Page 35 - NATIONAL INSTITUTES OF HEALTH (NIH) GUIDELINES FOR CONDUCTING RESEARCH IN MINISTRY OF HEALTH (MOH) INSTITUTIONS & FACILITIES 3RD EDITION 2021

8. MOH Research Grant (MRG)

8.1. Introduction

The MOH Malaysia Research Grant or MRG is a research fund that supports health research
and development (R&D) activities based on the priority areas (research that will benefit the
MOH-return of investment (ROI)) set by the MOH with the aim to improve population health
and health delivery services.

The objectives of MRG are to i) provide funding to generate new scientific knowledge and
discoveries, ii) to improve health delivery services, and iii) to encourage the development of
innovative technologies among the MOH investigators.
8.2. Mode of Application

MRG applications can be submitted throughout the year via NMRR. Submissions must be
made together with research registration, application to JPPNIH, and MREC.

**MRG applications for research that have received ethical approval will not be entertained.

8.3. Criteria for Application

i. The PI must be a MOH personnel;
ii. The research funding period shall not exceed three (3) years;
iii. PI is allowed to apply and submit only two (2) research submissions at a time;
iv. Investigators who are on study leave are not allowed to be PI. However, he/she can be
a Sub-I;
v. PI who has change department/affiliation/resigns/on study leave must not continue his
role as a PI. However, can still remain as a member of the research group. The PI must
notify MRG Secretariat in writing and nominate a new PI whenever such a situation
occurs. An amendment must be submitted to MREC under such circumstances (as per
post ethical approval submission).

8.4. MRG Review Panel

The MRG Review Panel is chaired by the Deputy Director-General of Health (Research and
Technical Support), MOH. Research that has been evaluated by the JPP-NIH Panel and has
received MREC approval will be brought to the MRG Review Panel for evaluation. The decision
made by the panel is final.

8.5. Priority in Research Evaluation

i. Research that can support and improve an existing policy, methodology, and solution
model according to the needs of the MOH; or
ii. Research covering health issues for the purpose of increasing the value of life in the
country and globally; or
iii. Research must identify and obtain the support of MOH stakeholders; or
iv. Research that has the potential to contribute to the national strategic plan.

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