UKM PhD Student Selected as International Alzheimer Ambassador
A PhD student from Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) has been selected as one of 43 individuals worldwide to serve as an ISTAART Ambassador 2025 by the Alzheimer’s Association International Society to Advance Alzheimer’s Research and Treatment (ISTAART). Amirul Hafiz Ahmad Abdullah from the Faculty of Health Sciences represents Malaysia as the sole appointee from the country.
Key Details
Amirul Hafiz’s appointment runs from April 2025 to April 2026, positioning him as Malaysia’s and UKM’s single representative among the global community of young researchers advocating for Alzheimer’s and dementia awareness and research. The PhD student was shortlisted from more than 200 international candidates representing over 40 countries.
His selection marks recognition of his leadership potential, advocacy commitment, and academic excellence in neurodegenerative disease research. His PhD research titled “Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) and proBDNF Pathway Regulation in Gasdermin D (GSDMD) Piroptosis Activation as Early Biomarkers in Alzheimer’s Disease Development” offers new approaches to understanding early Alzheimer’s mechanisms, contributing to his ISTAART ambassador appointment.
The ISTAART Ambassador program, introduced in 2010 by the Chicago-based Alzheimer’s Association, appoints young researchers worldwide to expand ISTAART’s scientific networks and communities while building cross-country cooperation supporting global Alzheimer’s research missions.
Quotes & Reactions
“As a young researcher, I see this responsibility not only as recognition, but also a space to bring regional voices to the global stage,” said Amirul Hafiz. He expressed gratitude for the appointment and hopes it will open more opportunities for cross-country collaboration in Alzheimer’s disease research.
Amirul Hafiz also stated his commitment to continue raising public awareness about dementia through research and open science communication.
His main supervisor Dr. Farah Wahida Ibrahim described the appointment as a major achievement reflecting the quality of research and guidance at UKM. She emphasized that active student involvement in such platforms opens international collaboration opportunities and instills leadership values among young researchers.
Background & Context
Through the ambassador program, ISTAART Ambassadors receive exclusive access to scientific conference networks organized by the Alzheimer’s Association and receive personal mentoring and career development training.
This achievement aligns with Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) aspirations, specifically SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, highlighting UKM’s commitment to elevating health research to the world stage through strategic international cooperation.
