Who would have thought sesame oil could offer benefits beyond its aromatic appeal in cooking?
A groundbreaking research collaboration between Universiti Kuala Lumpur (UniKL) and Ghee Hiang Manufacturing Co. Sdn Bhd has unveiled that sesame oil products produced by Ghee Hiang are naturally rich in Omega fatty acids and Vitamin E.
More importantly, the discovery of its high antioxidant content has prompted both parties to explore the development of sesame oil capsules enriched with red yeast rice, aimed at promoting health benefits, including cholesterol reduction.
“Our collaboration, which began in 2022, has been focused on exploring the health benefits of sesame oil and developing a new range of sesame-based healthcare products.
“Ghee Hiang, with its 169-year legacy and renowned expertise in quality food production, is now joining forces with UniKL’s advanced research capabilities and student talent.
“We propose to co-develop a health supplement in the form of sesame seed capsules, enhanced with red yeast rice, designed to deliver antioxidant and cholesterol-lowering benefits. UniKL MESTECH will carry out comprehensive research to evaluate the product’s efficacy using established scientific models,” said Prof. Ir. Dr. Azman Senin, President/Chief Executive Officer of UniKL.
Prof. Dr. Azman was speaking at the Memorandum of Agreement Exchange Ceremony held in Penang.
Among those present were Senior Assistant Director of the Halal Management Division, Puan Nor Liza Mohamad; Penang State EXCO for Youth, Sports & Health, YB Daniel Gooi Zi Sen; Executive Director of Ghee Hiang Manufacturing Co., Dato’ Chng Huck Theng; Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Industry and Community Network) of Universiti Sains Malaysia, Professor Dr. Azlan Amran; and Deputy Director (Medical) of the Penang State Health Department, Dr. Premalosini Ramanathan.
Recently, Ghee Hiang and the UniKL Institute of Medical Science Technology (UniKL MESTECH) co-published a study in the Malaysian Journal of Medicine and Health Sciences, highlighting the bioactive potential of sesame oil.
The study suggests that sesame oil possesses natural antioxidant and antibacterial properties, which may support overall well-being and contribute to preventive healthcare strategies.
Beyond the research collaboration, UniKL also proposes a two-way exchange of expertise—combining the university’s strengths in research and innovation with Ghee Hiang’s manufacturing know-how.
This includes providing opportunities for UniKL students to undergo industrial internships and hands-on training at Ghee Hiang’s facilities, enriching their practical experience and preparing them for real-world industry challenges.
