Past Events, Reports and Presentations

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				Background				
				
								
				
				Program Highlights and Topics				
				
								
				
				Venue				
				
								
				
				About the Organizers				
				
								
				
				About the Sponsors				
				
				
	
					
						Background
					
						
The gut microbiota is a complex and diverse ecosystem comprising over 100 trillion microorganisms located predominantly in the distal gut and plays essential roles in nutrient absorption and metabolism, protection against pathogens, regulation of immune function, and strengthening of the gut and intestinal barriers. Increasing evidence recognises a healthy gut microbiota as a critical determinant of human health, while alterations in its composition and functionality, often referred to as microbial dysbiosis, are associated with metabolic disorders and pathological processes such as inflammatory bowel disease, obesity, metabolic syndrome, autism, and certain cancers. Among the many factors that influence the diversity and composition of the gut microbiota, dietary factors are considered one of the main drivers across the lifetime.
This symposium, co-organized by Food Safety and Quality Programme (FSQP), Ministry of Health, Malaysia, and Nutrition Society of Malaysia (NSM), will focus on 3 bioactive dietary factors in promoting healthy gut microbiota, namely prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics, which are increasingly recognised for their potential health benefits to the host. 
Objectives


The symposium aims to:

Provide scientific updates, including their roles in promoting a healthy gut microbiota
Share research, innovative development and applications in food and supplements
Review of regulatory status in SEA countries
Discuss consumer understanding, perception and utilization


					
						Program Highlights and Topics
					
						

					
						Venue
					
						
The1-day symposium will be held at:

M World Hotel Petaling Jaya (Formerly AVANTE Hotel)

Address: 31, Persiaran Bandar Utama, Bandar Utama, 47800 Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia

Website: www.mworldhotel.com.my
					
						About the Organizers
					
						
ORGANIZER
ILSI SEA Region


ILSI Southeast Asia Region (ILSI SEA Region) is a regional branch of the International Life Sciences Institute (ILSI), a nonprofit, worldwide organization whose mission is to provide science that improves human health and well-being, and safeguards the environment. Established in 1978 and headquartered in Washington, DC, USA, ILSI carries out its work through a global network of 10 entities across the world. ILSI has specialized consultative status with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO).

ILSI SEA Region seeks to achieve ILSI's mission by fostering collaboration among experts from academia, government, and industry, to provide a balance of perspectives and ensure its scientific outcomes are useful at the local, national and international levels. Its activities include scientific meetings and conferences, capability development programs, and research and community projects. ILSI SEA Region's scientific programs are guided by the principles of integrity, independence and transparency. By maintaining our neutrality and independence, we have worked closely and effectively with our key stakeholder groups from academia, industry, international organizations and governments.
CO-ORGANIZERS
Nutrition Society of Malaysia
Established in 1985, the Nutrition Society of Malaysia is a non-profit professional organisation with 500 members, comprising mainly of nutritionists. Its objectives are to 1) promote, advance, and disseminate scientific knowledge of food and nutrition, and 2) promote healthy eating and active living amongst all Malaysians. As a professional organisation, NSM is guided by a simple belief - the more people understand food and nutrition, the better they can care for their health and wellbeing. For that reason, NSM supports the advancement of research, sharing practical insights and important discoveries for the benefits for all. NSM also support the Government's efforts in promoting healthy nutrition in the society to combat nutrient deficiencies as well as diet-related chronic diseases in the country (e.g. obesity, diabetes, hypertension and coronary heart disease). In caring for the community, NSM continuously disseminate practical nutrition information to the young and old alike, guiding them to discover the benefits of good nutrition and a healthy lifestyle.
Food Safety and Quality Programme (FSQP), Ministry of Health, Malaysia
					
						About the Sponsors
					
						
Gold Sponsor
Yakult

More than 90 years ago, Dr. Minoru Shirota, the founder of Yakult, pursued preventive medicine and succeeded in strengthening and culturing our representative strain Lacticaseibacillus paracasei strain Shirota (previously known as Lactobacillus casei strain Shirota). He then released an inexpensive, good-tasting fermented milk drink "Yakult" in 1935 so that as many people as possible could benefit from this lactic acid bacteria. Today, about 40 million bottles of our dairy products are consumed in 40 countries and regions across the world.
Since its founding, as a pioneer in the field of Probiotics, Yakult has been expanding our operations to food and beverages, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical products based on scientific evidence. With the passionate desire of our founder, we contribute to the health and happiness of people around the world through the pursuit of excellence in life science in general and our research and experience in microorganisms in particular.
Silver Sponsor
Beneo

Beneo has long-term experience in developing and producing plant-based functional ingredients from natural sources for the food, feed and pharmaceutical industries. By supporting health and optimising taste and texture, they help improve the nutritional and technical properties of a wide variety of products.
Through a unique chain of expertise, BENEO offers customers advice and inspiration on new product ideas that support a healthy lifestyle in a holistic way. This includes the BENEO-Institute that provides decisive insights into nutrition science and legislation, and the BENEO-Technology Center that consults in application technology.
Formed in 2007, BENEO is active in over 80 countries, employs more than 1200 people and has six state-of-the-art production sites in Belgium, Chile, Germany, Italy and the Netherlands that deliver high-quality ingredients at all times.
 
View Full Program(opens in new tab)

			PROGRAM	
	
08:00 - 08:45 hr Registration
	08:45 - 09:00 hr

Opening and Welcome Remarks

Mrs Boon Yee Yeong, ILSI Southeast Asia Region, Singapore

Prof Dr Mahenderan Appukutty, Nutrition Society of Malaysia (NSM), Malaysia


	Keynote Lecture 1 & 2Collapse

Chair: Mr Geoffry Smith, ILSI Southeast Asia Region, Singapore
Featuring the following presentations and speakers:

Keynote Lecture 1: The Human Gut Microbiome Ecosystem in Health and Disease

Prof Patricia Conway, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
Keynote Lecture 2: Healthy Gut Microbiome - the Role of Dietary Factors

Emeritus Prof Margaret Morris, University of New South Wales, Australia

10:20 - 10:40 hr  Q&A

10:40 - 11:00 hr Morning Refreshment Break/ Networking
Session 1: Prebiotics - Current Science and Functional ApplicationsExpand

Chair: Prof Dr Hamid Jan Bin Jan Mohamed, Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), Malaysia
Featuring the following presentations and speakers:

Science, Definition and Applications of Prebiotics for Health  

Dr Stephan Theis, BENEO-Institute, Germany
Decoding the Biological Functions of Human Milk Oligosaccharides: From Human Milk Diversity to Gut-Brain Health

Prof Bing Wang, Charles Sturt University, Australia
HMO Profiles and Maternal Determinants in Multi-Ethnic Asians: Insights from the GUSTO Study  

Dr Han Zhang,Institute for Human Development and Potential (IHDP), A*STAR, Singapore

11:55 - 12:10 hr Q&A

12:10 - 13:00 hr Lunch / Networking
Session 2: Probiotics - From Scientific Evidence to Clinical PracticeExpand

Chair: Prof Teck Yew Low, Sunway University, Malaysia
Featuring the following presentations and speakers:

Effect of Continuous Intake of Fermented Milk with Lacticaseibacillus paracasei strain Shirota on Aflatoxin Exposure

Assoc Prof Dr Mohd Redzwan bin Sabran, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), Malaysia
Food Applications of Probiotics: From Microbiome Science to Health Outcomes  

Dr Chyn Boon Wong, Advanced Research and Technology, Haleon, Singapore
Clinical Practice and Application of Probiotics 

Prof Dr Norfilza Binti Mohd Mokhtar, Research Management Centre (RMC), Management & Science University (MSU), Malaysia

14:00 - 14:15 hr Q&A

13:10 - 14:00 hr Lunch/ Exhibit Viewing / Networking
Session 3: Postbiotics - Emerging Science and Consumer UnderstandingExpand

Chair: Dr Stephan Theis,BENEO-Institute, Germany
Featuring the following presentation and speaker:

Scientific Perspective and Global Consumer Understanding of Postbiotics  

Dr Andy Jin, Royal Agricultural University, United Kingdom
Development of Next Generation Probiotics: Versatile Halal Postbiotics and Cytobiotics  

Prof Dr Hooi Ling Foo, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), Malaysia

14:55 - 15:05 hr  Q&A

15:05 - 15:25 hr  Afternoon Refreshment Break / Networking
Session 4: Regulatory Landscape of Pre-, Pro- and Postbiotics in SEAExpand

Chair: Ms Pauline Chan, ILSI Southeast Asia Region, Philippines
Featuring the following presentations and speakers:

Country sharing: Malaysia  

Ts Nurul Hidayati Mohd Nasir, Food Safety and Quality Programme (FSQP), Ministry of Health Malaysia
Country sharing: China

Prof Dr Xuesong Xiang, Institute of Nutrition and Health, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, China
Country sharing: Thailand 

Ms Dissaya Kittithanavimon,Thai Food and Drug Administration, Ministry of Public Health, Thailand
Country sharing: Indonesia

Prof Purwiyatno Hariyadi,IPB University, Indonesia

16:30 - 16:50 hr Q&A
Panel Discussion: Turning Microbiome Science into Meaningful Health OutcomesExpand
 
16:50 - 17:25 hr Panel Discussion: Turning Microbiome Science into Meaningful Health Outcomes


Moderator: Dr E Siong Tee, TES Nutrihealth Strategic Consultancy, Malaysia
Panelists:

Prof Dr Hooi Ling Foo, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), Malaysia
Dr Chyn Boon Wong, Advanced Research and Technology, Haleon, Singapore
Ts Nurul Hidayati binti Mohd Nasir, Food Safety and Quality Programme (FSQP), Ministry of Health, Malaysia

 
	17:25 - 17:30 hr

Closing Remarks

Mr Geoffry Smith, ILSI Southeast Asia Region, Singapore
End of Symposium
View Full Program(opens in new tab)

			CHAIRPERSONS AND MODERATOR	

					
	
	Mr Geoffry Smith

ILSI Southeast Asia Region, Singapore


Biography
Mr Geoffry Smith, ILSI Southeast Asia Region, Singapore

Mr. Geoff Smith serves as President of ILSI SEA Region based in Singapore, and co-representative to the global ILSI Assembly. ILSI SEA Region was established as a regional branch of the world-wide scientific-foundation ILSI in 1993, covering ASEAN and Australasia. 
Mr. Smith is also the Chairman of the Essential Micronutrients Foundation, a non-profit organization which addresses micronutrient deficiencies globally as a public health issue. He is a past Member of the Executive Committee of the global ILSI Board. Prior to his current positions, Mr. Smith was the Global Director, Health Chelates for AkzoNobel Functional Chemicals. He was responsible for the global project within AkzoNobel addressing iron deficiency anemia, which resulted in completely revised guidelines by the World Health Organization for flour fortification with iron. A thirty-year veteran of the chemical industry in Asia-Pacific and globally, Mr. Smith has resided in Singapore for more than 30 years. 

					
	
	Prof Dr Hamid Jan Bin Jan Mohamed

Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), Malaysia


Biography
Prof Dr Hamid Jan Bin Jan Mohamed, Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), Malaysia

Professor Dr Hamid Jan Bin Jan Mohamed has been a professor at the Nutrition Programme, Universiti Sains Malaysia USM) since 2007. He joined this institution immediately after completing his PhD (Nutrition) at King's College London, United Kingdom. He holds a Master's Degree in Nutrition from Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia and Bachelor's Degree in Nutrition and Community Health from Universiti Putra Malaysia. He received extensive training in laboratory skills from the Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology Course at USM.

The diversity of his educational background contributed to the creation of several novel research related to nutrition and disease in Malaysia. Dr Hamid Jan initiated the first birth cohort in Malaysia named the USM Pregnancy Cohort Study which started in 2009. This cohort was aimed at investigating the role of maternal nutrition, oxidative stress and adipokines in the development of obesity and diabetes. The findings of this study are published in several local and international journals. Currently, Prof. Hamid is working on several intervention projects related to the prevention of stunting in children.

At USM , he is the Deputy Dean of Research, Innovation and Industry-Community Engagement. He also works closely with the Ministry of Health Malaysia as a committee member of the Technical Working Group for Nutrition Guidelines (Children/Adults/Elderly) and other consultative activities. He is currently the Chairman of Technical Working Group (Nutrition Research) for the Ministry of Health Malaysia and is a Science Advisor of ILSI SEA Region. He is  a Council Member of the Developmental Origin of Health and Disease Society (DOHaD). Currently, he is the vice-president of the Nutrition Society of Malaysia. He is the recipient of the Top Research Scientists Malaysia Award 2024 by Academy of Sciences Malaysia.

					
	
	Prof Teck Yew Low

Sunway University, Malaysia


Biography
Prof Teck Yew Low, Sunway University, Malaysia

Professor Low Teck Yew brings over two decades of research experience in proteomics, biological mass spectrometry, and proteogenomics. He is internationally recognized for his high-impact publications, invited talks at global conferences, and leadership roles in prominent scientific organizations. Through active involvement in interdisciplinary projects and a strong international network, he contributes significantly to global proteomics initiatives. Beyond his research, Professor Low is a passionate mentor and educator who fosters critical thinking and intellectual curiosity through innovative teaching methods. His leadership in AOHUPO and HUPO plays a key role in identifying and nurturing the next generation of international research talent.

