Fourier Rehab and University Malaya Medical Centre Ink MOU, Aspiring to Establish a Strategic Joint Lab to Pioneer Breakthroughs in Rehabilitation Technology Research
December 12, 2024
KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA 12th December 2024 - Fourier Rehab, a global leader in robotics and rehabilitation technology, has partnered with the University Malaya Medical Centre (UMMC) to establish an advanced joint lab dedicated to rehabilitation technology research. This collaboration signifies a shared commitment to innovation in rehabilitation, to achieve better patient outcomes, and to promote the adoption of intelligent rehabilitation systems across the region.
In addition, it aims to drive the industry further, allowing Malaysia to become one of the top hubs for rehabilitation technology and robotics research, as well as utilization and treatment. Held at the University Malaya Medical Centre’s main tower, the partnership was solidified by Owen Teoh, Managing Director of Fourier Rehab’s International Division, alongside Professor Dr. Nazirah Hasnan, Director of University Malaya Medical Centre.
Figure 1: The MOU Signing Ceremony between Fourier Rehab and University Malaya Medical Centre.
From left to right: Professor Dr. Mazlina Mazlan, Head of Department, Rehabilitation Medicine; Owen Teoh, Managing Director of Fourier Rehab International Division; Professor Dr. Nazirah Hasnan, Director of UMMC; Sarah Lim, Support Services Director of Fourier Rehab International Division.
The WHO estimates that over 1 billion people are affected by disabilities that impact their mobility and independence. There is a growing market demand for more sophisticated rehabilitation solutions to meet the needs of aging populations and patients needing neurological rehab. This partnership represents a shift toward broader assistive technologies across various physical therapy contexts.
Since its inception in 2015, Fourier Rehab has already established a diverse portfolio of more than 30 products and 200 turnkey solutions. Fourier Rehab specializes in developing advanced robotic exoskeletons and virtual reality-based therapy platforms to address needs for upper, lower, balance, and movement impairments. Coupled with gamified therapy, these innovations enable healthcare providers to deliver personalized and effective rehabilitation programs, improving the patient’s overall recovery outcomes and quality of life.
Figure 2: Owen Teoh, Managing Director of Fourier Rehab, with his opening remarks at the ceremony.
“Fourier Rehab is honored to be working with the University Malaya Medical Centre on this joint lab that creates a synergistic convergence of technology, engineering expertise, and clinical practice, enabling us to harness our robotics capabilities in addressing real-world rehabilitation problems in healthcare. Coupled with UMMC’s expertise, we are defining a new paradigm in rehabilitative care that will propel Malaysia into becoming Asia's epicenter of rehabilitation research”, shared Owen Teoh.
“At UMMC, we envision a synergy where healthcare expertise meets cutting-edge technology. This partnership is beneficial for patients and an investment in the future of healthcare systems globally. Together, we can address workforce shortages, optimize resources, and expand access to robotic rehabilitation,” said Professor Dr. Nazirah Hasnan in her opening remarks.
This collaboration further cements Fourier Rehab’s commitment to strengthening the healthcare ecosystem in Malaysia and setting global standards in rehabilitation technology. With plans already underway to establish a fully equipped facility dedicated to exploring the latest rehabilitation advancements, the lab is positioned to benefit patients directly while building a comprehensive knowledge base to support healthcare professionals, researchers, and policymakers.
Figure 3: The various heads of UMMC departments attended the intimate ceremony, which included rehab doctors, therapists, researchers, and engineers.
Key Focus Areas of the Fourier Rehab-UMMC Joint Lab:
Development of Intelligent Rehabilitation Devices: Creating robotics-driven therapy devices that adapt to individual patient needs, enabling efficient and personalized therapy plans.
Patient-Centric Rehabilitation Programs: Using data insights to refine treatment protocols for faster, more effective recovery.
Clinical Trials and Studies: Conducting clinical trials to validate the efficacy and safety of new rehabilitation technologies, fostering innovations with a focus on patient well-being.
Education and Knowledge Exchange: Organizing workshops, seminars, and clinical training to bridge the gap between technology and clinical practice for rehabilitation professionals.
About Fourier Rehab
Fourier Rehab, the rehabilitation technology arm of Fourier (formerly Fourier Intelligence), specializes in developing exoskeletons and rehabilitation robotics. Our primary goal is to achieve positive clinical outcomes for therapists and patients through innovative solutions.
At Fourier Rehab, we strongly believe in the power of collaboration. By working closely with researchers, therapists, and patients, we strive to create cutting-edge rehabilitation robotic solutions that enhance the well-being of humanity.
Our mission is to elevate patient recovery through advanced robotics technology. We are committed to providing user-friendly systems to improve lives, ensuring our technologies meet real-world needs and contribute to a brighter, healthier future for all.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Martin OOI, Marketing Manager
Fourier Rehab International Division
Email: martin.ooi@fftai.sg
