IMU University Researchers Enhance Research Ethics Commitment at YSN-ASM RCR Programme
Researchers from IMU University participated in the Malaysian Responsible Conduct of Research (RCR) programme, which took place from June 13 to 15, 2025. This initiative, organized by the Young Scientists Network – Academy of Sciences Malaysia (YSN-ASM) in collaboration with the Higher Education Leadership Academy (AKEPT), included 31 participants from various institutions and aimed to promote research integrity across Malaysia.
The programme was led by Prof. Dr. Mai Chun Wai, Chairperson of YSN-ASM and Acting Deputy Director for Research Strategy and Innovation at the Institute for Research, Development, and Innovation (IRDI) at IMU University. The curriculum employed the Malaysian Educational Module on Responsible Conduct of Research and featured active learning strategies such as case studies, team-based learning, peer instruction, and role-play. Key topics addressed included research misconduct, data management, authorship, publication ethics, conflicts of interest, financial management, peer review, collaborative research, dual-use research, and mentor-mentee relationships.
Participants regarded the programme as a significant opportunity to reflect on and discuss ethical dilemmas in research. The involvement of IMU University researchers was noted to enhance the overall educational experience.
Participant Feedback
Feedback from several participants indicated the programme’s positive impact on their understanding of research ethics.
Dr. Nur Alia Johari, a Senior Lecturer at IRDI and an alumnus of IMU in Medical and Health Sciences, emphasized the diversity of participants, stating that collaborative discussions were key in addressing core ethical principles in research. She remarked on the candid exchanges that allowed participants to share challenges and learn practical strategies for fostering responsible research conduct.
Dr. Lee Yi Yi, a Senior Lecturer at the School of Health Sciences, expressed that the workshop helped her reconnect with her research objectives after spending two years focused on programme management. She described the three-day session as enriching, facilitating meaningful discussions and self-reflection.
Dr. Lim Wui Zhuan, a Lecturer at the School of Health Sciences, found the workshop to be a profound learning experience. He noted that the moral complexities related to hierarchical decisions in research extend beyond mere regulations, touching on human dynamics, accountability, and ethical courage.
Dr. Tan Siew Tin, also a Lecturer at the School of Health Sciences, highlighted the interactive format of the programme, which encouraged networking and collaboration among participants. She concluded that the experience underscored the necessity of ethics and scientific integrity for emergent scientists.
Dr. Yong Heng Yaw, another Lecturer at the School of Health Sciences, commented on the energizing format of the workshop, which included elements of physical activity that balanced rigorous discussions with well-being. He noted, with gratitude, the valuable discussions, new connections formed, and renewed inspiration for upholding responsible research practices.
The Responsible Conduct of Research Programme aimed to reinforce fundamental principles of research integrity and provided participants with a platform to re-evaluate their commitment to ethical research in a challenging academic environment.
(Source: IMU University News)