					
	
	Dr Stephan Theis

BENEO-Institute, Germany
Biography
Dr Stephan Theis, BENEO-Institute, Germany

Dr. Stephan Theis is Head of Nutrition Science and Communication at the BENEO-Institute. He leads global research on the nutritional and health benefits of functional ingredients such as prebiotic dietary fibres and Palatinose™ and oversees scientific communication. Having joined the Südzucker/BENEO Group in 2001, he holds a diploma in Nutrition Science from the University of Giessen and a PhD from the Technical University of Munich. Stephan is a member of the Senior Leadership Team of BENEO and a founding member of the BENEO-Institute inaugurated in 2009. He is actively involved in international scientific committees and collaborative research projects including several Committees of the International Life Science Institute (ILSI) and provides nutritional expertise to regulatory approval work and marketing activities.

					
	
	Ms Pauline Chan

ILSI Southeast Asia Region, Singapore
Biography
Ms Pauline Chan, ILSI Southeast Asia Region, Singapore

As Director of Science Programs, Pauline has extensive experience in developing scientific programs and facilitating dialogue between scientists, government regulators, and industry to address regional and international issues in nutrition, food safety, sustainability and health. A frequently invited resource speaker at conferences and seminars, Ms. Chan is a registered dietitian (RD) with the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Ms. Chan received her M.Sc. in Nutrition and Dietetics from New York University, USA, and her B.Sc. in Chemistry from the Chinese University of Hong Kong.

					
	
	Dr E Siong Tee

TES Nutrihealth Strategic Consultancy, Malaysia
Biography
Dr E Siong Tee, TES Nutrihealth Strategic Consultancy, Malaysia

Dr E Siong Tee has been a Member of the Board of Directors of ILSI SEA Region since 1996 and Scientific Coordinator of ILSI Malaysia Country Committee since 2005. He is currently a Nutrition Consultant for TES NutriHealth Strategic Consultancy. Dr. Tee was Head of the Cardiovascular, Diabetes and Nutrition Research Centre of the Institute for Medical Research (IMR) in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, until his retirement in February 2002, after serving for 30 years. He was President of the Nutrition Society of Malaysia (NSM) till March 2024. In this capacity, he has led the implementation of various community nutrition promotion programs including the Nutrition Month Malaysia programme since 2002. He is also Vice-President of the Federation of Asian Nutrition Societies (FANS). Dr Tee is a member of several Technical Working Groups of the Ministry of Health Malaysia, including the committees related to Malaysian Food Regulations and Codex Alimentarius. He initiated the formation of the Southeast Asia Public Health Nutrition (SEA-PHN) Network in 2014 and is the current Chairman of the Network. Dr Tee is also Adjunct Professor of the IMU University, Malaysia.

			SYMPOSIUM SPEAKERS	

					
	
	Prof Patricia Conway

Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
Biography
Prof Patricia Conway, Singapore Centre for Environmental Life Sciences Engineering (SCELSE), Nanyang Technological University (NTU), Singapore

Prof Patricia Conway is Visiting Professor of the Singapore Centre for Environmental Life Sciences Engineering (SCELSE), Singapore and CEO of PC Biome Pte Ltd. She was Professor at the School of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering and in the Nanyang Technological University (NTU) Food Technology Centre, NTU. She has extensive research and industry R&D experience, including authorship on over 100 scientific papers in international journals, monographs or book chapters, and numerous plenary or keynote lectures at international meetings. She is inventor on over 20 patent applications and Principal Investigator on grants in Sweden, Australia and Singapore. Prof Conway's research interests are gastrointestinal microbiology, functional foods including probiotics and prebiotics. She has a particular focus on bacterial colonization of the gastrointestinal tract and mechanisms of bacterial adhesion, pathogen inhibition and immune modulation in animals and humans in order to develop ways of modulating the microbiome for health.

					
	
	Emeritus Prof Margaret Morris

University of New South Wales, Australia
Biography
Emeritus Prof Margaret Morris, National University of New South Wales, Australia

Emeritus Professor Margaret Morris (FRSN, BScPhD Monash) is a neuropharmacologist who established the Environmental Determinants of Obesity Research lab at UNSW in 2005. Her research addresses critical questions concerning the impact of adverse early life events and lifestyle factors on chronic disease risk, and lifestyle and pharmacological options for intervention. NH&MRC funded work includes intergenerational transmission of obesity and the psychology of eating, e.g. how does provision of a varied, energy rich diet override the control mechanisms that should maintain body weight?  The impacts of maternal obesity, cycling between healthy and unhealthy diets, and time restricted feeding, on metabolic health, composition of the gut microbiome and cognitive function is a key interest.  

Morris was the inaugural Professor and Head of Pharmacology at UNSW. Having held other key academic positions (Melbourne, Deakin, Flinders Universities) educating health professionals (Medicine, Nursing, Optometry, Dentistry, Exercise Science) and Science students, she was instrumental in driving curriculum development and postgraduate training. 

					
	
	Dr Stephan Theis

BENEO-Institute, Germany
Biography
Dr Stephan Theis, BENEO-Institute, Germany

Dr. Stephan Theis is Head of Nutrition Science and Communication at the BENEO-Institute. He leads global research on the nutritional and health benefits of functional ingredients such as prebiotic dietary fibres and Palatinose™ and oversees scientific communication. Having joined the Südzucker/BENEO Group in 2001, he holds a diploma in Nutrition Science from the University of Giessen and a PhD from the Technical University of Munich. Stephan is a member of the Senior Leadership Team of BENEO and a founding member of the BENEO-Institute inaugurated in 2009. He is actively involved in international scientific committees and collaborative research projects including several Committees of the International Life Science Institute (ILSI) and provides nutritional expertise to regulatory approval work and marketing activities.

					
	
	Prof Bing Wang

 Charles Sturt University, Australia
Biography
 Prof Bing Wang, Charles Sturt University, Australia

Professor Bing Wang received her medical degree from Tianjin Medical University, China, and a PhD in Nutritional Biochemistry from the University of Sydney, Australia. She has been a registered Nutritionist with the Nutrition Society of Australia (NSA) since 2008. Before joining Charles Sturt University in December 2012, she led Nutritional Neurodevelopment Research programs in both academia and industry. Her research focuses on elucidating the molecular mechanisms by which nutrient components influence metabolic responses critical for neurodevelopment and cognition from fetal stages to late life, with a strong emphasis on translating basic science into clinical and industrial applications. Professor Wang is internationally recognised for her contributions to Pediatric Nutrition, Nutritional Glycoscience, and Nutritional Neurodevelopment, particularly for advancing understanding of the role of sialic acid, human milk oligosaccharides and lactoferrin in human nutrition. She was elected a Fellow of the NSA in 2023.

					
	
	Dr Han Zhang

 Institute for Human Development and Potential (IHDP), A*STAR, Singapore
Biography
Dr Han Zhang, Institute for Human Development and Potential (IHDP), A*STAR, Singapore

Dr Zhang is a developmental cognitive neuroscientist whose work seeks to deepen the mechanistic understanding of how maternal and early-life environmental factors shape offspring neurodevelopment and mental well-being. Grounded in the Developmental Origins of Health and Disease (DOHaD) framework, her research focuses on identifying plausible targets of neuroplasticity and psychological resilience that promote optimal developmental trajectories. Utilizing neuroimaging (MRI), cognitive-behavioral profiles, and computational modeling, she systemically explores modifiable drivers in relation to brain development. Her current research focuses on how early nutritional exposures-such as Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMOs), which are closely tied to the gut-brain axis, and other nutritional markers-influence offspring neurodevelopment. Dr Zhang actively leverages large-scale birth cohorts and multidisciplinary collaborations, aiming to contribute to evidence-based, actionable insights to inform public health and foster resilient developmental pathways.

					
	
	Assoc Prof Dr Mohd Redzwan bin Sabran

Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), Malaysia
Biography
Assoc Prof Dr Mohd Redzwan bin Sabran, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), Malaysia

Dr. Mohd Redzwan Bin Sabran is an Associate Professor in the Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM). He obtained his bachelor's degree in biomedical science with a specialization in Nutrition from the University of Auckland, New Zealand, in 2010, followed by a PhD in Nutritional Sciences from UPM in 2014. During his doctoral training, he was a Research Scholar at the Molecular Biomarkers Laboratory, University of Georgia, USA (2012-2013), where he gained experience in environmental health and molecular biomarker research. Besides, he is also a Research Associate at the Laboratory of Food Safety and Food Integrity, Institute of Tropical Agriculture and Food Security (ITAFoS), UPM.

His research focuses on nutritional sciences and food safety, with interests in probiotics and prebiotics, dietary strategies to mitigate food contaminant exposure, and the value-added utilization of agricultural by-products. Through two human intervention studies conducted in collaboration with Yakult Honsha Co., Ltd., Japan, and Yakult (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd., his research demonstrated the potential of the probiotic Lacticaseibacillus paracasei strain Shirota (LcS) as a safe, dietary-based approach for reducing aflatoxin exposure in healthy adults. Through his research and collaborative partnerships, he is dedicated to advancing evidence-based nutrition and food safety to improve public health and promote sustainable food systems.

					
	
	Dr Chyn Boon Wong

Advanced Research and Technology, Haleon, Singapore
Biography
Dr Chyn Boon Wong,  Advanced Research and Technology, Haleon, Singapore

 Dr Chyn Boon is a Principal Scientist in the Advanced Research and Technology team at Haleon, based in Singapore. She is a PhD microbiologist with more than 12 years of experience in gut microbiome science, probiotics, postbiotics, healthy ageing, and translational wellness innovation. Her work focuses on translating emerging science into consumer-relevant opportunities through cross-functional R&D leadership, external innovation, and platform strategy. Before joining Haleon, she held research, scientific communication, and commercial strategy roles at Morinaga Milk Industry in Japan, where she translated biotics science into application-ready propositions for global B2B customers. She is passionate about making complex science actionable, credible, and meaningful for everyday health innovation.

					
	
	Prof Dr Norfilza Binti Mohd Mokhtar

Research Management Centre (RMC), Management & Science University (MSU), Malaysia
Biography
Prof Dr Norfilza Binti Mohd Mokhtar, Research Management Centre (RMC), Management & Science University (MSU), Malaysia

Prof. Dr. Norfilza Mohd Mokhtar is currently Vice President for Research at Management and Science University (MSU), Malaysia. Her expertise lies in molecular medicine, with a strong research focus on gastrointestinal health, gut microbiota, digestive diseases, and the role of probiotics in human health.

She has held significant academic and administrative roles, including leadership positions at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), and has also contributed internationally as an Adjunct Professor in Arabian Gulf University, Bahrain. Deeply committed to education, she is actively involved in supervising postgraduate students in the medical and health sciences fields.

Her research portfolio is extensive, covering emerging areas such as microplastics and their impact on health, as well as non-communicable diseases. She has secured numerous national and international research grants and has published widely in reputable scientific journals.

					
	
	Dr Andy Jin

Royal Agricultural University, United Kingdom
Biography
Dr Andy Jin, Royal Agricultural University, United Kingdom

Dr Jin is a transdisciplinary social science researcher. He integrates theories and methods from social psychology, sociology, and economics to examine how individuals and societies respond to risk and sustainability challenges in the agri-food sector, with the aim of informing socially robust and policy-relevant agri-food solutions. He has extensive experience working on interdisciplinary agri-food projects across Asia and Europe, and to date his research has led to over 35 peer-reviewed academic publications.

Before joining RAU, Dr Jin was a Senior Lecturer at the University of Portsmouth (2021-2025) and a Research Associate at Newcastle University (2019-2021). Prior to his academic career, he also worked with international organisations and private companies. He is currently the Programme Leader for MSc Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security (RAU at Qingdao Agricultural University Joint Institute).

					
	
	Prof Dr Hooi Ling Foo

Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), Malaysia
Biography
Prof Dr Hooi Ling Foo, Department of Bioprocess Technology, 
Faculty of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), Malaysia

Prof Dr Hooi Ling is a Professor of Industrial Biotechnology at the Faculty of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM). She is the current head of the University-Driven Research Programme on Lactic Acid Bacteria Biota Technology at the Research Laboratory of Probiotics and Cancer Therapeutics, Institute of Bioscience, UPM. 

Prof. Foo has broad research interests that encompass the application of lactic acid bacteria and their bioactive derivatives. She has authored 2 technical books, 6 book chapters and over 145 articles in peer-reviewed journals (Scopus Citations: 5,306; H-index: 42). Moreover, 20 of 33 patents were filed as the project leader and 10 patents were granted in Malaysia, Australia, Singapore, China, Japan, the USA and Korea. Hence, she has 5 commercialisation experiences with the granted patents. With the experience in commercialisation, Prof. Foo has been elected as an executive council member of the Malaysia Laboratories for Academia-Business Collaboration (MyLAB) Research Programme of the Ministry of Higher Education of Malaysia since 2023. 

Prof. Foo is also active in various scientific societies. She has been the elected Vice President of the Asian Federation of Societies for Lactic Acid Bacteria (AFSLAB) since 2019. She was the organising chair of the 12th Asian Congress of Lactic Acid Bacteria (ACLAB 12, 20-22nd September 2022). She has also been the elected President of the Malaysian Society for Lactic Acid Bacteria (MSLAB) since 2021. Additionally, she has a long-standing record of contributions to the Malaysian Society for Microbiology (MSM). She served as Honorary Secretary from 2004-2006, Honorary Treasurer from 2006-2015, Vice President from 2015-2017 and Honorary Auditor from 2017-2019.

