Malaysian Genomics Resource Centre Berhad announced two significant research collaboration agreements with Universiti Sains Malaysia, Malaysia's premier research university renowned for their commitment to enhancing educational and research excellence. The first agreement focuses on exploring the genetics of Penang Woman through an in-depth study aiming to extract and analyse genetic materials from Penang Woman specimens. Under this collaboration, USM will provide the genetic materials and technical assistance for DNA sequencing, while MGRC Therapeutics ("MGRCT") will undertake the genomic DNA extraction and whole genome sequencing utilising the extracted materials, as well as providing funding support.

The collaboration encompasses joint responsibilities including the preparation of a final research report, sharing of knowledge, and co-authoring a peer-reviewed publication based on the research findings. Parallel to this, a second agreement has been forged to determine the age of an ancient Penang Woman skeleton using the Accelerator Mass Spectrometry Dating technique, alongside conducting Optically Stimulated Luminescence dating on Guar Kepah pottery. For this project, USM will leverage on their AMS dating expertise, with MGRCT providing funding support.

Both parties will engage in data analysis, interpretation, and co-author a manuscript for peer-reviewed publication, contributing significantly to the understanding of human history in the region. These collaborations are set against the backdrop of limited informative genetic data from ancient Indigenous people of Sunda and Sahul, two prehistoric landmasses that have intrigued scientists and historians alike. The recent discovery of the Penang Woman, unearthed at Guar Kepah, Kepala Batas, Penang in April 2017, presents a unique opportunity to extend the sample coverage and deepen the understanding of the genetic makeup and historical context of the region's ancient inhabitants.