Putrajaya, 14 November 2025 — The Institute for Research in Molecular Medicine (INFORMM), Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), proudly announced the success of two of its researchers who were honoured at the Festival of Ideas (FOI) 2025, organised by the Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE). The prestigious event celebrated recipients of the Fundamental Research Grant Scheme (FRGS) and Prototype Research Grant Scheme (PRGS).

Dr Kumitaa Theva Das received the PRGS award for her groundbreaking project, “CRISPR-Based HIV Therapy: Monitoring the Dosing and Safety Profile In Vivo”, with a grant allocation of RM202,000. Her research focuses on harnessing CRISPR technology to develop innovative HIV therapies, with emphasis on safety and dosing in preclinical models.

Associate Professor Dr Oon Chern Ein was awarded the FRGS grant worth RM152,820.00 for her project, “Elucidating the Role of BZD9L1 Sirtuin Inhibitor in Autophagy Regulation in Colorectal Cancer”. Her study aims to uncover new insights into cancer biology and explore potential therapeutic pathways for colorectal cancer treatment.

The awards were presented by the Director General of Higher Education, Datuk Professor Dr. Azlinda Azman, together with the USM Vice-Chancellor, Profesor Dato' Seri Ir. Dr. Abdul Rahman Mohamed, FASc., and the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research & Innovation), Profesor Dr. Habibah A. Wahab, in recognition of the recipients’ outstanding contributions to advancing Malaysia’s research excellence.

This recognition highlights INFORMM’s commitment to nurturing excellence in research and innovation, while empowering its scientists to address pressing health challenges and inspire the next generation of Malaysian researchers.