					
	
	Ts. Nurul Hidayati Mohd. Nasir

Food Safety and Quality Programme, Ministry of Health Malaysia
Biography
Ts. Nurul Hidayati Mohd. Nasir, Food Safety and Quality Programme, Ministry of Health Malaysia

Ts. Nurul Hidayati Mohd. Nasir is a Nutritionist with the Food Safety and Quality Programme, Ministry of Health Malaysia, where she has served since 2008. Her key responsibilities include reviewing applications related to food labelling, nutrition labelling, and health claims, as well as contributing to amendments to the Malaysian Food Regulations. She serves as the Secretariat to the Expert Committee on Nutrition, Health Claims and Advertising, which evaluates applications for nutrition and health claims, and also as the Secretariat to the Codex Committee on Nutrition and Foods for Special Dietary Uses (CCNFSDU), coordinating Malaysia's draft responses and national positions on issues concerning foods for special dietary uses. In addition, Ts. Nurul Hidayati is a panel member of the Organic Food Certification Scheme and serves as a member of the Rare Diseases Committee and the Committee on the Code of Ethics for the Marketing of Infant Foods, Ministry of Health Malaysia. She was a key contributor to the development of the Malaysian Vegetarian Dietary Guidelines. Her professional interests focus on food labelling, nutrition, and food regulatory affairs.

					
	
	Prof Dr Xuesong Xiang

Institute of Nutrition and Health, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, China
Biography
Prof Dr Xuesong Xiang, Institute of Nutrition and Health, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, China

Prof Dr Xuesong Xiang is a Professor at the National Institute for Nutrition and Health, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (China CDC). He serves as a Council Member of the Chinese Nutrition Society (CNS), Vice Chair and Secretary-General of the Probiotic, Prebiotic and Health Branch of the CNS, a Standing Committee Member of the Food Hygiene Branch of the Chinese Preventive Medicine Association, and a Member of the Asia-Pacific Branch of the International Carbohydrate Quality Consortium (ICQC-AP).

His research expertise encompasses dietary nutrition, gut microbiota, and the evaluation of scientific evidence on probiotics and prebiotics. He has authored more than 60 publications in national and international peer-reviewed journals and co-edited 14 books on nutrition, making significant contributions to the advancement of nutrition science and public health.

Prof. Xiang has also played a pivotal role in the development of national and industry standards, as well as expert consensus statements in China. As the lead drafter and principal author, he contributed to several landmark Chinese Nutrition Society (CNS) Expert Consensus documents, including those on probiotics, prebiotics, postbiotics, and the definition and sources of dietary fibre.

					
	
	Ms Dissaya Kittithanavimon

Thai Food and Drug Administration, Ministry of Public Health, Thailand
Biography
Ms Dissaya Kittithanavimon, Thai Food and Drug Administration, Ministry of Public Health, Thailand

Ms. Dissaya Kittithanavimon is a Food and Drug Technical Officer, Professional Level, at Food division, Thai Food and Drug Administration, Ministry of Public Health. She received her Master Degree in Food and Nutrition Toxicology from Mahidol University. She has over 14 years of experience in food regulatory affairs, responsible for establishing food safety regulations under the Food Act B.E. 2522 (1979) by synthesizing scientific evidence with socio-economic impact assessments to ensure practical and effective implementation. The role also encompasses managing and updating food safety standards and regulations, especially in area of food additives, microbial food cultures and probiotics, alongside conducting safety assessments for use of probiotic microorganisms in food and chemicals of interest. Her work includes the collaboration among academics, business operators, and the public sector for ensuring food safety with fair practices in food trade and creating a health-conducive food ecosystem for better consumer well-being.

					
	
	Prof Purwiyatno Hariyadi

IPB University, Indonesia
Biography
Prof Purwiyatno Hariyadi, IPB University, Indonesia

Prof. Dr. Purwiyatno Hariyadi is Professor of Food Processing and Engineering at IPB University (Bogor Agricultural University), Indonesia. He previously served as Vice Dean (1995-2000), Head of the Department of Food Science and Technology (2000-2004), and Director of the Southeast Asian Food and Agricultural Science and Technology (SEAFAST) Center (2005-2015).

He is actively engaged in national and international professional communities, including the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT) and the Institute for Thermal Processing Specialists (IFTPS). He has held leadership roles as President of the Indonesian Palm Oil Society (2005-2009) and President of the Indonesian Association of Food Technologists (2006-2010). He serves on the Experts Panel of Indonesia's National Food Agency and Food and Drug Authority and advises government and industry. Internationally, he has been involved in Codex Alimentarius since 2010 and served as Vice-Chair of the Codex Alimentarius Commission (2017-2021). He is also Chief Editor of FoodReview Indonesia.

His research and teaching focus on food processing and engineering (including thermal and aseptic processing), post-harvest processing (particularly palm oil), and food regulatory sciences, reflecting his extensive Codex experience. He teaches food processing, thermal processing, food safety regulatory practices, and professional ethics, and supervises graduate students in these areas.

He is a member of the Indonesian Academy of Sciences (2012) and the International Academy of Food Science and Technology (2016). He earned his Ph.D. in Food Chemistry (minor in Chemical Engineering) from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1995.

			CONTACT	
	
If you have any inquiries, please do not hesitate to contact us through:
	For Local Participants:

Dr. Tee E Siong

Email: estee@nutrihealth.com.my
For Overseas Participants:

ILSI Southeast Asia Region

18 Mohamed Sultan Road #03-01 Singapore 238967

Tel: 65 6352 5220

Email: event@ilsisea.org.sg


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				Background				
				
								
				
				Venue				
				
				
	
					
						Background
					
						
As dietary patterns continue to evolve, excessive sodium intake among Filipinos remains a growing public health concern and a key risk factor for non-communicable diseases. This one-day symposium brings together distinguished global and local experts and key stakeholders to share diverse perspectives on sodium intake and its implications for health. Through sessions on sodium health and science, consumer insights, and industry perspectives, the symposium aims to bridge science and practice while fostering multi-stakeholder collaboration to address one of today's key nutrition challenges.
					
						Venue
					
						
The symposium will be held IN-PERSON at:

Ramada by Wyndham Manila Central

Address: 612 Ongpin, cor Quintin Paredes, Binondo, Manila

Website: https://www.ramadamanilacentral.com/
 
	
Registration Fee:  ₱ 1,500.00

			PROGRAM	
	08:00 - 09:00 AM (GMT+8) Registration

09:00 - 09:20 AM Welcome Remarks


					Session 1: Understanding Sodium in the Diet
											Expand
					09:20 - 10:05 AM

Why Should the Level of Sodium Intake be a Health Concern

Dr. Cecilia A. Jimeno, College of Medicine and Philippine General Hospital, University of the Philippines Manila
10:05 - 10:50 AM

Methodological Issues in Sodium Intake Assessment (Virtual)

Prof Rachel McLean, Department of Public Health, University of Otago, New Zealand 
10:50 - 11:35 AM

Local and Regional Dietary Guidelines in Sodium: Latest Evidence and Emerging Recommendations (Virtual)

Prof Andrew Mente, Population Health Research Institute and Hamilton Health Sciences, McMaster University, Canada
 

11:35 - 12:00 NN Q&A
12:00 - 1:00 PM Lunch
 
					Session 2: Stakeholder Engagement and Consumer Perspectives
											Expand
					1:00 - 1:45 PM

Sensory and Behavioral Drivers of Sodium Intake

Mr Nico V. Reyes, Rebel Marketing Philippines
1:45 - 2:30 PM

Communication Pathways in Encouraging Adoption of Lower- Sodium Foods

Ms Germaine A. Reyes, Synergy Market Research and Strategic Consultancy, Philippines
2:30 - 2:50 PM Q&A
 
					Session 3: Industry Perspectives
											Expand
					2:50 - 3:35 PM

Guidance for Industry on Voluntary Sodium Reduction

Dr. Diane S. Mendoza-Sarmiento, University of Santo Tomas, Manila
3:35 - 4:20 PM

Navigating Challenges and Opportunities in Sodium Reformulation

Mr. Koichiro Watabe, R&D and Quality Assurance, Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation 
4:20 - 5:05 PM

Multisectoral Interventions Towards Advancing Sodium Reduction

Dr Mario V. Capanzana, Philippine Chamber of Food Manufacturers, Inc. (PCFMI)
5:05 - 5:25 PM Q&A 
	
5:25 - 5:30 PM Closing Remarks / End of Symposium
			
							View Full Program
					

			FEATURED SPEAKERS	

				
	
	
Dr. Cecilia A. Jimeno
	
College of Medicine and Philippine General Hospital, University of the Philippines Manila
			
							Biography
					
			
Dr. Cecilia A. Jimeno is a renowned Filipino endocrinologist, professor, and researcher, recognized for her expertise in diabetes, metabolism, and thyroid disorders. She currently serves as Associate Dean for Academic Development (ADAD), and as Professor and former Chair of the Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology at the College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila. She is also an admitting physician at the University of the Philippines - Philippine General Hospital in Manila and currently chairs the UP-Manila Research Ethics Board.

A recognized leader in endocrinology, Dr. Jimeno held numerous leadership roles in professional organizations, including serving as Past President of the Philippine College of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism (PCEDM). She has been actively engaged in national and regional scientific discussions and is regarded as a key contributor to advancing endocrine care in the Philippines. Her expertise spans internal medicine, with specialization in clinical endocrinology, diabetes, and metabolism.

Dr. Jimeno is also a pioneer in the development of clinical practice guidelines in the Philippines, having contributed to and led initiatives on diabetes and thyroid disease management that have helped shape national healthcare standards. Widely recognized for her contributions as an educator and researcher, she has received numerous accolades, including the PCEDM Diamond Award for Leadership, the UPMAS Outstanding Educator Award, and multiple UP Professorial Chair Awards for excellence in teaching, research, and public service.

Her longstanding commitment to advancing medical science, improving patient care, and mentoring future health professionals underscores her significant impact on endocrinology and medical education in the Philippines.

				
	
	
Prof Rachel McLean
	
Department of Public Health, University of Otago, New Zealand
			
							Biography
					
			

Professor Rachael McLean is Professor of Public Health at the University of Otago, Dunedin New Zealand.  She trained in medicine, has worked in both Primary Care and Public Health Settings, and is a Fellow of the New Zealand College of Public Health Medicine.  She is an internationally recognized expert in nutritional public health and epidemiology, including research methods and analysis.  She has broad expertise in investigating risk factors and interventions for prevention and better management of hypertension and cardiovascular disease. For the past 17 years she has had a particular research focus in dietary sodium assessment and reduction strategies. In this capacity she has advised the World Health Organization, the Australian Bureau of Statistics, and the New Zealand Ministry of Health.  She has led international collaborations producing systematic reviews comparing different methods of assessment of dietary sodium intake, and these have been referenced in the 2019 USA/Canada Dietary Reference Intakes.  She has an established track record of obtaining competitive research grants, and publishing, including with international research collaborations. She has over 100 peer reviewed publications and has written commissioned reports for various government agencies including the New Zealand Ministry of Health, Ministry for Primary Industries, and New Zealand Food Safety Authority. 		

				
	
	
Prof Andrew Mente
	
Population Health Research Institute and Hamilton Health Sciences, McMaster University, Canada
			
							Biography
					
			

Dr. Andrew Mente received his doctoral degree in Epidemiology from the University of Toronto. He completed postdoctoral training in cardiovascular epidemiology at McMaster University in Hamilton, Canada, and is currently a Professor in the Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact (HEI) and the Population Health Research Institute (PHRI) at McMaster University.

Dr. Mente's research focuses on the role of dietary sodium in relation to cardiovascular disease (CVD). His work has contributed to large international studies examining sodium intake in populations globally and its association with cardiovascular outcomes. His research has been published in several landmark journals, including the New England Journal of Medicine, The Lancet, JAMA, and the British Medical Journal.

Dr. Mente has also studied dietary nutrients, foods, and dietary patterns in relation to cardiovascular disease and mortality, and has co-led analyses on the role of fats and carbohydrates in cardiovascular disease as part of the Prospective Urban Rural Epidemiology (PURE) cohort. Recently, he developed a globally applicable healthy diet score using data from the PURE study, which was replicated in 5 independent studies involving participants across 80 countries.		

				
	
	
Mr Nico V. Reyes
	
Rebel Marketing Philippines
			
							Biography
					
			

Mr Nico Reyes is a strategic communications and public affairs adviser with over two decades of experience helping organizations translate complex public issues and technical information into clear messages that improve public understanding, support informed decisions and choices, and ultimately contribute to positive behavior change.

He is the Co-Founder and President of Rebel Marketing, a strategic advisory consultancy that works with multinational companies, government institutions, and industry organizations on communications strategy, stakeholder engagement, and public policy positioning.

Over the course of his career, he has advised organizations such as GCash, GSK, Sanofi, Nestlé Philippines, Unilever, and USAID, among others, on how to communicate complex issues in ways that are accessible, credible, and relevant to everyday decision-making.

He also contributes to advancing science communication in the Philippines as a member of DOST-PCIEERD's Technical Panel on Science Communication since 2019 and has recently delivered lectures and workshops for institutions such as DOST-FNRI and the Philippine Navy on communicating scientific and technical information in ways that resonate with everyday audiences.

				
	
	
Ms Germaine A. Reyes
	
Synergy Market Research and Strategic Consultancy, Philippines
			
							Biography
					
			
Ms Germaine Reyes is the President and CEO of Synergy Market Research + Strategic Consultancy, a management consulting, research, and data analytics firm. Synergy is the exclusive Philippine partner of YouGov, a globally recognized research and data analytics company.

