Advancing Global Science and Innovation

Multiple Memoranda of Agreement were signed between Malaysian organizations, the State University of New York, and the Academy.

Published May 16, 2012

By Diana Friedman

On May 16, 2012, the New York Academy of Sciences hosted the 2nd Annual Global Science and Innovation Advisory Council (GSIAC) Meeting. GSIAC is a joint initiative between the Malaysia Industry-Government Group for High Technology (MIGHT) and the Academy.

As part of the Council Meeting, the Academy was pleased to host the Honorable Prime Minister of Malaysia, Dato Seri Najib bin Tun Abdul Razak, who serves as the Chairman of GSIAC. Science Advisor to the Prime Minister of Malaysia Dato’ Dr. Zakri Abdul Hamid will serve as a Joint Secretary of GSIAC.

As part of the GSIAC Council Meeting, multiple Memoranda of Agreement were exchanged outlining ground-breaking new global partnerships between various organizations. One MOU details a partnership between the State University of New York (SUNY) system, represented by SUNY Chancellor and Academy Board Chair Dr. Nancy Zimpher, the Malaysian Research University Network, and the Academy. The MOU covers the scope of cooperation on Cradle to Career education initiatives and human capital development.

Another MOU outlines a partnership between University Kebangsaan Malaysia, represented by University Vice Chancellor and President Tan Sri Dr. Sharifah Hapsah Syed Hasan Shahabudin, and the Academy. The document exchange was witnessed by the wife of the Prime Minister of Malaysia, Datin Paduka Seri Dr. Hajah Rosmah Mansor, an advocate for Malaysian education reform. The MOU sets the groundwork for establishing a Nobel Laureate-in-Residence program in Malaysian research labs. Academy-based training will also be available for Malaysian researchers.

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