Penang, June 30 — In a landmark move that bridges heritage with science, Ghee Hiang, Malaysia’s iconic sesame oil brand, formalised two academic partnerships today aimed at advancing scientific research into the health benefits of its premium sesame oil.
Held at Ghee Hiang’s headquarters in George Town, the official Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) and Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) exchange ceremony brought together top representatives from Universiti Kuala Lumpur (UniKL) and Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), signalling a joint commitment to scientific collaboration and public health.
The MoA with UniKL and MoU with USM will enable targeted research into the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties of sesame oil. The initiative is seen as a significant step forward in validating traditional health beliefs through modern science.
“Being a responsible heritage brand dedicated to creating a safe and healthy society, Ghee Hiang has always stood for trust, tradition, and quality,” said Dato’ Chng Huck Theng, Executive Director of Ghee Hiang. “We believe heritage and innovation can go hand in hand. This initiative reflects our long-term vision to contribute meaningfully to both the health sector and the academic community.”
Also present at the event were Puan Nor Liza binti Mohamad, Senior Assistant Director of the Halal Management Division (JHEAIPP), representing the Deputy Chief Minister of Penang I, YB Dato’ Dr. Mohamad bin Abdul Hamid, and YB Daniel Gooi Zi Sen, Penang State EXCO for Youth, Sports & Health.
YB Daniel Gooi, in his speech, lauded the collaboration as a “powerful synergy between Penang’s rich cultural heritage and forward-looking scientific research.” He added that the state government fully supports efforts to strengthen food safety and quality, especially for products used during postnatal care — a longstanding use of Ghee Hiang sesame oil among Malaysian families.
Representing the academic institutions were Professor Ir. Dr. Azman Senin, President/CEO of UniKL, and Professor Dr. Azlan Amran, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Industry and Community Network) of USM.
The partnership underscores growing interest in plant-based wellness solutions and bioscience-backed nutrition. Ghee Hiang, established in 1856, has long been a trusted name in Malaysian households, especially among new mothers during the confinement period.
With this collaboration, the brand now looks to the future — one where traditional remedies meet the rigour of scientific validation.
