KAO Malaysia and Universiti Malaya Forge Milestone Partnership with MoU to Advance Skin Health Education and Research

KAO Malaysia and Universiti Malaya (UM) have officially completed the “Skin Protection, Life Perfection” campaign with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), formalising a long-term partnership dedicated to advancing public health through skincare education and scientific research.

Under this collaboration, KAO Malaysia, through its leading skincare brand Bioré, is contributing RM50,000 towards two flagship initiatives led by Universiti Malaya:

• “Beautiful Change Begins with Us” – a community engagement programme managed by UMCares, focusing on hygiene awareness, environmental sustainability, and mental wellness among teenagers, adults, and children.
• “Innovative Clean Skincare Formulations for Skin Protection and Healthy Living” – a research collaboration with UM’s Faculty of Science, dedicated to developing new skincare solutions that promote healthy living.

The initiatives are supported by KAO Malaysia’s pledge to donate 1% of Bioré product sales to local skin health research, reflecting the brand’s commitment to contributing beyond product innovation.

“This partnership reflects KAO’s commitment to going beyond product innovation to create meaningful, science-driven impact in the communities we serve,” said Mr Yamazaki Hirobumi, President of KAO Malaysia. “Skin protection is not just a personal care choice, but a public health responsibility. Together with Universiti Malaya, we are proud to advance this vision for the benefit of all Malaysians.”

A Milestone Partnership Between Academia and Industry

The MoU marks KAO Malaysia’s first academic partnership in the country, laying the foundation for long-term collaboration between industry and academia. Guided by the shared vision of “Skin Protection, Life Perfection,” the campaign has evolved from a public awareness initiative into a structured partnership that combines community outreach with scientific research.

“We are truly honoured to collaborate with KAO Malaysia in strengthening the bridge between science and society,” said Associate Professor ChM. Dr. Noraini Ahmad, Director of UMCares. “This MoU marks a meaningful step forward, opening doors to transform academic research into real-world solutions – from advancing clean formulation development to fostering greater community engagement.”

The MoU was signed between Mr Yamazaki Hirobumi, President of KAO Malaysia, and Professor Dato’ Seri Ir. Dr. Noor Azuan Abu Osman, Vice-Chancellor of Universiti Malaya, with Watsons Malaysia as a witness to the exchange. The ceremony also featured a symbolic donation handover, reinforcing the commitment of all parties towards impactful collaboration.

Laying the Foundation for Lifelong Skin Health

Launched in May 2025 in partnership with Watsons Malaysia, the “Skin Protection, Life Perfection” campaign emphasized skin protection as a cornerstone of confidence and overall well-being. Powered by Bioré’s “Cleanse. Protect.” philosophy, the initiative combined expert education, engaging consumer experiences, and a 1% sales donation pledge to support local research.

With the signing of the MoU, this partnership now moves into its next phase – advancing research, sustainability, and education in skin health for lasting community benefits across Malaysia.