Ms Reyes is a distinguished leader and pioneer in market research known for driving strategic forward-thinking insights that empower business and marketing professionals, including academe globally.

In 2025, she was personally honored as an Insight250 Award winner - a prestigious global recognition celebrating innovators advancing enterprise intelligence. Notably, she was the only Filipino recipient of this highly acclaimed award. Under her leadership, her firm, Synergy, has been continuously earning international distinctions for its groundbreaking thought leadership.

Prior to setting up Synergy, Ms Reyes held key directorship positions at major global organizations, including The Coca-Cola Company's Philippines Division, AC Nielsen, and prominent advertising firms such as PAC/BBDO (a subsidiary of BBDO New York) and Avellana & Associates.

She holds both a BS and Master of Statistics degrees from the University of the Philippines, Diliman.

				
	
	
Dr Diane Mendoza-Sarmiento
	
University of Santo Tomas, Philippines
			
							Biography
					
			
Dr Diane S. Mendoza-Sarmiento is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics at the College of Education, University of Santo Tomas, where she also serves as Nutrition Clinic Coordinator and researcher at the Research Center for Natural and Applied Sciences. She earned her PhD in Health Research from the University of Santo Tomas as a DOST-SEI scholar and DA-PhilRice fellowship awardee, with doctoral research examining the role of pigmented rice in reducing cardiometabolic risks.

She is active in professional organizations, previously served as a Board Member of the Philippine Association of Nutrition in 2020-2021 and 2024-2025, and currently Secretary of the Philippine Stakeholders of Nutritionist-Dietitians. She is also an associate member of the National Research Council of the Philippines.		

				
	
	
Mr. Koichiro Watabe
	
R&D and Quality Assurance, Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation
			
							Biography
					
			
Mr Koichiro Watabe is currently the Associate Director of R&D and Quality Assurance at Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation. Since joining Ajinomoto Co., Inc., he has played a key role in the development and industrialization of seasonings and processed foods, contributing to projects across Japan, Thailand, the Philippines, and other Asian markets."		

				
	
	
Dr Mario V Campanzana
	
Philippine Chamber of Food Manufacturers, Inc. (PCFMI)
			
							Biography
					
			
Dr. Mario V. Capanzana is the Executive Director of the Philippine Center for Food and Migration Innovations (PCFMI) and a Technical Consultant of Monde Nissin Corporation. From 2005 to 2020, he was the Director of the Food and Nutrition Research Institute of the Department of Science and Technology (FNRI-DOST), where he led numerous initiatives in food technology and nutrition research.
Dr. Capanzana holds a PhD in Food Science and Technology from the University of New South Wales in Australia, an MSc in Food Technology from Mysore University/CFRI in India, a Postgraduate Diploma in Applied Food Science from Hawkesbury Agricultural College, and a BSc in Chemical Engineering from National University in Manila.
His outstanding contributions have been recognized with several awards, including the Civil Service Commission's Lingkod Bayan Award in 2016 and the Francisco O. Santos Memorial Award from the Philippine Association of Nutrition in 2022. He is also an active member and leader in several professional bodies, including PICHE, PAFT, PAN, and NDAP.

			ORGANIZER	

				
	

			COLLABORATOR	

				
	

			CONTACT	
	
If you have any inquiries, please do not hesitate to contact us through:
	Ellaine Javier

ILSI SEA Region Philippine Country Community

Email: ellainejavier@ilsisea.org.sg


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			REGISTRATION	

			PROGRAM	
	08:00 - 08:45 hr Registration

08:45 - 09:00 hr Welcome Remarks

                           Mrs Boon Yee Yeong, ILSI Southeast Asia Region, Singapore
					Session 1: Understanding Sodium in the Diet
											Expand
					

Chair: Mr Geoffry Smith, ILSI Southeast Asia Region, Singapore
09:00 - 09:30

Sodium: State of the Science - Health, Guidelines, and Data Challenges

Prof Andrew Mente, McMaster University, Canada
09:30 - 10:00

Understanding Sodium Intake: History, Culture, and Dietary Sources

Prof Christiani Jeyakumar Henry, Global Centre for Asian Women's Health (GloW), NUS Medicine, Singapore


10:00 - 10:15 Q&A
10:15 - 10:35 Morning Refreshment Break / Networking
 
					Session 2: Community and Public Health Approaches to Sodium Reduction
											Expand
					

Co-chairs:

Dr Lynne Cobiac, ILSI Southeast Asia Region, Australia

Dr Cecilia Cristina Santos-Acuin, University of the Philippines, Los Baños, Philippines
10:35 - 11:00 hr

Salt Substitution for Cardiovascular Health Promotion at Population Level

Prof Yangfeng Wu, Peking University Clinical Research Institute, China
11:00 - 11:20 hr

Salt Preference: Sensory and Behavioral Drivers of Salt Use and Sodium Reduction

Dr Yee How Say, Sunway University, Malaysia


11:20 - 11:40 hr

Glutamate-rich Seasonings and Educational Strategies for Better Sodium Reduction

Dr Vu Thi Thu Hien, National Institute of Nutrition (NIN), Vietnam
11:40 - 12:00 hr Q&A
12:00 - 12:45 hr

National Sodium Reduction Initiatives: Country Examples


Singapore

Dr Eunice Pang, Health Promotion Board (HPB), Singapore
Malaysia

Dr Sivarajan Ramasamy, Ministry of Health, Malaysia
Thailand

Dr Krisada Hanbanjerd, Ministry of Public Health, Thailand
12:45 - 13:00 hr Q&A
13:00 - 14:15 hr Lunch Break / Networking
 
					Session 3: Industry and Innovative Solutions
											Expand
					
Chair: Prof Purwiyatno Hariyadi, IPB University, Indonesia
14:15 - 14:35 hr

Guidance and Innovations for Industry on Voluntary Sodium Reduction Goals 

Dr Diane Mendoza-Sarmiento, University of Santo Tomas, Philippines
14:35 - 15:20 hr

Navigating Reformulation of Lower-Sodium Products: Industry Challenges, Opportunities, and Pathways 
 1) How Low Can We Go: Industry Insights from Australia's Healthy Food Partnership

Ms Anne-Marie Mackintosh, Australian Food & Grocery Council (AFGC), Australia

2) Lower Sodium Without Compromise: Unlocking Healthier Foodservice Solutions in Southeast Asia

Mr Haibin Guo, Unilever Food Solutions, Thailand

3) Sodium Reduction for Better Health Without Compromising Taste

Mr Ken Yap Chee Kiean, Ajinomoto, Malaysia
15:20 - 15:40 Q&A
15:40 - 16:00 Afternoon Refreshment Break / Networking
 
					Panel Discussion - Sodium Reduction in Southeast Asia: Aligning Policy, Food Environments, and Public Behavior
											Expand
					16:00 - 16:45 hr

Panel Discussion - Sodium Reduction in Southeast Asia: Aligning Policy, Food Environments, and Public Behavior
Moderator:

Dr E Siong Tee, TES NutriHealth Strategic Consultancy, Malaysia
Panelists:

Prof Datin Dr Yook-Chin Chia, Sunway University, Malaysia

Dr Terence Ng, Health Promotion Board (HPB), Singapore

Mr Kevin Carpio, Monde Nissin Corporation, Philippines

Ms Pek Yee Chow, Khoo Teck Puat Hospital, Singapore


	16:45 - 17:00 hr Closing Remarks

End of Symposium
			
							Full Program
					

			SESSION CHAIRS	

				
	
	
Mr Geoffry Smith
	
ILSI Southeast Asia Region, Singapore
			
							Biography
					
			
Mr. Geoff Smith serves as President of ILSI SEA Region based in Singapore, and co-representative to the global ILSI Assembly. ILSI SEA Region was established as a regional branch of the world-wide scientific-foundation ILSI in 1993, covering ASEAN and Australasia. 

Mr. Smith is also the Chairman of the Essential Micronutrients Foundation, a non-profit organization which addresses micronutrient deficiencies globally as a public health issue. He is a past Member of the Executive Committee of the global ILSI Board. Prior to his current positions, Mr. Smith was the Global Director, Health Chelates for AkzoNobel Functional Chemicals. He was responsible for the global project within AkzoNobel addressing iron deficiency anemia, which resulted in completely revised guidelines by the World Health Organization for flour fortification with iron. A thirty-year veteran of the chemical industry in Asia-Pacific and globally, Mr. Smith has resided in Singapore for more than 30 years

				
	
	
Dr Lynne Cobiac
	
ILSI Southeast Asia Region, Australia
			
							Biography
					
			
Dr Lynne Cobiac is a retired scientist (PhD, MBA) having served senior positions at the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), Australia's National Science Agency. She has over 30 years of experience and leadership in research and management in the nutrition and preventative health domains within both research organizations and university environments. Dr. Cobiac held several executive roles as Deputy Director, Science Director and Director in a number of different business units. Before her retirement in 2023, Dr Cobiac was Director (Acting) of CSIRO's Health and Biosecurity business unit overseeing 400 researchers.

Besides her career and contributions to CSIRO, Dr. Cobiac held a Professorial position at Flinders University, Australia as Foundation Chair (Professor) for Nutrition and Dietetics, and was Associate Dean at Flinders Clinical and Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine between 2007 - 2011.

Dr Cobiac has been actively involved as a Science Advisor and Scientific Director of ILSI Southeast Asia Region (2019 - present), where she is also Chair of the ILSI SEA Region Working Group for Protein Needs and Sustainable Solutions (2024 - present). She was previously Chair of the ILSI SEA Region Working Group on Scientific Integrity (2020-2023). In Australia, she has just been appointed to The Hospital Research Foundation Group - Parkinsons South Australia Board of Governors group (2025-present).

				
	
	
Dr Cecilia Cristina Santos-Acuin
	
University of the Philippines, Los Baños, Philippines
			
							Biography
					
			
Dr. Cecilia Acuin is an Associate Professor (adjunct, retired) at the Institute of Human Nutrition and Food, University of the Philippines, Los Baños and a consultant at the Asian Hospital and Medical Center, Department of Family & Community Medicine. She serves as nutrition consultant for the World Bank Philippines office and in this capacity provides technical assistance to the Philippine Multisectoral Nutrition Project (PMNP) and the 'Repurposing for Healthier Diets' Program. She was the Senior Scientist, lead for Human Nutrition, at the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), Philippines until May 2020. Prior to her work at IRRI, she was the Chief Science Research Specialist, Nutritional Assessment & Monitoring Division and Chair, Institutional Ethics Committee at the Food & Nutrition Research Institute (FNRI), Department of Science & Technology, Philippines. Dr. Acuin's involvement in multi-country research initiatives includes the following among others: member of the International Union of Nutritional Sciences Committee on Nutrition and Anthropology; Consultant and Vice-Chair of the WPRO Regional Advisory Committee on Health Research in the WHO Western Pacific Region. In the Philippines, Dr. Acuin has been the Co-Chair of the Philippine National Health Research System, Research Utilization Committee; Head of the Secretariat of the Universal Health Care (UHC) Study Group; consultant in various capacities of USAID, UNICEF, Helen Keller International, the International Institute for Rural Reconstruction (IIRR), etc., as well as for academic institutions and local organizations such as the Zuellig Family Foundation. She obtained her Ph.D. in Nutrition with minors in Nutritional Epidemiology and Risk Communication from Cornell University, USA, her masters in Medical Anthropology from the University of Connecticut (UCONN) Storrs, and her MD and BS Zoology (cum laude) from the University of the Philippines. Her research interests are in the areas of maternal and child health and nutrition, food security, food and health systems and operations research, and risk factors of non-communicable diseases.

				
	
	
Prof Purwiyatno Hariyadi
	
IPB University, Indonesia
			
							Biography
					
			
Prof. Dr. Purwiyatno Hariyadi is Professor of Food Processing and Engineering at IPB University (Bogor Agricultural University), Indonesia. He previously served as Vice Dean (1995-2000), Head of the Department of Food Science and Technology (2000-2004), and Director of the Southeast Asian Food and Agricultural Science and Technology (SEAFAST) Center (2005-2015).

He is actively engaged in national and international professional communities, including the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT) and the Institute for Thermal Processing Specialists (IFTPS). He has held leadership roles as President of the Indonesian Palm Oil Society (2005-2009) and President of the Indonesian Association of Food Technologists (2006-2010). He serves on the Experts Panel of Indonesia's National Food Agency and Food and Drug Authority and advises government and industry. Internationally, he has been involved in Codex Alimentarius since 2010 and served as Vice-Chair of the Codex Alimentarius Commission (2017-2021). He is also Chief Editor of FoodReview Indonesia.

His research and teaching focus on food processing and engineering (including thermal and aseptic processing), post-harvest processing (particularly palm oil), and food regulatory sciences, reflecting his extensive Codex experience. He teaches food processing, thermal processing, food safety regulatory practices, and professional ethics, and supervises graduate students in these areas.

He is a member of the Indonesian Academy of Sciences (2012) and the International Academy of Food Science and Technology (2016). He earned his Ph.D. in Food Chemistry (minor in Chemical Engineering) from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1995.

			SYMPOSIUM SPEAKERS	

				
	
	
Prof Andrew Mente
	
McMaster University, Canada
			
							Biography
					
			
Dr. Andrew Mente received his doctoral degree in Epidemiology from the University of Toronto. He completed postdoctoral training in cardiovascular epidemiology at McMaster University in Hamilton, Canada, and is currently a Professor in the Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact (HEI) and the Population Health Research Institute (PHRI) at McMaster University.

