Communication 21 Media Group and Prof. Zhang Hongkai Sign Landmark MOU to Advance Stem Cell Innovation in Malaysia for ASEAN

Lee Khai Jun

• 2 min read
Communication 21 Media Group and Prof. Zhang Hongkai Sign Landmark MOU to Advance Stem Cell Innovation in Malaysia for ASEAN

KUALA LUMPUR, 29 September 2025 – Communication 21 Media Group today signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with renowned Professor Zhang Hongkai to establish Malaysia as a regional hub for stem cell innovation, research, and clinical application across ASEAN.

The MOU outlines a strategic collaboration to:

  • Expand stem cell operations in Malaysia to serve the ASEAN region.
  • Establish a state-of-the-art cell laboratory and explore the creation of an AI-enabled Stem Cell Hospital, integrating biotechnology with artificial intelligence.
  • Transfer Professor Zhang’s groundbreaking research, discoveries, and innovations into Malaysia, positioning the country as a center of excellence for regenerative medicine in ASEAN.

The MOU was facilitated by Mr. Fan Yongxin, Vice Chairman of HKM Investment Society and Advisor to the GC-BREC (Global Confederation of Belt and Road Economic Cooperation), and was witnessed by Dr. Owen Jia (贾丽军博士), Chairman of the IECIA and founder of the internationally renowned ECI Awards.

Dr. (h.c.) Benny Yeo (杨镇宾博士), Founder of Communication 21 Media Group, said:
“ASEAN’s industrial and healthcare sectors face fragmentation and limited cross-border connectivity, while China’s enterprises and innovators face barriers entering ASEAN. Through this collaboration with Professor Zhang, we are not only addressing these gaps but also building Malaysia into a regional leader in regenerative medicine. Our mission through the ASEAN-Connect (东盟互联互通倡议) and China-To-ASEAN (中国至东盟倡议) platforms is to create sustainable structures that empower industries, accelerate healthcare innovation, and strengthen China–ASEAN collaboration.”

Professor Zhang Hongkai added:
“Stem cell science is at the threshold of changing healthcare as we know it. By bringing our research and discoveries into Malaysia, we are ensuring that ASEAN becomes part of this transformation. The establishment of a cell laboratory and AI-driven Stem Cell Hospital will provide a platform to deliver advanced therapies and bring hope to millions across the region.”

Strategic Significance:

  • Healthcare transformation: The partnership places Malaysia at the forefront of stem cell and regenerative medicine in ASEAN.
  • Industrial connectivity: Supports Communication 21 Media Group’s mission as the architect of ASEAN–China industrial and commercial collaboration.
  • Global partnerships: Backed by GC-BREC and IECIA, the initiative ensures strong international recognition and industry credibility.