📬 AIER New Year Message

As we welcome a new year, I am reminded of the profound interconnectedness that defines our world today. Research and technology transfer are often perceived as the domains of academia or the tech community.

However, this oversimplification misses a crucial truth: research and technology transfer happens everywhere and involves everyone. Wherever there is thought, collaboration, and the exchange of ideas, there is the transference of knowledge—a shared intellectual journey spanning ideation to commercialisation.

This dynamic process brings extraordinary opportunities but also significant responsibilities. At AIER, we recognise that while we strive to harness the positive outcomes of innovation, we must remain vigilant against the risks it may pose.

Opportunities and risks are two sides of the same coin. We emphasise safeguarding critical elements such as Intangible Technology Transfer (ITT), dual-use considerations, and robust export controls.

Our goal is to prevent misuse—knowingly or unknowingly—of research outcomes and to ensure that they do not contribute to illicit activities, from smuggling and human rights violations to the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction.

In today’s borderless, interconnected world, it is imperative that we understand our collaborators, customers, and end users. Responsible research is a global endeavour that calls for collective action.

Together, we must ensure that the entire spectrum—from ideation to commercialisation—is adequately protected and adheres to ethical standards while complying with domestic Strategic Trade Acts and global frameworks such as the United Nations Security Council Resolution 1540 (UNSCR 1540).

As we enter another year, AIER reaffirms its commitment to fostering innovation while advocating for robust governance and policy-making. Anchored in our network of ASEAN chapters, we will continue to build a secure and collaborative ecosystem where Safe Research is a priority and a standard.

I extend my gratitude to our partners, collaborators, and the broader community and invite you to join us in shaping a future where research and innovation thrive responsibly, sustainably, and inclusively.

Together, let us advance a global culture of mutual accountability, enabling progress that uplifts and protects us all.

Here’s to a new year of innovation, collaboration, and shared responsibility.

Dr. Olivia Tan
President, AIER