Sunway University recently organized an impactful symposium aimed at promoting research integrity. This significant event was moderated by the University’s Provost, Professor Abhimanyu Veerakumarasivam, and attracted notable guests from Taiwan, Japan, and the Republic of Korea, representing various universities and ministries. The symposium provided a platform for researchers and students to engage in meaningful discussions centered on education and research, highlighting the fundamental values that guide their efforts and the importance of making substantial contributions to society.

Opening Remarks on Core Values

Professor Abhimanyu commenced the event with an inspiring address, welcoming all participants and emphasizing the core values of Integrity, Excellence, and Humility. He described Sunway University as ‘research-focused’ and ‘impact-driven’, underscoring the relevance of the symposium’s theme.

Plenary Sessions on Research Integrity

The symposium included a series of plenary sessions featuring distinguished speakers who addressed essential aspects of research integrity. Professor Khatijah Yusoff from Malaysia emphasized the importance of promoting responsible research conduct and discussed the Malaysian Code of Responsible Conduct in Research (MCRCR). She introduced a self-paced online MCRCR course designed to foster responsible research practices within higher education.

Professor Jun Fudano from the Toyota Foundation shared insights on enhancing research integrity across Asia through the Asia Pacific Research Integrity (APRI) initiative. He focused on the challenges in creating misconduct guidelines and issues related to e-learning, outlining significant initiatives aimed at developing laws, policies, and guidelines to strengthen research integrity in the region.

Professor In Jae Lee from Seoul National University of Education provided an overview of governance concerning responsible conduct of research (RCR) in South Korea, highlighting national laws and guidelines that have advanced ethical standards within the research community.

In addition, Professor Chien Chou discussed strategies for promoting research integrity in Taiwan, particularly through innovative approaches such as gamification. He also reflected on past misconduct cases to encourage accountability in research practices.

Interactive Forum and Conclusion

The symposium concluded with an interactive forum, moderated by Professor Abhimanyu, allowing attendees to engage directly with the speakers. This session facilitated valuable discussions and reinforced the collective commitment to research integrity across the region.

Overall, the symposium served as a crucial platform for knowledge-sharing and collaboration among researchers devoted to upholding integrity in their work, showcasing Sunway University’s dedication to generating positive societal impacts through research.