Asia Pacific Journal of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, 2004
Vol. 12 (1&2) : 1

Letter from the Editor

‘...Change is the only Constant...’

Lao Tzu

We celebrate the launch of this Inaugural 2004 Online Issue of the Asia Pacific Journal of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology. Over the years, our subscribers, members of the society and associates have found the journal to be very useful both in terms of facilitating peer reviewed scientific communication as well as providing a platform for some relevant updates and happenings in the region. The journal is indeed no longer what it was like ‘in those days’ as those days have passsed, the people have moved on and we now face new scenarios and challenges.

The Editorial Board felt that it was imperative that the APJMBB be made available to a wider readership within the region. With two hardcopy issues per year available only to life members of the society and personal/institutional subscribers, part time staff, the issue of sustainability in the ever changing world of scientific publications, and requirements of citation indices, we recognized that a major change was required.

During the course of this year, members of the editorial team have been working closely with the Malaysian Society of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, the World Health Organization and our corporate sponsors to realize our vision and full support of Open Access publication. This means that as for as long as it remains feasible, authors will continue to receive reprints. Hard copies of the journal will eventually be phased out.

We shall do out best to inform our readers, contributors and institutions of the latest developments and will strive to make the online version as user friendly as possible. In fact, I have received positive feedback from some readers who like what they have seen on our website at http://www.msmbb.org.my. Do remember to bookmark this site. I have found that it is easier to access with the Google search engine. Try it yourself and email us if there is a problem, we’d be happy to be of assistance.

The Editorial board thanks you for your support. Keep publishing.

All Best Wishes for 2005.

Chief Editor
Maude E. Phipps

As. Pac. J. Mol. Biol. & Biotech., Dec 2002
Vol. 10 (2) : 73

Letter from the Editor

This edition marks the 10th anniversary of this journal and I believe the coming of age of molecular biology and biotechnology in the region. The Human Genome sequence will be completed in 2003 and the World Health Organization has recently launched the global Genomics and Health Initiative.

Most biotechnology and genomics research is being carried out in the industrialized world although it is heartening to note that the pace is increasing in our region. The current development of methodologies and new therapies are primarily market driven. While the pace of science and technology progresses ahead, several crucial factors in developing countries, specifically those in the Asia Pacific Region may determine the course of events. The majority of the world’s population and natural resources are here. Many of the disease groups and new diseases are emerging. The market size and number of potential consumers is huge. Technological advances may be quite easily transferred providing the population is educated and trained. Issues encompassing intellectual property, biopiracy, exploitation, fear of being left behind, the genomics divide and the impact of globalization are of concern. Initiatives must be taken within the developing countries in the region and perhaps elsewhere to initiate and maintain the necessary scientific, legal, social and ethical capacities required to cope with the tides that determine our future.

The Board of Editors thanks you for your sustained interest and contributions over the years. I wish to draw your attention to some recent changes we have made to further improve the quality of the journal to better serve your interests. We have now several regional editors based in Australia, Indonesia, Thailand and Mexico who will facilitate the initial assessments of manuscripts. The international advisory board has been trimmed and streamlined. We will expand it when opportunities present themselves so that we do get scientists of the highest quality and dedication. We are also receiving cooperate sponsorship which helps us maintain the current nominal subscription and publication rates. Contributors are advised to read carefully the revised instructions to authors to ensure that all relevant information is present, upon submission of manuscripts. You are also asked to suggest the names and contact information of at least 2 potential reviewers who are familiar with your field of work. I cannot over emphasize the requirement for complete references. Failure to do so will result in unnecessary delay or rejection. Kindly appreciate that we have to conform to international publishing standards. With your co-operation, we will ensure that publication is conducted in a timely manner.

Once again, thank you. Keep publishing

Chief Editor
Maude E. Phipps

Dear Distinguished MSMBB Members,

It is an honour and a privilege to assume the esteemed role of the President of the Malaysian Society for Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (MSMBB) from 2023 to 2025. As I take on this responsibility, I am deeply grateful for the trust you have placed in me and for the remarkable work of my predecessors in nurturing and advancing our society.

First and foremost, I extend my heartfelt appreciation to the outgoing President and the dedicated committees who have tirelessly worked to propel MSMBB to its current position of eminence. Driven by their vision and commitment, we have achieved notable successes and fostered a vibrant community of scientists and researchers.

Under the leadership of my immediate predecessor, we have made significant strides in consolidating our standing in the scientific community. It is with immense gratitude that we acknowledge the guidance and expertise that Professor Dr Lau Yee Ling has provided, and we are fortunate to continue benefiting from her wisdom as she transitions to the role of Past President.

I also extend my heartfelt appreciation to our members and partners who have steadfastly supported MSMBB in its mission to promote collaboration and scientific excellence in molecular biology, cellular biology, and biotechnology. Your dedication and contributions are the bedrock upon which our society stands.

Moreover, I am pleased to introduce the esteemed editors who will lead our flagship publication, the Asia Pacific Journal of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (APJMBB). Associate Professor Dr M.S. Kanthimathi, the Editor-in-Chief, is joined by Dr Michelle Teo Yee Mun (Managing Editor) and Associate Professor Dr Wang Seok Mui (Assistant Managing Editor) to oversee and manage the journal's editorial operations. Their expertise and dedication will undoubtedly contribute to our journal's continued success and impact.

Over the next two years, we embark on a continued growth and excellence journey. Our primary goal is to expand the horizons of scientific discovery and its practical applications while fostering research collaboration and STEM education. To achieve this, we are committed to the following key initiatives:

1. Enhancing Education and Outreach: We will intensify our efforts to nurture the next generation of scientists and educators through our STEM educational programmes, including offering grants and educational resources to support these initiatives. Additionally, we will strengthen our outreach programmes to engage with schools and the broader community to promote scientific literacy.
2. Promoting Research Collaboration: Collaboration is at the heart of scientific progress. We will actively facilitate collaboration among our members, encouraging interdisciplinary research and forging partnerships with other scientific societies and organisations nationally and internationally.
3. Elevating Scientific Discourse: To foster knowledge-sharing and intellectual growth, we will organise seminars/webinars, conferences, and workshops that showcase cutting-edge research and emerging trends in molecular biology and biotechnology. We invite your active participation and contributions to these events.
4. Supporting Innovation: We are committed to supporting innovative research within our community. To achieve this, we will introduce awards to recognise and honour outstanding scientists who have significantly contributed to molecular biology and biotechnology.

As we move forward, I encourage all members to actively engage with MSMBB and play an integral role in shaping the future of our society. Your insights, ideas, and expertise are invaluable, and I welcome your active participation in our endeavours.

MSMBB's vision is to be a dynamic force driving scientific progress, collaboration, and innovation in molecular biology and biotechnology. Together, we can achieve remarkable milestones and contribute significantly to advancing science and improving society.

I am excited about the possibilities that lie ahead and am committed to working tirelessly to ensure that MSMBB continues to thrive and evolve. I look forward to the journey ahead and the collective achievements we will celebrate together.

Thank you for entrusting me with this role, and I am eager to work alongside you all to achieve our shared vision.

Warm regards,

Boon Chin Tan   

As. Pac. J. Mol. Biol. & Biotech., Dec 2004 Vol. 12, 49-52