JOHOR BAHRU, June 13 – The Faculty of Science, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), proudly welcomes Dato’ Dr. Bugs Tan Yeow Kiang as its newly appointed Adjunct Professor for a one-year term effective from 1 June 2026 to 31 May 2027. The appointment reflects UTM’s commitment to strengthening academia–industry-government collaboration and advancing innovation-driven education, research and talent development.

Dato’ Dr. Bugs Tan currently serves as the Science Advisor to the Deputy Chief Minister II of Penang, where he plays a strategic role in shaping state-level initiatives related to science, technology, innovation and workforce development. With more than two decades of experience spanning industry, government and academia, he is widely recognised for his contributions to Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education, innovation ecosystems, technology adoption and talent development in Malaysia.

An accomplished innovation strategist and advisor, Dato’ Dr. Bugs Tan has been instrumental in strengthening Penang’s STEM and Technical and Skills-Based TVET (TSL-TVET) ecosystem, facilitating public-private partnerships and supporting the development of a highly skilled workforce for advanced manufacturing and high-technology industries. His efforts have also contributed significantly to Penang’s reputation as the “Silicon Valley of the East.”

The appointment is expected to bring valuable industry perspectives and strategic insights to the Faculty of Science, particularly in areas related to innovation, entrepreneurship, technology transfer, intellectual property management and research commercialisation. Through his role as Adjunct Professor, Dato’ Dr. Bugs Tan will contribute to curriculum enhancement, deliver seminars and professional sharing sessions and mentor academic staff and researchers in translating research outcomes into impactful innovations and industry collaborations.

According to the Faculty of Science, the appointment aligns with its aspiration to strengthen engagement with industry leaders and innovation practitioners who can enrich the learning experience of students while enhancing the relevance and impact of academic research. The faculty believes that Dato’ Dr. Bugs Tan’s extensive experience in science policy, innovation strategy and ecosystem development will provide valuable guidance in nurturing future-ready graduates and fostering a culture of innovation within the university community.

Dean of the Faculty of Science, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Shafinaz Shahir expressed confidence that the appointment would further enhance the faculty’s efforts in promoting innovation and research excellence. The faculty has fully supported the appointment, recognising Dato’ Dr. Bugs Tan’s expertise and leadership in innovation, technology entrepreneurship and research commercialisation.

As UTM continues to strengthen its network of distinguished industry and community leaders, the appointment of Dato’ Dr. Bugs Tan marks another significant step towards fostering meaningful collaborations that bridge knowledge, innovation and societal impact.