KUALA LUMPUR: Sarawak aims to expand international cooperation in the field of research, education and professional training to produce more local experts and strengthen the capacity of the state's healthcare sector.

Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg said that the effort is important to develop a competitive healthcare ecosystem through strategic collaboration between universities, medical practitioners, research laboratories, public institutions and industry partners.

According to him, the involvement of various parties can accelerate efforts to translate scientific discoveries into practical applications that benefit patients and society.

"The participation of the local community is equally important. For Sarawak, this vision should also open up opportunities for young people to develop expertise in the fields of biomedical science, botanical research, genomics, clinical research and related professions.

"In that regard, I welcome the dialogue between the institutions and experts present here regarding potential cooperation with Sarawak in the field of research, education, professional training and knowledge exchange," he said.

He said this while speaking during the International Conference on Integrative Medicine 2026 (IIMC 2026) here on Monday.

Commenting further, Datuk Patinggi Abang Zohari said that the development of human capital in the field of medicine and specialised research must be emphasised to ensure that Sarawak has highly skilled local professionals.

He explained that exposure to international expertise as well as joint training and research opportunities can open up wider career paths for Sarawak's young people, particularly in the fields of biomedical science, botanical research, genomics and clinical research.

In a related development, he said, research collaborations that successfully prove aspects of safety, effectiveness and practical value also have the potential to open opportunities for commercialisation in a responsible manner, supporting the growth of local enterprises.

Accordingly, he encouraged international experts and institutions participating in the conference to explore opportunities for collaboration with Sarawak, particularly in knowledge sharing, expertise development, professional training and joint research. -UKASnews