University of Cyberjaya Launches Tan Sri Dr. Lim Wee Chai Visiting Professorship in Lifestyle Medicine
The University of Cyberjaya has established the Tan Sri Dr. Lim Wee Chai Visiting Professorship in Lifestyle Medicine. This initiative is backed by a RM2 million endowed fund aimed at enhancing the field of Lifestyle Medicine through education, research, and community engagement.
Honoring Tan Sri Dr. Lim Wee Chai
Named in honor of Tan Sri Dr. Lim Wee Chai, Founder and Executive Chairman of Top Glove Corporation Bhd, the professorship aims to implement effective lifestyle modifications—such as proper nutrition, regular physical activity, adequate sleep, stress management, avoiding harmful substances, and fostering social connections—to address chronic diseases, including diabetes.
Endowment Fund Structure
The endowment consists of a RM1 million contribution from Tan Sri Dr. Lim, which has been matched by RM1 million from the University of Cyberjaya, creating a permanent fund intended to support long-term advancements in academic research and societal needs in Lifestyle Medicine.
Collaborative Opportunities
This professorship will invite experts in Lifestyle Medicine from prominent global universities to collaborate with academics and students at the University of Cyberjaya. These scholars will be engaged in delivering lectures, supporting collaborative research initiatives, and assisting in curriculum development. Additionally, outreach programs with healthcare partners and the wider community will aim to enhance understanding of effective lifestyle interventions in health improvement.
Governance and Oversight
The endowment will be placed into an income-generating account, with returns allocated to support activities associated with the visiting professorship. An Endowment Oversight Committee, comprising officials from the University of Cyberjaya and representatives from Tan Sri Dr. Lim’s team, will oversee the fund’s utilization to ensure proper governance and the attainment of program objectives.
Goals of the Initiative
The initiative is designed to achieve several goals within the University of Cyberjaya, such as establishing academic leadership in the realm of Lifestyle Medicine, enhancing the university’s global reputation through international partnerships, and advancing research opportunities through joint publications. It also aims to build capabilities among faculty and students in emerging health disciplines, as well as to promote public engagement in disease prevention strategies that leverage lifestyle modifications.
Advocacy for Lifestyle Medicine
Tan Sri Dr. Lim highlighted the increasing prevalence of lifestyle-related diseases, advocating for investment in research and education in Lifestyle Medicine. He expressed a desire for the visiting professorship to motivate students, healthcare professionals, and the public to take proactive steps toward improving their health through positive lifestyle adjustments.
Recognition of Contributions
In recognition of his contributions, Tan Sri Dr. Lim received an Honorary Doctorate in Management and was named an Honorary Professor of Management by the university in 2021.
Future Aspirations
The University of Cyberjaya is currently preparing to seek qualified candidates from esteemed institutions worldwide, with an official appointment anticipated to be announced at an upcoming Lifestyle Medicine event, reflecting Malaysia’s growing emphasis on preventive and lifestyle-based healthcare.
Impact on Education and Research
Professor Dr. David Whitford, Vice Chancellor and Chief Executive of the University of Cyberjaya, acknowledged Tan Sri Dr. Lim’s generous support, noting that the professorship will significantly contribute to advancing teaching, research, and outreach in Lifestyle Medicine, ultimately equipping future healthcare professionals with an understanding of the importance of healthy living.
*Source: Original news report*
