28 May 2025, Kuching, Sarawak – The International Cancer Research Symposium (ICRS) 2025 successfully concluded its two-day programme at The Waterfront Hotel, Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia. Hosted by the University of Nottingham Malaysia in partnership with the Sarawak State Government through the Sarawak Research Development Council (SRDC) and Business Events Sarawak (BES), the symposium brought together 190 delegates from across Southeast Asia, the UK, Europe, and other global research hubs — solidifying the region’s growing role in shaping the future of cancer research.
With the theme “Bridging Borders: Addressing Cancer Across South-East Asia”, ICRS 2025 provided a vital platform for advancing transnational research partnerships, spotlighting regionally relevant solutions, and accelerating the translation of cancer research into community impact.
Distinguished keynote speakers included Professor Dr. Douglas Easton from the University of Cambridge, Dr. Alan Khoo Soo Beng from Thomas Jefferson University, United States, Professor Dr. Xiangjian (Sean) He from the University of Nottingham, China, and Professor Dr. Xin Lu from the University of Oxford, United Kingdom. The symposium facilitated dialogues on advancements in AI applications for cancer diagnosis and treatment, emerging insights in cancer genomics, precision oncology in Asia, and more. These critical discussions underscored the vital role of region-specific research in addressing worldwide cancer challenges and advancing effective solutions.
UNM at the Forefront of Cancer Research Excellence
With its strategic presence in Malaysia and a research ethos rooted in inclusivity and impact, the University of Nottingham Malaysia is taking a leading role in fostering high-quality, context-sensitive cancer research. ICRS 2025 showcased more than 95 Malaysian and ASEAN-led research projects, ranging from genetic risk profiling to scalable community-based screening programmes tailored to Southeast Asian populations.
ICRS 2025 also aligns with Sarawak’s broader vision of becoming a leader in healthcare innovation and equitable access. The Deputy Premier of Sarawak and Minister for Public Health, Housing and Local Government, Yang Berhormat Datuk Amar Professor Dr. Sim Kui Hian graced the networking dinner and officiated the symposium. He remarked in his speech, “Cancer is not only a medical challenge but a societal one; demanding joint action from governments, researchers, industry leaders, and communities alike. ICRS 2025 represents a meaningful step towards that collective action”.
Building on the importance of collective action, Professor Ir. Dr. Mohd Shahir Liew, Vice Provost, Research and Knowledge Exchange of University of Nottingham Malaysia emphasises, “As we work together, we are not only advancing science but offering renewed hope for those whose lives are impacted by this disease. Malaysia is uniquely positioned to do just that. We are confident that the discussions and partnerships formed here will drive tangible progress in cancer research and care, paving the way for a healthier future.”
As part of UNM’s Health and Wellbeing signature strength research theme, ICRS 2025 also aligned with the university’s mission to bridge the research divide between established urban centres and emerging nations in ASEAN.
A Catalyst for Sustainable Cancer Research Collaboration
By convening global experts in one of Malaysia’s most vibrant and diverse regions, ICRS 2025 exemplifies UNM’s role as a convener of ideas, talent, and action. More than an academia-partners gathering, the symposium served as a launchpad for enduring partnerships that will shape the future of cancer research across borders.
Professor Dr. David FitzPatrick, Provost and CEO of University of Nottingham Malaysia affirms this during his welcoming address, “Strategic partnerships play a pivotal role in advancing UNM’s vision. ICRS 2025 has forged unprecedented collaboration between University of Nottingham researchers from the Malaysian, UK, and China campuses, truly representing our university’s vision of being a university without borders. These collaborations foster the development of cutting-edge solutions for some of the most pressing challenges of our time, among which are cancer diagnosis and treatment.”
UNM’s leadership in hosting ICRS 2025 reinforces its standing as a research-intensive university that champions collaborative solutions to the most pressing global health challenges, firmly positioning ASEAN on the global oncology research map.
Posted on 30th May 2025