Dr. Mente's research focuses on the role of dietary sodium in relation to cardiovascular disease (CVD). His work has contributed to large international studies examining sodium intake in populations globally and its association with cardiovascular outcomes. His research has been published in several landmark journals, including the New England Journal of Medicine, The Lancet, JAMA, and the British Medical Journal.

Dr. Mente has also studied dietary nutrients, foods, and dietary patterns in relation to cardiovascular disease and mortality, and has co-led analyses on the role of fats and carbohydrates in cardiovascular disease as part of the Prospective Urban Rural Epidemiology (PURE) cohort. Recently, he developed a globally applicable healthy diet score using data from the PURE study, which was replicated in 5 independent studies involving participants across 80 countries.

				
	
	
Prof Christiani Jeyakumar Henry
	
Global Centre for Asian Women's Health (GloW), NUS Medicine, Singapore
			
							Biography
					
			
Prof. Jeyakumar Henry is currently Senior Advisor, at GloW, National University of Singapore. He trained as a Nutritionist at   the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine and was the founding Director of the Clinical Nutrition Research Centre, A*STAR, Singapore (2011-2023), and first Director of Functional Food Centre in Oxford, UK. He was a Board member of UK Food Standards Agency, and served as a consultant to UNICEF, FAO, WHO, on International Nutrition. His work on energy metabolism led to the development of the Henry Equation to predict basal metabolic rate that is used worldwide. He has been active in developing novel foods and ingredients to improve human health worldwide. He was made a Fellow of the International Academy of Food Scientists and Technologists (2012), Fellow of the British Nutrition Society (2022), and Fellow of the American Society for Nutrition (2024) - the highest award in Human Nutritional science.		

				
	
	
Prof Yangfeng Wu
	
Peking University Clinical Research Institute, China
			
							Biography
					
			
Prof Yangfeng Wu is a Professor of Epidemiology and Sciences in Clinical Research at the School of Public Health and the Clinical Research Institute of the Institute of Advanced Clinical Medicine, Peking University. He has successively presided over dozens of scientific research projects and has published over 440 papers in domestic and international medical journals, and has edited and co-edited 21 monographs in Chinese and English. He led the development of China's first cardiovascular disease risk prediction model and chaired the formulation of the "Practical Guidelines for Primary Hypertension Prevention and Treatment" and the "Chinese Guidelines on Low-Sodium Salt Use and Promotion ". He has received numerous honors, including the Ministry of Health Science and Technology Progress Award, Wu Jie Ping Medical Research Award - Paul Janssen Pharmaceutical Award, Paul Dudley White International Lecture at AHA Scientific Sessions 2012, and many others. He has served as the Director of the World Health Organization's Cardiovascular Disease Training and Cooperation Center (Beijing), the Director of The George Institute for Global Health, China and an Honorary Professor at the University of Sydney's Faculty of Medicine. His main research focuses on the effective strategies for prevention and control of major chronic diseases.		

				
	
	
Dr Yee How Say
	
Sunway University, Malaysia
			
							Biography
					
			
Dr. Say Yee How is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Biomedical Sciences at the Sir Jeffrey Cheah Sunway Medical School, Faculty of Medical and Life Sciences, Sunway University, Malaysia. His research focuses on nutrition and genetics in non-communicable diseases, particularly nutrigenetics, dietary behaviour, and metabolic health. His work investigates how genetic variation influences taste perception-including bitter, sweet, salty, umami, and fatty tastes-and how these differences shape dietary preferences, nutrient intake, and risk of obesity and related metabolic conditions. He is actively involved in population nutrition research, particularly studies on dietary sodium reduction and healthier food environments. His recent work includes research and intervention studies aimed at reducing salt and sugar intake in institutional and out-of-home food settings, including campus-based initiatives to improve dietary practices and cardiometabolic health. Dr. Say is also involved in the Malaysian Society for World Action on Salt, Sugar and Health (MyWASSH), a multidisciplinary initiative that promotes salt and sugar reduction strategies, public education, and policy engagement to address non-communicable diseases in Malaysia. He has authored numerous peer-reviewed publications in international journals, including research on salt reduction interventions and population dietary behaviours, contributing to evidence-based strategies to improve nutrition and reduce chronic disease risk. 		

				
	
	
Dr Vu Thi Thu Hien
	
National Institute of Nutrition (NIN), Vietnam
			
							Biography
					
			
Dr. Vu Thi Thu Hien is the Head of the Biochemistry and Nutrition Metabolism Department at the National Institute of Nutrition (NIN). She earned her medical degree from Hanoi Medical University in 1996, followed by a Master's degree in Nutrition from Tokushima University, Japan in 2004, and a PhD in Nutrition from Ochanomizu University, Japan in 2008. Since 2006, she has led the Biochemistry and Nutrition Metabolism Department at NIN. She has been a lecturer at Hanoi Medical University since 2011, was appointed Associate Professor in 2014, and has also been a lecturer at Nam Dinh University of Nursing since 2018. In addition, she has been an active member of the Steering Committee of the Vietnam Dietetic Association since 2019.		

				
	
	
Dr Eunice Pang
	
Health Promotion Board (HPB), Singapore
			
							Biography
					
			
Dr Eunice Pang leads in the development and implementation of regulatory policies as well as upstream food-related strategies to tackle public health issues. Her notable contributions include the implementation of the Nutri-Grade nutrition labelling system, an initiative that empowers consumers to make informed dietary choices. She is also instrumental in overseeing the sodium and saturated fat reduction strategy in response to Singapore's high prevalence of hypertension and elevated blood cholesterol. Her expertise encompasses familiarity with the food ecosystem and the translation of food and nutrition guidelines into practical implementation

Prior to her tenure at HPB, Eunice established her scientific foundation as a trained food scientist and served as a Post-Doctoral Associate in nutritional immunology at the USDA-Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging (USDA-HNRCA) in Boston, USA. This research background provides her with the scientific rigour and evidence-based approach that underpins her current policy leadership.

				
	
	
Dr Sivarajan Ramasamy
	
Ministry of Health, Malaysia
			
							Biography
					
			
Dr. Sivarajan Ramasamy is a Public Health Medicine Specialist with the Ministry of Health Malaysia, currently leading the Cardio-Renal-Metabolic (CRM) Prevention and Control agenda under the Disease Control Division. With over 15 years of experience in population health, he plays a key role in shaping national strategies on non-communicable diseases (NCDs), with a strong focus on diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular health, and integrated risk factor management.

He is actively involved in the development of Malaysia's upcoming National Strategic Plan for NCD (2026-2030), driving a paradigm shift towards a more integrated, outcome-driven CRM approach. His work emphasises lifestyle intervention as first-line therapy, supported by system transformation, behavioural insights, and multi-sectoral collaboration to strengthen prevention and early intervention across the life course.

Dr. Sivarajan currently leads national efforts on sodium reduction policy within the Ministry of Health Malaysia, advancing the implementation of the Salt Reduction Strategy to Prevent and Control NCD for Malaysia (2021-2025). His work focuses on translating evidence into policy and practice, including strengthening reformulation initiatives, public awareness, and interventions targeting high-risk dietary behaviours particularly in out of home food environments. Through cross-sectoral engagement, he continues to drive innovative, scalable solutions to reduce population salt intake and improve cardiovascular health outcomes in Malaysia

				
	
	
Dr Krisada Hanbunjerd
	
Ministry of Public Health, Thailand
			
							Biography
					
			
Dr. Krisada Hanbunjerd is currently the Director of the Division of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) at the Ministry of Public Health, Thailand. He previously served in various key roles at Bamrasnaradura Infectious Diseases Institute, including Chief of Ophthalmology Department, Associate Director for IT and Medical Services, and Deputy Director. He also served as Director of Rajprachasamasai Institute from 2020 to 2021. Dr. Hanbunjerd earned his Doctor of Medicine and a Certificate in Ophthalmology from Chulalongkorn University, and a Master's degree in IT Management from King Mongkut's Institute of Technology Ladkrabang.

				
	
	
Dr Diane Mendoza-Sarmiento
	
University of Santo Tomas, Philippines
			
							Biography
					
			
Dr Diane S. Mendoza-Sarmiento is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics at the College of Education, University of Santo Tomas, where she also serves as Nutrition Clinic Coordinator and researcher at the Research Center for Natural and Applied Sciences. She earned her PhD in Health Research from the University of Santo Tomas as a DOST-SEI scholar and DA-PhilRice fellowship awardee, with doctoral research examining the role of pigmented rice in reducing cardiometabolic risks.

She is active in professional organizations, previously served as a Board Member of the Philippine Association of Nutrition in 2020-2021 and 2024-2025, and currently Secretary of the Philippine Stakeholders of Nutritionist-Dietitians. She is also an associate member of the National Research Council of the Philippines.		

				
	
	
Ms Anne-Marie Mackintosh
	
Australian Food & Grocery Council (AFGC), Australia
			
							Biography
					
			
Ms Anne-Marie Mackintosh is a dietitian with over 25 years' experience spanning industry, government, and healthcare. As Associate Director - Health , Trade and Regulatory Affairs  at the Australian Food & Grocery Council, she helps shape nutrition policy and advocates for healthier choices. She also contributes nationally through key committees and initiatives  such as the Australian Government Healthy Food Partnership. Passionate about collaboration, she's always looking for practical ways to make a positive impact on food and health.

				
	
	
Mr Haibin Guo
	
Unilever Food Solutions, Thailand
			
							Biography
					
			
Haibin Guo is R&D Director, SEA&METAP, Unilever Food Solutions, with over 10 years of experience in research and innovation across the food and consumer goods industries. His work spans multiple sectors, including ice cream, skincare, and food service. Haibin holds master degrees from Shanghai Jiao Tong University and California Polytechnic State University in food science and dairy science. He focuses on translating consumer insights and culinary trends into scalable innovations for professional kitchens worldwide.

				
	
	
Mr Ken Yap Chee Kiean
	
Ajinomoto (Malaysia) Berhad
			
							Biography
					
			
Mr Ken Yap is Head of Industrial Business Department at Ajinomoto (Malaysia) Berhad, with over 16 years of experience in the food industry. He leads sales, marketing, business development and technical solution strategy, helping food manufacturers develop innovative products across categories including snacks, seasonings, processed meat, beverages and food service. With regional experience spanning Asia and Latin America, Ken brings broad market insights into food innovation and healthier product development. He specialises in savoury taste optimisation, Halal food solutions and formulation strategies that support reduced-sodium product development without compromising taste.		

				
	
	
Dr E Siong Tee
	
TES NutriHealth Strategic Consultancy, Malaysia
			
							Biography
					
			
Dr E Siong Tee has been a Member of the Board of Directors of ILSI SEA Region since 1996 and Scientific Coordinator of ILSI Malaysia Country Committee since 2005. He is currently a Nutrition Consultant for TES NutriHealth Strategic Consultancy. Dr. Tee was Head of the Cardiovascular, Diabetes and Nutrition Research Centre of the Institute for Medical Research (IMR) in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, until his retirement in February 2002, after serving for 30 years. He was President of the Nutrition Society of Malaysia (NSM) till March 2024. In this capacity, he has led the implementation of various community nutrition promotion programs including the Nutrition Month Malaysia programme since 2002. He is also Vice-President of the Federation of Asian Nutrition Societies (FANS). Dr Tee is a member of several Technical Working Groups of the Ministry of Health Malaysia, including the committees related to Malaysian Food Regulations and Codex Alimentarius. He initiated the formation of the Southeast Asia Public Health Nutrition (SEA-PHN) Network in 2014 and is the current Chairman of the Network. Dr Tee is also Adjunct Professor of the IMU University, Malaysia.		

				
	
	
Prof Datin Dr Yook-Chin Chia
	
Sunway University, Malaysia
			
							Biography
					
			
Prof Yook-Chin Chia is Head of the Ageing, Health and Wellbeing Research Centre (CARE) at Sunway University and is an Emeritus Professor of University of Malaya. She is a council member and the past-president of the Malaysian Society of Hypertension and is a member of the Malaysian Clinical Practice Guidelines on Management of Hypertension for many editions

Dr Chia is also a hypertension specialist of the European Society of Hypertension and is a member of the Asia Pacific Regional Advisory Group of the International Society of Hypertension. She is the founding president of MyWASSH, (Malaysian Society for World Action on Salt and Sugar for Health) a new non-governmental society to promote reduction of salt and sugar consumption in Malaysia. Her current research is focused on salt reduction and she has been recognized by the World Hypertension League with the 2022 Graham MacGregor Excellence Award in Dietary Salt Reduction at the Population Level    

Much of her clinical work and research is on hypertension and its related cardiovascular diseases. Her current research activities are with the HOPE-Asia Network, a group of hypertension specialists from Asia. For her research activities, she was awarded the Senior Female Researcher from the International Society of Hypertension  in 2022

She is also a member of editorial board of several journals and mentors young investigators on hypertension and its related cardiovascular diseases research. She has published widely and is recognised as a Top 2% Most cited Scientists in the World since 2020

				
	
	
Dr Terence Ng
	
Health Promotion Board (HPB), Singapore
			
							Biography
					
			
Dr Terence Ng is Director in the Innovation Office and the Policy and Strategy Division in the Health Promotion Board Singapore. He is responsible for the formulation, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of priority public health policy.
In addition, he also leads the design and implementation of National Healthy Population projects, which leverage pioneering capabilities of technology companies to co-innovate solutions in precision public health.
Terence is a trained sociologist and lawyer who was previously an Assistant Professor at the University of California, San Francisco doing research on home and community-based care for the elderly and disabled.

