By Amanda L
KOTA SAMARAHAN, Oct 21: The PhenomeSk initiative is expected to position the Sarawak Infectious Disease Centre (SIDC) and the State as a global hub for research, development, and innovation in the field of phenomics, said Minister for Education, Innovation and Talent Development Dato Sri Roland Sagah Wee Inn.
Speaking at the launch of the Sarawak Infectious Disease Centre (SIDC) & Science Centre Open Day at the Sarawak Tropical Peat Research Institute (TROPI) today, he said that the five-year initiative aims to establish a comprehensive, population-based prospective database, alongside a robust pathogen database and biological materials repository.
“By investing in such forward-thinking projects, we are not just preparing for the future; we are actively shaping it.
“These centres are more than just buildings; they are hubs of innovation where local problems are met with global solutions, and where our talented young people can turn their curiosity into groundbreaking contributions,” he said.
According to ScienceDirect, phenomics is the systematic study of a large set of phenotypes used to describe an organism. In biomedical informatics, the phenome is defined as symptoms, physical findings, and disease diagnoses that describe patients for medical care.
Meanwhile, speaking about the event with the theme “Connecting Communities Through Science and Research,” he said it embodies the State’s mission to make science a shared endeavour that strengthens unity and drives innovation.
He expressed optimism at the strong turnout of students, describing them as the future innovators, scientists, and leaders of Sarawak.
“The SIDC and Science Centre initiatives are key pillars under the Sarawak Maju Makmur agenda guided by the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, which is designed to transform Sarawak into a data- and innovation-driven society that promotes economic prosperity, social inclusivity, and human capital development,” he said.
Deputy Minister for Education, Innovation and Talent Development and SIDC chairman Datuk Dr Annuar Rapaee; Ministry of Education, Innovation and Talent Development permanent secretary Datu Adana Jed; Sarawak Research and Development Council (SRDC) general manager and Sarawak Science Centre managing director Dr Peter Morin Nissom; and SIDC chief executive officer (CEO) Associate Prof Dr Ivan Yap Kok Seng were among those present. — DayakDaily
