwong Hua Yue, Tseng Tyng Yi, Zeng Sin Yi, and Chen Tzu Jui – accompanied by faculty members A/P Dr Tsao Der An and A/P Dr Lo Horng-Ren.

During their three-week stay, the Fooyin delegates actively participated in IMU University’s undergraduate classes, experiencing firsthand how biomedical science education is structured and delivered in Malaysia. They joined discussions, observed innovative teaching methods, and interacted with IMU students – exchanging perspectives that enriched the classroom environment for both sides.

Beyond academic learning, this engagement provided the delegates with a deeper appreciation of IMU University’s educational philosophy, which emphasises student-centred learning, critical thinking, and interdisciplinary collaboration.

A key highlight of the programme was the series of educational visits to Malaysia’s leading healthcare and scientific institutions:

• Beacon Hospital:

Where they learned about patient-centred care and the integration of advanced diagnostic technologies.

• Institut Jantung Negara (IJN):

Offering exposure to world-class cardiac care facilities, from cutting-edge diagnostics to surgical interventions.

• Pantai Hospital Kuala Lumpur (PHKL):

Providing insights into private healthcare services and multidisciplinary clinical practices.

• Jabatan Kimia Malaysia:

Where they explored the critical role of forensic and analytical sciences in public health, law enforcement, and national safety.

These visits gave the delegates a comprehensive overview of Malaysia’s healthcare ecosystem, spanning both the public and private sectors. The experience allowed them to compare healthcare structures between Malaysia and Taiwan, while also recognising the importance of industry-academia partnerships in shaping biomedical science training and innovation.

For the students, the mobility programme was more than just an academic exchange – it was also an immersive cultural journey. By interacting with IMU peers and faculty, they developed meaningful friendships and fostered mutual understanding across borders. These interactions highlighted the importance of global citizenship in healthcare education, reminding all participants that science and medicine transcend geographical boundaries.

This collaboration between IMU University and Fooyin University not only enhanced the delegates’ learning experience but also laid the groundwork for future academic and research partnerships in the field of medical and diagnostic laboratory sciences.

The success of this programme demonstrates IMU University’s dedication to equipping students and academics with opportunities that broaden their horizons, nurture professional networks, and prepare them to contribute meaningfully to the advancement of healthcare and biomedical science globally.

Written by Prof Dr Chye Soi Moi