				
	
	
Mr Kevin Carpio
	
Monde Nissin Corporation, Philippines
			
							Biography
					
			
Kevin Carpio is a nutritionist-dietitian with nearly a decade of experience in corporate nutrition, advocacy, communications, and stakeholder engagement in the food and beverage industry. He is currently the Nutrition Advocacy Manager at Monde Nissin Corporation, a major Philippine-based global food manufacturer, where he leads the company's nutrition agenda by embedding nutrition into product innovation, guiding strategies across brand portfolios, and fostering consumer trust through products that make good nutrition more accessible and affordable. Before joining Monde Nissin, he built multinational experience in corporate nutrition and spearheaded large-scale nutrition education initiatives, earning recognition through various industry and communications awards. He holds a Master of Science in Clinical Nutrition and a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics. He also serves as Vice President for External Affairs of the Philippine Association of Nutrition, Inc. (PAN), the Philippines' oldest multisectoral nutrition organization.

Prior to his corporate career, he taught nutrition and dietetics in the academe and gained experience in both fitness and clinical nutrition practice. With global exposure and a strong track record in building impactful nutrition initiatives, he is passionate about making science-based nutrition practical, accessible, and relevant to everyday life.

				
	
	
Ms Pek Yee Chow
	
Khoo Teck Puat Hospital, Singapore
			
							Biography
					
			
Ms. Chow Pek Yee is a highly qualified nutrition and dietetics professional with over two decades of experience. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition & Dietetics from the University of Kentucky and a Master in Nutrition & Dietetics from the University of Sydney. Currently serving as Principal Dietitian of the Nutrition & Dietetics Department at Khoo Teck Puat Hospital in Singapore, her expertise centres on kidney failure patients and chronic disease management, including weight management, renal nutrition, malnutrition, and frailty.

Beyond her clinical work, Ms. Chow is an active speaker on nutrition-related topics. She has played a pivotal role in the Singapore Nutrition and Dietetics Association since 2000, serving in various committee and office bearer roles including treasurer, secretary, and vice president before becoming president from 2008 to 2018. She also held regional leadership as President of the Federation of Asian Nutrition Societies (2011-2014) and currently holds a lifetime appointment as Honorary Council Member since 2019.		

			ORGANIZER	

				
	

			COLLABORATOR	

				
	

			CONTACT	
	
If you have any inquiries, please do not hesitate to contact us through:
	ILSI Southeast Asia Region

18 Mohamed Sultan Road #03-01 Singapore 238967

Tel: 65 6352 5220

Email: event@ilsisea.org.sg


                    [post_title] => Science Symposium on ReThink Sodium: Science, Behavior, Guidance and Solutions for Public Health
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			BACKGROUND	
	
Obesity, osteoporosis and sarcopenia present enormous global health and economic challenges, which are exacerbated in aging populations. Singapore is one of the countries with the highest prevalence of osteoporotic hip fractures in the world. A recent study in Singapore has studied complex relationships between fat mass (FM), lean mass (LM), and bone mass, with significant implications for obesity, frailty, and bone fractures later in life.
Vitamin D is essential for bone health, but also for many roles beyond the musculoskeletal system, including the immune, pulmonary, and cardiovascular systems; pregnancy; autoimmune disorders; and cancer. However, inappropriate or flawed study designs have been frequently found in clinical trials, which led to misleading interpretations.
Evidence from adequately powered epidemiological studies and RCTs in vitamin D-deficient populations shows favorable clinical outcomes, enriching the literature and improves understanding of its physiology and mechanisms. Proper study designs with rigorous methodologies and cautious interpretation of outcomes are crucial, and these principles are equally relevant to other micronutrients and nutrient/nutraceutical research, enhancing the credibility of clinical trials, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses.
ILSI Southeast Asia Region, Institute for Human Development and Potential (IHDP), A*STAR, Singapore, and Human Potential Translational Research Programme (HPTRP), Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore are organizing a symposium to share key insights on improving nutrient clinical trial design for disease prevention, focusing on vitamin D and related health outcomes.

			SPEAKERS	

			REGISTRATION	
	
This symposium offers complimentary registration. Due to limited seating, early registration is highly encouraged. Register now by clicking the button below:
			
							Register Here
					

			ORGANIZERS	

				
	

				
	

				
	

			CONTACT	
	
If you have any inquiries, please do not hesitate to contact the following:


                    [post_title] => Symposium on Enhancing the Design of Nutrient Clinical Trials for Disease Prevention: A Focus on Vitamin D and Health Outcomes
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The role of vitamin D in reducing cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk remains debated despite growing evidence, with observational studies consistently linking low serum vitamin D levels with higher CVD risk. Its role in modulating inflammation and oxidative stress, improving endothelial function, and reducing cardiometabolic risk factors supports a comprehensive, multi-modal approach to cardiovascular health. In Singapore, 30-50% of the population, with prevalence higher in Malay ethnic groups, indoor workers etc., remains vitamin D deficient or insufficient despite year-round sunshine.
ILSI Southeast Asia Region and the Department of Metabolism, Nutrition and Health, Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University (NTU), Singapore are hosting a guest lecture by Prof. Dr. Sunil Wimalawansa to share the latest insights on vitamin D and CVD, and its implications in Asia.

			ABOUT THE SPEAKER	

				
				
				
	
	
Prof Dr Sunil J. Wimalawansa
	
 Professor of Medicine, Endocrinology & Nutrition; Director, Cardio-Metabolic & Endocrine Institute, New Jersey, USA
	
Prof Dr Sunil Wimalawansa is a globally renowned expert in endocrinology, osteoporosis and metabolic bone diseases, as well as nutrition and vitamin D. A clinician-scientist with more than three decades of experience, he has served on the scientific review committee of the US NIH and was a past board member of the American Association for Endocrinology.
			
							Full Biography
					
			
Prof Dr Sunil J. Wimalawansa, Professor of Medicine, Endocrinology & Nutrition; Director, Cardio-Metabolic & Endocrine Institute, New Jersey, USA 


Prof. Dr. Wimalawansa is a Professor of Medicine, Director of the CardioMetabolic & Endocrine Institute, and formerly University Professor and Chief of Endocrinology, Metabolism & Nutrition, UMDNJ/Rutgers University. His PhD from the University of London(UK) is in endocrine pathology.  Dr. Wimalawansa is globally renowned in endocrinology, with broad expertise in internal medicine, endocrinology, osteoporosis and metabolic bone diseases, chronic kidney disease, nutrition, vitamin D, water and sanitation, and environmental issues.  He is a clinician-scientist with more than three decades of experience, a faculty member, medical educator, author, researcher, innovator, administrator, leader, and philanthropist. 

He has served on several national and international scientific review committees, including the US NIH, the US Veterans Administration, the Drug Enforcement Agency, and NASA. He is a past board member of the American Association for Endocrinology (AACE/national organization) (2011-2015) and the International Society for Clinical Densitometry (ISCD). 

Dr. Wimalawansa has published over 300 peer-reviewed research articles (11,100+ citations; h-Index of 40), 45 reviews and proceedings, 15 book chapters, and 5 medical books. He holds five medical patents in cardiovascular, osteoporosis, and preeclampsia of pregnancy. He is the author of the book, "Vitamin D: Everything You Need to Know" (2012).

He has made several seminal contributions to medicine, medical research, public health, and pharmaceuticals.  These include development of novel modes of treating osteoporosis, including combination therapies (1985), nitroglycerine (1987), once-a-week bisphosphonates therapy (1995), and a technique to enhance the efficacy of bisphosphonates (1997); and cost-effective therapies, such as nitric oxide donor treatment (e.g., topical nitroglycerine and oral nitrates; 1987) and vitamin E regimens for treating osteoporosis (1997).		

			REGISTRATION	
	
This symposium offers complimentary registration. Due to limited seating, early registration is highly encouraged. Register now by clicking the button below:
			
							Register Here
					
	
Note: Lunch will be served after the lecture.

			ORGANIZERS	

				
	

				
	

			CONTACT	
	
If you have any inquiries, please do not hesitate to contact the following:
	ILSI Southeast Asia Region

18 Mohamed Sultan Road #03-01 Singapore 238967

Tel: 65 6352 5220

Email: event@ilsisea.org.sg


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				Background				
				
								
				
				Program Highlights and Topics				
				
								
				
				Venue				
				
								
				
				About the Organizers				
				
								
				
				About the Sponsors				
				
				
	
					
						Background
					
						
The gut microbiota is a complex and diverse ecosystem comprising over 100 trillion microorganisms located predominantly in the distal gut and plays essential roles in nutrient absorption and metabolism, protection against pathogens, regulation of immune function, and strengthening of the gut and intestinal barriers. Increasing evidence recognises a healthy gut microbiota as a critical determinant of human health, while alterations in its composition and functionality, often referred to as microbial dysbiosis, are associated with metabolic disorders and pathological processes such as inflammatory bowel disease, obesity, metabolic syndrome, autism, and certain cancers. Among the many factors that influence the diversity and composition of the gut microbiota, dietary factors are considered one of the main drivers across the lifetime.
This symposium, co-organized by Food Safety and Quality Programme (FSQP), Ministry of Health, Malaysia, and Nutrition Society of Malaysia (NSM), will focus on 3 bioactive dietary factors in promoting healthy gut microbiota, namely prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics, which are increasingly recognised for their potential health benefits to the host. 
Objectives


The symposium aims to:

Provide scientific updates, including their roles in promoting a healthy gut microbiota
Share research, innovative development and applications in food and supplements
Review of regulatory status in SEA countries
Discuss consumer understanding, perception and utilization


					
						Program Highlights and Topics
					
						

					
						Venue
					
						
The1-day symposium will be held at:

M World Hotel Petaling Jaya (Formerly AVANTE Hotel)

Address: 31, Persiaran Bandar Utama, Bandar Utama, 47800 Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia

Website: www.mworldhotel.com.my
					
						About the Organizers
					
						
ORGANIZER
ILSI SEA Region


ILSI Southeast Asia Region (ILSI SEA Region) is a regional branch of the International Life Sciences Institute (ILSI), a nonprofit, worldwide organization whose mission is to provide science that improves human health and well-being, and safeguards the environment. Established in 1978 and headquartered in Washington, DC, USA, ILSI carries out its work through a global network of 10 entities across the world. ILSI has specialized consultative status with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO).

ILSI SEA Region seeks to achieve ILSI's mission by fostering collaboration among experts from academia, government, and industry, to provide a balance of perspectives and ensure its scientific outcomes are useful at the local, national and international levels. Its activities include scientific meetings and conferences, capability development programs, and research and community projects. ILSI SEA Region's scientific programs are guided by the principles of integrity, independence and transparency. By maintaining our neutrality and independence, we have worked closely and effectively with our key stakeholder groups from academia, industry, international organizations and governments.
CO-ORGANIZERS
Nutrition Society of Malaysia
Established in 1985, the Nutrition Society of Malaysia is a non-profit professional organisation with 500 members, comprising mainly of nutritionists. Its objectives are to 1) promote, advance, and disseminate scientific knowledge of food and nutrition, and 2) promote healthy eating and active living amongst all Malaysians. As a professional organisation, NSM is guided by a simple belief - the more people understand food and nutrition, the better they can care for their health and wellbeing. For that reason, NSM supports the advancement of research, sharing practical insights and important discoveries for the benefits for all. NSM also support the Government's efforts in promoting healthy nutrition in the society to combat nutrient deficiencies as well as diet-related chronic diseases in the country (e.g. obesity, diabetes, hypertension and coronary heart disease). In caring for the community, NSM continuously disseminate practical nutrition information to the young and old alike, guiding them to discover the benefits of good nutrition and a healthy lifestyle.
Food Safety and Quality Programme (FSQP), Ministry of Health, Malaysia
					
						About the Sponsors
					
						
Gold Sponsor
Yakult

More than 90 years ago, Dr. Minoru Shirota, the founder of Yakult, pursued preventive medicine and succeeded in strengthening and culturing our representative strain Lacticaseibacillus paracasei strain Shirota (previously known as Lactobacillus casei strain Shirota). He then released an inexpensive, good-tasting fermented milk drink "Yakult" in 1935 so that as many people as possible could benefit from this lactic acid bacteria. Today, about 40 million bottles of our dairy products are consumed in 40 countries and regions across the world.
Since its founding, as a pioneer in the field of Probiotics, Yakult has been expanding our operations to food and beverages, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical products based on scientific evidence. With the passionate desire of our founder, we contribute to the health and happiness of people around the world through the pursuit of excellence in life science in general and our research and experience in microorganisms in particular.
Silver Sponsor
Beneo

Beneo has long-term experience in developing and producing plant-based functional ingredients from natural sources for the food, feed and pharmaceutical industries. By supporting health and optimising taste and texture, they help improve the nutritional and technical properties of a wide variety of products.
Through a unique chain of expertise, BENEO offers customers advice and inspiration on new product ideas that support a healthy lifestyle in a holistic way. This includes the BENEO-Institute that provides decisive insights into nutrition science and legislation, and the BENEO-Technology Center that consults in application technology.
Formed in 2007, BENEO is active in over 80 countries, employs more than 1200 people and has six state-of-the-art production sites in Belgium, Chile, Germany, Italy and the Netherlands that deliver high-quality ingredients at all times.
 
