By: Aimi Mohamad Farid
Photo by: Saleha Haron
SERDANG, 20 May - Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) and UCSI Hospital formalised a strategic collaboration through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening professional training, research and technological development in radiology and medical imaging.
The collaboration includes the establishment of a fellowship in Hybrid Molecular Imaging and Diagnostic Oncology between UCSI Hospital and UPM through the Centre for Diagnostic Nuclear Imaging (PPDN) UPM, focusing on advancing expertise and professional training in hybrid molecular imaging and oncology diagnostics.
The signing ceremony also involved strategic collaborations with Revise Radiology UK and United Imaging Healthcare to further strengthen industry and international partnerships in radiology education and imaging technology development.
Chairman of UCSI Healthcare Group, Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Clinical Prof. Dr. Haji Noor Hisham Abdullah, said the collaboration reflects the importance of partnerships between academic institutions, healthcare providers and industry players in strengthening the country’s healthcare education ecosystem.
“Each institution has its own expertise and through this collaboration, we are able to bring together knowledge, technology and training to strengthen medical education and healthcare services,” he said.
He added that rapid advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), biotechnology and automation have transformed the way medicine is practised, making continuous collaboration and knowledge sharing increasingly important.
“The way we practise medicine is changing rapidly and collaborations like this will help ensure our healthcare system remains relevant and resilient in the future,” he said.
Meanwhile, Director of PPDN UPM, Prof. Dr. Subapriya Suppiah, described the fellowship programme as a first-of-its-kind initiative in Malaysia that focuses on hybrid molecular imaging involving Positron Emission Tomography-Computed Tomography (PET-CT), Positron Emission Tomography-Magnetic Resonance Imaging (PET-MRI) and ultrasound modalities for early cancer detection and diagnosis.
According to her, the collaboration would allow specialists from various disciplines to work together while enhancing expertise in diagnostic oncology and hybrid imaging technologies.
“This is a state-of-the-art training programme and the first of its kind in Malaysia and we hope to become a regional hub for international trainees and specialists in this field,” she said.
The ceremony also witnessed the signing of MoU with Revise Radiology UK to support international radiology education, mentorship and professional development pathways between Malaysia and the United Kingdom.
In addition, a Master Research Agreement (MRA) with United Imaging Healthcare was established involving the sponsorship of international fellows and the development of the Centre of Excellence in Medical Sonography, as well as the United Imaging Fellowship Programme, utilising advanced ultrasound systems.
The event also marked the official introduction of the Academy of Radiology Training (ART) under the Centre for Medical Education and Training (CMET) at UCSI Hospital, an initiative aimed at advancing simulation-based learning, structured radiology training and international collaboration in medical imaging education.
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