MoU marks KAO’s first academic partnership in Malaysia, pledging RM50,000 towards skincare research and community wellbeing.
KAO Malaysia, through its leading skincare brand Bioré, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Universiti Malaya (UM), marking its first-ever academic partnership in the country. The collaboration follows the successful Skin Protection, Life Perfection campaign and reinforces a shared mission to advance public health through skincare education and research.
As part of the partnership, KAO Malaysia will contribute RM50,000 to two key initiatives led by UM:
- “Beautiful Change Begins with Us”, a UMCares programme promoting hygiene awareness, sustainability, and mental wellness across communities.
- “Innovative Clean Skincare Formulations for Skin Protection and Healthy Living”, a Faculty of Science-led research project on next-gen skincare solutions.
The initiatives are also part of KAO’s 1% pledge of Bioré sales towards supporting local skin health research.
“This partnership reflects KAO’s commitment to go beyond product innovation and create meaningful, science-driven impact in the communities we serve,” said Mr. Yamazaki Hirobumi, President of KAO Malaysia. “Skin protection is not just personal care — it’s a public health responsibility.”
Bridging Science, Skincare, and Society
The MoU, signed by KAO Malaysia President Mr. Yamazaki Hirobumi and UM Vice-Chancellor Professor Dato’ Seri Ir. Dr. Noor Azuan Abu Osman, represents a milestone in academia-industry collaboration. Watsons Malaysia, a key retail partner, also witnessed the ceremony.
With UM’s expertise in research and KAO’s leadership in skincare innovation, the partnership aims to turn academic findings into real-world solutions — from advancing clean formulations to strengthening nationwide skincare education.
“This MoU marks a meaningful step forward in bridging science and society,” said Assoc. Prof. ChM. Dr. Noraini Ahmad, Director of UM Community Engagement Centre (UMCares). “Together, we can transform research into solutions that benefit communities nationwide.”
A Campaign With Lasting Impact
Launched in May 2025 with Watsons, the Skin Protection, Life Perfection campaign highlighted skin health as the foundation of confidence. Beyond consumer engagement and exclusive member perks, the campaign pledged 1% of Bioré sales to support research and education — a commitment now reinforced through this long-term collaboration with Universiti Malaya.
For more information on KAO Malaysia’s initiatives, visit www.kao.com/my.