Researchers from IMU University were among the 31 selected participants from various distinguished institutes at the Malaysian Responsible Conduct of Research (RCR) programme, held from 13–15 June 2025. Organised by the Young Scientists Network – Academy of Sciences Malaysia (YSN-ASM) in collaboration with the Higher Education Leadership Academy (AKEPT), the workshop aimed to strengthen the culture of research integrity across Malaysia.
Prof Dr Mai Chun Wai, Chairperson of YSN-ASM and Acting Deputy Director (Research Strategy and Innovation), Institute for Research, Development, and Innovation (IRDI), IMU University, led the programme together with the YSN-ASM Science Integrity Strategic Committee. The programme was based on the Malaysian Educational Module on Responsible Conduct of Research and employed active learning methods, including case studies, team-based learning, peer instruction, and role-play. It covered ten key topics on research ethics and integrity, including research misconduct, data management, authorship, publication ethics, conflict of interest, financial management, peer review, collaborative research, dual-use research, and mentor–mentee relationships.
The programme provided a valuable platform for participants to reflect on and debate ethical dilemmas in research. It strengthened their commitment to responsible research practices—critical in today’s high-pressure academic landscape. IMU University researchers actively contributed and gained tremendous insight from the experience.
Reflections from IMU University Participants
Dr Nur Alia Johari
Senior Lecturer, Institute for Research, Development and Innovation (IRDI) and IMU Alumnus PhD in Medical and Health Sciences (Infectious Disease Epidemiology)
“The workshop gathered a diverse group of academics and researchers from across the country, spanning a broad spectrum of disciplines and levels of research experience. Over the course of the programme, we participated in insightful sessions on the core principles of ethical research, supported by real-world case studies and lively team discussions.
The exchanges were candid and thought-provoking, allowing participants to share their own challenges and learn practical strategies to foster responsible research conduct at their respective institutions. Our spirited debate sessions provided plenty of serious food for thought, as well as light-hearted camaraderie that kept everyone energised throughout. This workshop was an invaluable reminder of our collective responsibility to uphold the integrity of research. I am especially grateful to the passionate instructors and the entire ASM team for delivering a well-structured, highly engaging programme.”
Dr Lee Yi Yi
Senior Lecturer, School of Health Sciences
“After dedicating the past two years to programme management and curriculum-related responsibilities, participating in the Responsible Conduct of Research (RCR) Programme organised by the Young Scientists Network – Academy of Sciences Malaysia (YSN-ASM) was a timely and valuable opportunity to reconnect with my research aspirations. The enriching three-day session, guided by excellent trainers, facilitated meaningful discussions and thoughtful self-reflection that have reinforced our collective commitment to upholding ethical and responsible research practices.”
Dr Lim Wui Zhuan
Lecturer, School of Health Sciences and IMU Alumnus (Bachelor of Applied Science (Hons) in Medical Biotechnology)
“Participating in the RCR workshop by ASM-YSN was a timely and eye-opening experience. While the topics seemed familiar at first, the depth of discussion, real-life examples, and reflections from peers across disciplines truly brought them to life. The thought-provoking activities—especially the co-creation and destruction of drawings—powerfully illustrated the moral and emotional complexity of navigating hierarchical decisions in research, particularly when instructions clash with personal values.
This experience reminded me that research integrity goes beyond rules; it’s about human dynamics, accountability, and ethical courage. As a young researcher, I have much to learn, but I’m grateful for the clarity and inspiration this workshop has given me. I hope to one day contribute to training the next generation of researchers.”
Dr Tan Siew Tin
Lecturer, School of Health Sciences
“I never imagined a serious topic like the Responsible Conduct of Research (RCR) Programme could be delivered so engagingly. We were hardly tied to our chairs or laptops! Beyond the meaningful discussions, we enjoyed a friendly match, reconnected with old friends, and formed new research collaborations.
I’m thankful for my fantastic debate team—we wouldn’t have won Best Debate Group, and I wouldn’t have received Best Female Debater, without them. Thank you to AKEPT, IMU, School of Health Sciences Dean Prof Anna Ling, and Head of Department Dr Megan Chong for this opportunity. I’m inspired to pass on the importance of ethics and scientific integrity to young scientists.
Never practice the wrong thing to make it perfectly wrong—start it right from the beginning!”
Dr Yong Heng Yaw
Lecturer, School of Health Sciences
I recently attended the 2-day Responsible Conduct of Research (RCR) workshop organised by YSN ASM and what an energising experience it was! With such a well-paced and engaging programme, I didn’t even have time to turn on my laptop (a rare achievement!). What made the experience even more memorable was that we even had time for sports, which reminded me how important it is to find balance, something many of us in research tend to overlook.
It was also a great platform to share my thoughts on research practices and to learn from others’ experiences. I’m grateful for the valuable discussions, new connections, and renewed inspiration to carry forward responsible research practices while also keeping well-being in mind.
Thoughts Shared