KAO Malaysia and Universiti Malaya sign MoU to shape skincare as a pillar of community health

Renowned skincare brand KAO Malaysia and Universiti Malaya (UM) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that formalises their mutual commitment towards the advancement of skincare education and research.

Officially signed between the President of KAO Malaysia, Mr Yamazaki Hirobumi and the Vice-Chancellor of Universiti Malaya, Professor Dato’ Seri Ir. Dr. Noor Azuan Abu Osman, the MoU represents KAO Malaysia’s first academic partnership with an educational institution in Malaysia.

“We are truly honoured to collaborate with KAO Malaysia in strengthening the bridge between science and society,” said Associate Professor ChM. Dr. Noraini Ahmad, Director of UM Community Engagement Centre (UMCares). “This MoU marks a meaningful step forward, opening doors to transform academic research into real-world solutions – from advancing clean formulation development to fostering greater community engagement.”

“This partnership reflects KAO’s commitment to going beyond product innovation to create meaningful, science-driven impact in the communities we serve,” said Mr. Yamazaki Hirobumi, President of KAO Malaysia. “We believe that skin protection is not just a personal care choice, but a public health responsibility. Together with Universiti Malaya, we are proud to advance this vision for the benefit of all Malaysians.”

KAO Malaysia will be contributing RM50,000 in funding via their skincare brand Biore into a community engagement programme called ‘Beautiful Changes Beings with Us’ managed by the Universiti Malaya Community Engagement CEntre (UMCares) and also into a research collaboration project dubbed ‘Innovative Clean Skincare Formulations for Skin Protection and Healthy Living’ that will be conducted by the Faculty of Science, Universiti Malaya. For more information about KAO’s initiatives in Malaysia, visit: www.kao.com/my