UoC Faculty of Pharmacy Triumphs at the 2025 Malaysia Technology Expo – 5th SDG International Innovation Awards

The Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Cyberjaya (UoC) proudly celebrates its achievements at the 2025 Malaysia Technology Expo – 5th SDG International Innovation Awards, held virtually. Prof. Ts. Dr Liew Kai Bin and his team secured one Gold medal and two Silver medals for their pioneering pharmaceutical innovations, highlighting UoC’s commitment to advancing health, sustainability, and scientific innovation in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Gold Medal – Lumine Oceano: Marine-Based Fucoidan-Loaded Marinosome for Anti-Ageing

Developed by Phang Hiu Ching, a Master of Pharmaceutical Sciences student at the University of Cyberjaya and Prof. Ts. Dr Liew Kai Bin, Lumine Oceano uses a tiny marine-based delivery system to transport fucoidan, a natural compound from brown algae, into the skin more effectively by encapsulating it in krill lipid-based marinosomes. This improves stability, absorption, and penetration, resulting in potent anti-ageing and skin-rejuvenating effects.

Prof. Ts. Dr Liew Kai Bin said:
“Marine organisms offer powerful natural antioxidants. We aimed to harness these bioactives using advanced delivery systems to create a formulation that is both scientifically robust and environmentally responsible.”

Meanwhile,  Phang Hiu Ching added: “Our greatest challenge was developing a stable marine-derived carrier for fucoidan. Achieving this with krill oil and skin-friendly fats was a major breakthrough.”

The innovation supports SDGs related to health, sustainable production, marine life, and global partnerships, while showcasing Malaysia’s potential in the blue economy.

Silver Medal – NaGanoHeal: Hybrid Nanoparticle Transdermal Film for Wound Healing

Driven by a young team of innovators from the University of Cyberjaya’s Bachelor of Pharmacy programme — Lai Wen Faye, Seah Ee-Yan, Toh Jing Ying, Teo Zheng Lin, Tee Xin Ling, and Rae Cha Yu Xuan, together with Phang Hiu Ching and industry collaborator Mong Yih Kong of Gruson Wellness Sdn Bhd — NaGanoHeal introduces a novel wound-healing film that blends Ganoderma bioactives with a biodegradable chitosan–hyaluronic acid nanoparticle system.

Lai Wen Faye explained:
“NaGanoHeal combines traditional medicine with modern nanotechnology. By using safe, natural ingredients with advanced polymers, we aim to accelerate tissue repair and support skin regeneration.”

She highlighted the balance between scientific rigour and practicality:

“We optimised nanoparticle properties and antioxidant activity while ensuring the film is breathable, flexible, and easy to use. Using scalable and cost-effective materials makes it accessible for all.”

The innovation not only promotes faster healing but also reduces biomedical waste through eco-friendly materials.

Silver Medal – SynbiMalt: Fast Melt Film Oral Supplement for Oral Health

Another Silver Medal innovation, SynbiMalt, was spearheaded by Seah Ee-Yan, together with Prof. Ts. Dr. Liew Kai Bin, Phang Hiu Ching, Lai Wen Faye, Tee Xin Ling, Rae Cha Yu Xuan, Teo Zheng Lin, and Toh Jing Ying. SynbiMalt introduces a new generation of fast-dissolving orodispersible films that combine Bacillus coagulans probiotics with maltodextrin prebiotics. Designed to dissolve within 85 seconds while maintaining high probiotic viability, this innovative formulation supports both oral and gut health in a low-cost, portable, and sustainable format.

Seah Ee-Yan said: “SynbiMalt bridges natural resources with modern pharmaceutical technology. The fast-dissolving film ensures the probiotic reaches its target effectively while remaining viable, making it practical for real-life healthcare.

“We optimised polymers and mechanical properties scientifically, while designing the film for ease of use, especially for children, the elderly, or patients with swallowing difficulties. Simple, scalable manufacturing makes it affordable and accessible to all.”

Celebrating Sustainable Innovation

These awards reflect UoC’s growing leadership in translational research, nanotechnology, and sustainable pharmaceutical innovation. Through strong academia-industry collaboration, UoC researchers continue to turn breakthrough ideas into meaningful, real-world solutions.