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			PROGRAM	
	
08:00 - 08:45 hr Registration
	08:45 - 09:00 hr

Opening and Welcome Remarks

Mrs Boon Yee Yeong, ILSI Southeast Asia Region, Singapore

Prof Dr Mahenderan Appukutty, Nutrition Society of Malaysia (NSM), Malaysia


	Keynote Lecture 1 & 2Collapse

Chair: Mr Geoffry Smith, ILSI Southeast Asia Region, Singapore
Featuring the following presentations and speakers:

Keynote Lecture 1: The Human Gut Microbiome Ecosystem in Health and Disease

Prof Patricia Conway, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
Keynote Lecture 2: Healthy Gut Microbiome - the Role of Dietary Factors

Emeritus Prof Margaret Morris, University of New South Wales, Australia

10:20 - 10:40 hr  Q&A

10:40 - 11:00 hr Morning Refreshment Break/ Networking
Session 1: Prebiotics - Current Science and Functional ApplicationsExpand

Chair: Prof Dr Hamid Jan Bin Jan Mohamed, Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), Malaysia
Featuring the following presentations and speakers:

Science, Definition and Applications of Prebiotics for Health  

Dr Stephan Theis, BENEO-Institute, Germany
Decoding the Biological Functions of Human Milk Oligosaccharides: From Human Milk Diversity to Gut-Brain Health

Prof Bing Wang, Charles Sturt University, Australia
HMO Profiles and Maternal Determinants in Multi-Ethnic Asians: Insights from the GUSTO Study  

Dr Han Zhang,Institute for Human Development and Potential (IHDP), A*STAR, Singapore

11:55 - 12:10 hr Q&A

12:10 - 13:00 hr Lunch / Networking
Session 2: Probiotics - From Scientific Evidence to Clinical PracticeExpand

Chair: Prof Teck Yew Low, Sunway University, Malaysia
Featuring the following presentations and speakers:

Effect of Continuous Intake of Fermented Milk with Lacticaseibacillus paracasei strain Shirota on Aflatoxin Exposure

Assoc Prof Dr Mohd Redzwan bin Sabran, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), Malaysia
Food Applications of Probiotics: From Microbiome Science to Health Outcomes  

Dr Chyn Boon Wong, Advanced Research and Technology, Haleon, Singapore
Clinical Practice and Application of Probiotics 

Prof Dr Norfilza Binti Mohd Mokhtar, Research Management Centre (RMC), Management & Science University (MSU), Malaysia

14:00 - 14:15 hr Q&A

13:10 - 14:00 hr Lunch/ Exhibit Viewing / Networking
Session 3: Postbiotics - Emerging Science and Consumer UnderstandingExpand

Chair: Dr Stephan Theis,BENEO-Institute, Germany
Featuring the following presentation and speaker:

Scientific Perspective and Global Consumer Understanding of Postbiotics  

Dr Andy Jin, Royal Agricultural University, United Kingdom
Development of Next Generation Probiotics: Versatile Halal Postbiotics and Cytobiotics  

Prof Dr Hooi Ling Foo, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), Malaysia

14:55 - 15:05 hr  Q&A

15:05 - 15:25 hr  Afternoon Refreshment Break / Networking
Session 4: Regulatory Landscape of Pre-, Pro- and Postbiotics in SEAExpand

Chair: Ms Pauline Chan, ILSI Southeast Asia Region, Philippines
Featuring the following presentations and speakers:

Country sharing: Malaysia  

Ts Nurul Hidayati Mohd Nasir, Food Safety and Quality Programme (FSQP), Ministry of Health Malaysia
Country sharing: China

Prof Dr Xuesong Xiang, Institute of Nutrition and Health, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, China
Country sharing: Thailand 

Ms Dissaya Kittithanavimon,Thai Food and Drug Administration, Ministry of Public Health, Thailand
Country sharing: Indonesia

Prof Purwiyatno Hariyadi,IPB University, Indonesia

16:30 - 16:50 hr Q&A
Panel Discussion: Turning Microbiome Science into Meaningful Health OutcomesExpand
 
16:50 - 17:25 hr Panel Discussion: Turning Microbiome Science into Meaningful Health Outcomes


Moderator: Dr E Siong Tee, TES Nutrihealth Strategic Consultancy, Malaysia
Panelists:

Prof Dr Hooi Ling Foo, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), Malaysia
Dr Chyn Boon Wong, Advanced Research and Technology, Haleon, Singapore
Ts Nurul Hidayati binti Mohd Nasir, Food Safety and Quality Programme (FSQP), Ministry of Health, Malaysia

 
	17:25 - 17:30 hr

Closing Remarks

Mr Geoffry Smith, ILSI Southeast Asia Region, Singapore
End of Symposium
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			CHAIRPERSONS AND MODERATOR	

					
	
	Mr Geoffry Smith

ILSI Southeast Asia Region, Singapore


Biography
Mr Geoffry Smith, ILSI Southeast Asia Region, Singapore

Mr. Geoff Smith serves as President of ILSI SEA Region based in Singapore, and co-representative to the global ILSI Assembly. ILSI SEA Region was established as a regional branch of the world-wide scientific-foundation ILSI in 1993, covering ASEAN and Australasia. 
Mr. Smith is also the Chairman of the Essential Micronutrients Foundation, a non-profit organization which addresses micronutrient deficiencies globally as a public health issue. He is a past Member of the Executive Committee of the global ILSI Board. Prior to his current positions, Mr. Smith was the Global Director, Health Chelates for AkzoNobel Functional Chemicals. He was responsible for the global project within AkzoNobel addressing iron deficiency anemia, which resulted in completely revised guidelines by the World Health Organization for flour fortification with iron. A thirty-year veteran of the chemical industry in Asia-Pacific and globally, Mr. Smith has resided in Singapore for more than 30 years. 

					
	
	Prof Dr Hamid Jan Bin Jan Mohamed

Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), Malaysia


Biography
Prof Dr Hamid Jan Bin Jan Mohamed, Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), Malaysia

Professor Dr Hamid Jan Bin Jan Mohamed has been a professor at the Nutrition Programme, Universiti Sains Malaysia USM) since 2007. He joined this institution immediately after completing his PhD (Nutrition) at King's College London, United Kingdom. He holds a Master's Degree in Nutrition from Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia and Bachelor's Degree in Nutrition and Community Health from Universiti Putra Malaysia. He received extensive training in laboratory skills from the Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology Course at USM.

The diversity of his educational background contributed to the creation of several novel research related to nutrition and disease in Malaysia. Dr Hamid Jan initiated the first birth cohort in Malaysia named the USM Pregnancy Cohort Study which started in 2009. This cohort was aimed at investigating the role of maternal nutrition, oxidative stress and adipokines in the development of obesity and diabetes. The findings of this study are published in several local and international journals. Currently, Prof. Hamid is working on several intervention projects related to the prevention of stunting in children.

At USM , he is the Deputy Dean of Research, Innovation and Industry-Community Engagement. He also works closely with the Ministry of Health Malaysia as a committee member of the Technical Working Group for Nutrition Guidelines (Children/Adults/Elderly) and other consultative activities. He is currently the Chairman of Technical Working Group (Nutrition Research) for the Ministry of Health Malaysia and is a Science Advisor of ILSI SEA Region. He is  a Council Member of the Developmental Origin of Health and Disease Society (DOHaD). Currently, he is the vice-president of the Nutrition Society of Malaysia. He is the recipient of the Top Research Scientists Malaysia Award 2024 by Academy of Sciences Malaysia.

					
	
	Prof Teck Yew Low

Sunway University, Malaysia


Biography
Prof Teck Yew Low, Sunway University, Malaysia

Professor Low Teck Yew brings over two decades of research experience in proteomics, biological mass spectrometry, and proteogenomics. He is internationally recognized for his high-impact publications, invited talks at global conferences, and leadership roles in prominent scientific organizations. Through active involvement in interdisciplinary projects and a strong international network, he contributes significantly to global proteomics initiatives. Beyond his research, Professor Low is a passionate mentor and educator who fosters critical thinking and intellectual curiosity through innovative teaching methods. His leadership in AOHUPO and HUPO plays a key role in identifying and nurturing the next generation of international research talent.

					
	
	Dr Stephan Theis

BENEO-Institute, Germany
Biography
Dr Stephan Theis, BENEO-Institute, Germany

Dr. Stephan Theis is Head of Nutrition Science and Communication at the BENEO-Institute. He leads global research on the nutritional and health benefits of functional ingredients such as prebiotic dietary fibres and Palatinose™ and oversees scientific communication. Having joined the Südzucker/BENEO Group in 2001, he holds a diploma in Nutrition Science from the University of Giessen and a PhD from the Technical University of Munich. Stephan is a member of the Senior Leadership Team of BENEO and a founding member of the BENEO-Institute inaugurated in 2009. He is actively involved in international scientific committees and collaborative research projects including several Committees of the International Life Science Institute (ILSI) and provides nutritional expertise to regulatory approval work and marketing activities.

					
	
	Ms Pauline Chan

ILSI Southeast Asia Region, Singapore
Biography
Ms Pauline Chan, ILSI Southeast Asia Region, Singapore

As Director of Science Programs, Pauline has extensive experience in developing scientific programs and facilitating dialogue between scientists, government regulators, and industry to address regional and international issues in nutrition, food safety, sustainability and health. A frequently invited resource speaker at conferences and seminars, Ms. Chan is a registered dietitian (RD) with the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Ms. Chan received her M.Sc. in Nutrition and Dietetics from New York University, USA, and her B.Sc. in Chemistry from the Chinese University of Hong Kong.

					
	
	Dr E Siong Tee

TES Nutrihealth Strategic Consultancy, Malaysia
Biography
Dr E Siong Tee, TES Nutrihealth Strategic Consultancy, Malaysia

Dr E Siong Tee has been a Member of the Board of Directors of ILSI SEA Region since 1996 and Scientific Coordinator of ILSI Malaysia Country Committee since 2005. He is currently a Nutrition Consultant for TES NutriHealth Strategic Consultancy. Dr. Tee was Head of the Cardiovascular, Diabetes and Nutrition Research Centre of the Institute for Medical Research (IMR) in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, until his retirement in February 2002, after serving for 30 years. He was President of the Nutrition Society of Malaysia (NSM) till March 2024. In this capacity, he has led the implementation of various community nutrition promotion programs including the Nutrition Month Malaysia programme since 2002. He is also Vice-President of the Federation of Asian Nutrition Societies (FANS). Dr Tee is a member of several Technical Working Groups of the Ministry of Health Malaysia, including the committees related to Malaysian Food Regulations and Codex Alimentarius. He initiated the formation of the Southeast Asia Public Health Nutrition (SEA-PHN) Network in 2014 and is the current Chairman of the Network. Dr Tee is also Adjunct Professor of the IMU University, Malaysia.

			SYMPOSIUM SPEAKERS	

					
	
	Prof Patricia Conway

Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
Biography
Prof Patricia Conway, Singapore Centre for Environmental Life Sciences Engineering (SCELSE), Nanyang Technological University (NTU), Singapore

Prof Patricia Conway is Visiting Professor of the Singapore Centre for Environmental Life Sciences Engineering (SCELSE), Singapore and CEO of PC Biome Pte Ltd. She was Professor at the School of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering and in the Nanyang Technological University (NTU) Food Technology Centre, NTU. She has extensive research and industry R&D experience, including authorship on over 100 scientific papers in international journals, monographs or book chapters, and numerous plenary or keynote lectures at international meetings. She is inventor on over 20 patent applications and Principal Investigator on grants in Sweden, Australia and Singapore. Prof Conway's research interests are gastrointestinal microbiology, functional foods including probiotics and prebiotics. She has a particular focus on bacterial colonization of the gastrointestinal tract and mechanisms of bacterial adhesion, pathogen inhibition and immune modulation in animals and humans in order to develop ways of modulating the microbiome for health.

					
	
	Emeritus Prof Margaret Morris

University of New South Wales, Australia
Biography
Emeritus Prof Margaret Morris, National University of New South Wales, Australia

Emeritus Professor Margaret Morris (FRSN, BScPhD Monash) is a neuropharmacologist who established the Environmental Determinants of Obesity Research lab at UNSW in 2005. Her research addresses critical questions concerning the impact of adverse early life events and lifestyle factors on chronic disease risk, and lifestyle and pharmacological options for intervention. NH&MRC funded work includes intergenerational transmission of obesity and the psychology of eating, e.g. how does provision of a varied, energy rich diet override the control mechanisms that should maintain body weight?  The impacts of maternal obesity, cycling between healthy and unhealthy diets, and time restricted feeding, on metabolic health, composition of the gut microbiome and cognitive function is a key interest.  

Morris was the inaugural Professor and Head of Pharmacology at UNSW. Having held other key academic positions (Melbourne, Deakin, Flinders Universities) educating health professionals (Medicine, Nursing, Optometry, Dentistry, Exercise Science) and Science students, she was instrumental in driving curriculum development and postgraduate training. 

					
	
	Dr Stephan Theis

BENEO-Institute, Germany
Biography
Dr Stephan Theis, BENEO-Institute, Germany

Dr. Stephan Theis is Head of Nutrition Science and Communication at the BENEO-Institute. He leads global research on the nutritional and health benefits of functional ingredients such as prebiotic dietary fibres and Palatinose™ and oversees scientific communication. Having joined the Südzucker/BENEO Group in 2001, he holds a diploma in Nutrition Science from the University of Giessen and a PhD from the Technical University of Munich. Stephan is a member of the Senior Leadership Team of BENEO and a founding member of the BENEO-Institute inaugurated in 2009. He is actively involved in international scientific committees and collaborative research projects including several Committees of the International Life Science Institute (ILSI) and provides nutritional expertise to regulatory approval work and marketing activities.

