Innovation product development to curb the spread of Covid-19 by public universities in the east coast of Malaysia

ABSTRACT

The Covid-19 pandemic that hit the country in early 2020 has changed the lifestyles of people around the world. Day after day, the impact of this pandemic seems to be endless but the number of daily cases in Malaysia is increasing and the situation is very worrying for the country. Based on this scenario, facing this pandemic is an urgency while addressing it is a necessity that all Malaysians, including public university (PU) citizens, should face. The main objective of this paper is to identify the need for product innovation during the Covid-19 pandemic as well as direct involvement of the PU in the East Coast zone of Malaysia namely Kelantan, Terengganu, and Pahang. Seven PU were selected namely UniSZA and UMT in Terengganu, UiTM, USM and UMK in Kelantan as well as UMP and UIAM in Pahang. The selection was made based on direct involvement in the development of innovative products based on the internet search. It also recognizes the capabilities, expertise, and facilities available especially in the areas of design, technology, and manufacturing. The information presented in this paper is fully obtained through literature studies, direct observations, and findings from previous research. Several examples of innovative products such as sanitation tunnels, personal protective equipment, cubical and disinfectant fluids developed by the seven PU's are presented and clearly described in their manufacturing, technology and uses. This paper concludes that the contribution of the innovative products provided by the PU had a huge impact on the country. This noble effort is a testimony of the love among Malaysians that is very strong in the face of misfortune, and it must be continued for the well-being of the people and the prosperity of the country.