Sabah:A new book titled "The Transformative Integrated Living Lab (TILL): From Philosophy to Practice" offers insights into Sabah's biodiversity, local knowledge, and community-focused initiatives. Published by Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS), the book serves as a model for other universities interested in adopting the Living Lab concept.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Sabah and Sarawak) Datuk Mustapha Sakmud emphasized the book's potential to extend its concepts beyond Sabah, reaching other states and international audiences. He noted that the book illustrates how research findings are utilized to enhance the socioeconomic conditions of local communities.
Mustapha made these comments during the book's launch at the Sabah International Convention Centre. Also in attendance were UMS Vice-Chancellor Professor Datuk Dr. Kasim Mansor and the book's author, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation) Prof. Dr. Rosalam Sarbatly.
The book is positioned as a valuable reference for academics and students, detailing UMS's methodologies and approaches within the context of Sabah's unique local knowledge. Mustapha highlighted the importance of documenting these experiences for broader academic dissemination.
Prof. Dr. Rosalam Sarbatly explained that the book draws from his experiences since 2022, aiming to develop a Living Lab framework suitable for Malaysia and Sabah. He contrasted this with European models, noting that Sabah's approach considers the intricate connection between its environment, society, and economy.
He further articulated that the Living Lab should prioritize solving real-world issues and meeting the needs of local communities and ecosystems, rather than being solely technology-oriented.