					
	
	Prof Bing Wang

 Charles Sturt University, Australia
Biography
 Prof Bing Wang, Charles Sturt University, Australia

Professor Bing Wang received her medical degree from Tianjin Medical University, China, and a PhD in Nutritional Biochemistry from the University of Sydney, Australia. She has been a registered Nutritionist with the Nutrition Society of Australia (NSA) since 2008. Before joining Charles Sturt University in December 2012, she led Nutritional Neurodevelopment Research programs in both academia and industry. Her research focuses on elucidating the molecular mechanisms by which nutrient components influence metabolic responses critical for neurodevelopment and cognition from fetal stages to late life, with a strong emphasis on translating basic science into clinical and industrial applications. Professor Wang is internationally recognised for her contributions to Pediatric Nutrition, Nutritional Glycoscience, and Nutritional Neurodevelopment, particularly for advancing understanding of the role of sialic acid, human milk oligosaccharides and lactoferrin in human nutrition. She was elected a Fellow of the NSA in 2023.

					
	
	Dr Han Zhang

 Institute for Human Development and Potential (IHDP), A*STAR, Singapore
Biography
Dr Han Zhang, Institute for Human Development and Potential (IHDP), A*STAR, Singapore

Dr Zhang is a developmental cognitive neuroscientist whose work seeks to deepen the mechanistic understanding of how maternal and early-life environmental factors shape offspring neurodevelopment and mental well-being. Grounded in the Developmental Origins of Health and Disease (DOHaD) framework, her research focuses on identifying plausible targets of neuroplasticity and psychological resilience that promote optimal developmental trajectories. Utilizing neuroimaging (MRI), cognitive-behavioral profiles, and computational modeling, she systemically explores modifiable drivers in relation to brain development. Her current research focuses on how early nutritional exposures-such as Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMOs), which are closely tied to the gut-brain axis, and other nutritional markers-influence offspring neurodevelopment. Dr Zhang actively leverages large-scale birth cohorts and multidisciplinary collaborations, aiming to contribute to evidence-based, actionable insights to inform public health and foster resilient developmental pathways.

					
	
	Assoc Prof Dr Mohd Redzwan bin Sabran

Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), Malaysia
Biography
Assoc Prof Dr Mohd Redzwan bin Sabran, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), Malaysia

Dr. Mohd Redzwan Bin Sabran is an Associate Professor in the Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM). He obtained his bachelor's degree in biomedical science with a specialization in Nutrition from the University of Auckland, New Zealand, in 2010, followed by a PhD in Nutritional Sciences from UPM in 2014. During his doctoral training, he was a Research Scholar at the Molecular Biomarkers Laboratory, University of Georgia, USA (2012-2013), where he gained experience in environmental health and molecular biomarker research. Besides, he is also a Research Associate at the Laboratory of Food Safety and Food Integrity, Institute of Tropical Agriculture and Food Security (ITAFoS), UPM.

His research focuses on nutritional sciences and food safety, with interests in probiotics and prebiotics, dietary strategies to mitigate food contaminant exposure, and the value-added utilization of agricultural by-products. Through two human intervention studies conducted in collaboration with Yakult Honsha Co., Ltd., Japan, and Yakult (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd., his research demonstrated the potential of the probiotic Lacticaseibacillus paracasei strain Shirota (LcS) as a safe, dietary-based approach for reducing aflatoxin exposure in healthy adults. Through his research and collaborative partnerships, he is dedicated to advancing evidence-based nutrition and food safety to improve public health and promote sustainable food systems.

					
	
	Dr Chyn Boon Wong

Advanced Research and Technology, Haleon, Singapore
Biography
Dr Chyn Boon Wong,  Advanced Research and Technology, Haleon, Singapore

 Dr Chyn Boon is a Principal Scientist in the Advanced Research and Technology team at Haleon, based in Singapore. She is a PhD microbiologist with more than 12 years of experience in gut microbiome science, probiotics, postbiotics, healthy ageing, and translational wellness innovation. Her work focuses on translating emerging science into consumer-relevant opportunities through cross-functional R&D leadership, external innovation, and platform strategy. Before joining Haleon, she held research, scientific communication, and commercial strategy roles at Morinaga Milk Industry in Japan, where she translated biotics science into application-ready propositions for global B2B customers. She is passionate about making complex science actionable, credible, and meaningful for everyday health innovation.

					
	
	Prof Dr Norfilza Binti Mohd Mokhtar

Research Management Centre (RMC), Management & Science University (MSU), Malaysia
Biography
Prof Dr Norfilza Binti Mohd Mokhtar, Research Management Centre (RMC), Management & Science University (MSU), Malaysia

Prof. Dr. Norfilza Mohd Mokhtar is currently Vice President for Research at Management and Science University (MSU), Malaysia. Her expertise lies in molecular medicine, with a strong research focus on gastrointestinal health, gut microbiota, digestive diseases, and the role of probiotics in human health.

She has held significant academic and administrative roles, including leadership positions at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), and has also contributed internationally as an Adjunct Professor in Arabian Gulf University, Bahrain. Deeply committed to education, she is actively involved in supervising postgraduate students in the medical and health sciences fields.

Her research portfolio is extensive, covering emerging areas such as microplastics and their impact on health, as well as non-communicable diseases. She has secured numerous national and international research grants and has published widely in reputable scientific journals.

					
	
	Dr Andy Jin

Royal Agricultural University, United Kingdom
Biography
Dr Andy Jin, Royal Agricultural University, United Kingdom

Dr Jin is a transdisciplinary social science researcher. He integrates theories and methods from social psychology, sociology, and economics to examine how individuals and societies respond to risk and sustainability challenges in the agri-food sector, with the aim of informing socially robust and policy-relevant agri-food solutions. He has extensive experience working on interdisciplinary agri-food projects across Asia and Europe, and to date his research has led to over 35 peer-reviewed academic publications.

Before joining RAU, Dr Jin was a Senior Lecturer at the University of Portsmouth (2021-2025) and a Research Associate at Newcastle University (2019-2021). Prior to his academic career, he also worked with international organisations and private companies. He is currently the Programme Leader for MSc Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security (RAU at Qingdao Agricultural University Joint Institute).

					
	
	Prof Dr Hooi Ling Foo

Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), Malaysia
Biography
Prof Dr Hooi Ling Foo, Department of Bioprocess Technology, 
Faculty of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), Malaysia

Prof Dr Hooi Ling is a Professor of Industrial Biotechnology at the Faculty of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM). She is the current head of the University-Driven Research Programme on Lactic Acid Bacteria Biota Technology at the Research Laboratory of Probiotics and Cancer Therapeutics, Institute of Bioscience, UPM. 

Prof. Foo has broad research interests that encompass the application of lactic acid bacteria and their bioactive derivatives. She has authored 2 technical books, 6 book chapters and over 145 articles in peer-reviewed journals (Scopus Citations: 5,306; H-index: 42). Moreover, 20 of 33 patents were filed as the project leader and 10 patents were granted in Malaysia, Australia, Singapore, China, Japan, the USA and Korea. Hence, she has 5 commercialisation experiences with the granted patents. With the experience in commercialisation, Prof. Foo has been elected as an executive council member of the Malaysia Laboratories for Academia-Business Collaboration (MyLAB) Research Programme of the Ministry of Higher Education of Malaysia since 2023. 

Prof. Foo is also active in various scientific societies. She has been the elected Vice President of the Asian Federation of Societies for Lactic Acid Bacteria (AFSLAB) since 2019. She was the organising chair of the 12th Asian Congress of Lactic Acid Bacteria (ACLAB 12, 20-22nd September 2022). She has also been the elected President of the Malaysian Society for Lactic Acid Bacteria (MSLAB) since 2021. Additionally, she has a long-standing record of contributions to the Malaysian Society for Microbiology (MSM). She served as Honorary Secretary from 2004-2006, Honorary Treasurer from 2006-2015, Vice President from 2015-2017 and Honorary Auditor from 2017-2019.

					
	
	Ts. Nurul Hidayati Mohd. Nasir

Food Safety and Quality Programme, Ministry of Health Malaysia
Biography
Ts. Nurul Hidayati Mohd. Nasir, Food Safety and Quality Programme, Ministry of Health Malaysia

Ts. Nurul Hidayati Mohd. Nasir is a Nutritionist with the Food Safety and Quality Programme, Ministry of Health Malaysia, where she has served since 2008. Her key responsibilities include reviewing applications related to food labelling, nutrition labelling, and health claims, as well as contributing to amendments to the Malaysian Food Regulations. She serves as the Secretariat to the Expert Committee on Nutrition, Health Claims and Advertising, which evaluates applications for nutrition and health claims, and also as the Secretariat to the Codex Committee on Nutrition and Foods for Special Dietary Uses (CCNFSDU), coordinating Malaysia's draft responses and national positions on issues concerning foods for special dietary uses. In addition, Ts. Nurul Hidayati is a panel member of the Organic Food Certification Scheme and serves as a member of the Rare Diseases Committee and the Committee on the Code of Ethics for the Marketing of Infant Foods, Ministry of Health Malaysia. She was a key contributor to the development of the Malaysian Vegetarian Dietary Guidelines. Her professional interests focus on food labelling, nutrition, and food regulatory affairs.

					
	
	Prof Dr Xuesong Xiang

Institute of Nutrition and Health, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, China
Biography
Prof Dr Xuesong Xiang, Institute of Nutrition and Health, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, China

Prof Dr Xuesong Xiang is a Professor at the National Institute for Nutrition and Health, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (China CDC). He serves as a Council Member of the Chinese Nutrition Society (CNS), Vice Chair and Secretary-General of the Probiotic, Prebiotic and Health Branch of the CNS, a Standing Committee Member of the Food Hygiene Branch of the Chinese Preventive Medicine Association, and a Member of the Asia-Pacific Branch of the International Carbohydrate Quality Consortium (ICQC-AP).

His research expertise encompasses dietary nutrition, gut microbiota, and the evaluation of scientific evidence on probiotics and prebiotics. He has authored more than 60 publications in national and international peer-reviewed journals and co-edited 14 books on nutrition, making significant contributions to the advancement of nutrition science and public health.

Prof. Xiang has also played a pivotal role in the development of national and industry standards, as well as expert consensus statements in China. As the lead drafter and principal author, he contributed to several landmark Chinese Nutrition Society (CNS) Expert Consensus documents, including those on probiotics, prebiotics, postbiotics, and the definition and sources of dietary fibre.

					
	
	Ms Dissaya Kittithanavimon

Thai Food and Drug Administration, Ministry of Public Health, Thailand
Biography
Ms Dissaya Kittithanavimon, Thai Food and Drug Administration, Ministry of Public Health, Thailand

Ms. Dissaya Kittithanavimon is a Food and Drug Technical Officer, Professional Level, at Food division, Thai Food and Drug Administration, Ministry of Public Health. She received her Master Degree in Food and Nutrition Toxicology from Mahidol University. She has over 14 years of experience in food regulatory affairs, responsible for establishing food safety regulations under the Food Act B.E. 2522 (1979) by synthesizing scientific evidence with socio-economic impact assessments to ensure practical and effective implementation. The role also encompasses managing and updating food safety standards and regulations, especially in area of food additives, microbial food cultures and probiotics, alongside conducting safety assessments for use of probiotic microorganisms in food and chemicals of interest. Her work includes the collaboration among academics, business operators, and the public sector for ensuring food safety with fair practices in food trade and creating a health-conducive food ecosystem for better consumer well-being.

					
	
	Prof Purwiyatno Hariyadi

IPB University, Indonesia
Biography
Prof Purwiyatno Hariyadi, IPB University, Indonesia

Prof. Dr. Purwiyatno Hariyadi is Professor of Food Processing and Engineering at IPB University (Bogor Agricultural University), Indonesia. He previously served as Vice Dean (1995-2000), Head of the Department of Food Science and Technology (2000-2004), and Director of the Southeast Asian Food and Agricultural Science and Technology (SEAFAST) Center (2005-2015).

He is actively engaged in national and international professional communities, including the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT) and the Institute for Thermal Processing Specialists (IFTPS). He has held leadership roles as President of the Indonesian Palm Oil Society (2005-2009) and President of the Indonesian Association of Food Technologists (2006-2010). He serves on the Experts Panel of Indonesia's National Food Agency and Food and Drug Authority and advises government and industry. Internationally, he has been involved in Codex Alimentarius since 2010 and served as Vice-Chair of the Codex Alimentarius Commission (2017-2021). He is also Chief Editor of FoodReview Indonesia.

His research and teaching focus on food processing and engineering (including thermal and aseptic processing), post-harvest processing (particularly palm oil), and food regulatory sciences, reflecting his extensive Codex experience. He teaches food processing, thermal processing, food safety regulatory practices, and professional ethics, and supervises graduate students in these areas.

He is a member of the Indonesian Academy of Sciences (2012) and the International Academy of Food Science and Technology (2016). He earned his Ph.D. in Food Chemistry (minor in Chemical Engineering) from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1995.

			CONTACT	
	
If you have any inquiries, please do not hesitate to contact us through:
	For Local Participants:

Dr. Tee E Siong

Email: estee@nutrihealth.com.my
For Overseas Participants:

ILSI Southeast Asia Region

18 Mohamed Sultan Road #03-01 Singapore 238967

Tel: 65 6352 5220

Email: event@ilsisea.org.sg


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