ASP Medical Group signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) at the USM Chancellory 1 Building today, marking a significant step towards supporting nursing students pursuing diploma and degree courses.
Dr Doreen Yeap Gim Ean, the president of ASP Medical Group and an alumnus of the Graduate School of Business at USM, spearheaded the initiative, reflecting the company’s commitment to enhancing the quality of nursing education and healthcare services in Malaysia.
In her speech at the signing ceremony, Dr Yeap announced that the scholarship fund will cover tuition fees, accommodation, and provide a monthly allowance, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder dedicated students from pursuing their passion for nursing.
Representing ASP Medical Group at the ceremony was its Human Resources Director, Dr Mohd Ramzan, while USM was represented by Prof Dr Azlan Amran, Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Industry & Community Network, USM, on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor. The MoA was signed in the presence of Pulau Tikus assemblyman Joshua Woo Sze Zeng, with Dr Yeap witnessing the signing for ASP Medical Group, and Prof Dr Wan Rosli Wan Ishak, Dean of the School of Health Sciences, for USM.
“Our collaboration with USM goes beyond financial support. We’re actively participating in USM’s career fairs and other sponsorship initiatives, and we are committed to offering job placements to graduates within ASP Medical Group,” Dr Yeap said.
“This partnership is not only beneficial to the students but also addresses the critical shortage of nurses in the healthcare sector, contributing to a more robust and resilient healthcare system.”
She added that the partnership aligns with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 4 (Quality Education), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).
By investing in nursing education, ASP Medical Group aims to strengthen the healthcare workforce, ensuring quality care and better health outcomes. Currently, ASP Medical Group employs a total of 500 staff members.
Dr Yeap also shared that they plan to extend their support to other healthcare courses and paramedics in the future, as well as offer internships to provide students with valuable hands-on experience and insights into the healthcare industry.
Prof Dr Azlan expressed USM’s honour in collaborating with ASP Medical Group on such a meaningful initiative that will positively impact the future of USM’s students. He highlighted the importance of industry partnerships in supporting USM students both academically and practically, ensuring they are well-prepared for employment.
“The field of nursing is one of the key pillars of the healthcare system. With the introduction of this scholarship programme, we can help shape and produce a generation of competent, professional, and dedicated nurses,” Prof Dr Azlan said.
“For USM, industry players are very important for collaboration to ensure our students are well prepared for the workforce and get employed.
“As a leading research university, USM is committed to advancing knowledge and innovation through collaborative efforts with industry players.
“We encourage industry players to participate in our research activities, as there are numerous opportunities for collaboration in R&D. We also welcome input to enhance our curriculum, nurture our students’ talents, and help them achieve their aspirations.”
Among those present at the signing ceremony were Dr Azlina Yusuf, chairperson of Diploma and Degree Nursing Programmes, School of Health Sciences; Prof Madya Dr Shaizatulaqma Kamalul, director of Industry & Community Network, USM; Datuk Dr Tommy Tan Meng Lee, chief executive officer of ASP Medical Group; ASP Medical Group senior managers Irene Lim and R. Presana, and HR manager Khor Zijie.
Story by K.H. Ong
Pix by Darwina Mohd Daud