The Research and Postgraduate Centre congratulates Asst. Prof. Dr. Yang Chia Yen from the School of Economics and Management on being awarded a research grant of JPY390,000 from The Sumitomo Foundation, Japan. 

This research project aims to investigate the influence of Japanese culture on Malaysians using an experimental research design. The findings are expected to provide practical implications for policymakers and contribute to long-term societal well-being in Malaysia.

This year, only 65 out of 1,256 research proposals were selected across 16 regions, including China, Indonesia, Singapore, and Korea. According to statistics provided by The Sumitomo Foundation, only 12 out of 523 applicants from Malaysia received funding, resulting in an acceptance rate of just 2.29% (Tables 1 and 2).

Source: The Sumitomo Foundation, Japan. Applications were submitted in 2025, and successful proposals were awarded in 2026.

Source: The Sumitomo Foundation, Japan. Applications were submitted in 2025, and successful proposals were awarded in 2026.

The Japan-Related Research Projects Programme, established by The Sumitomo Foundation, aims to strengthen cultural and academic ties across Asia. By supporting research in the humanities and social sciences, the programme promotes greater mutual understanding between Japan and other Asian countries. In addition to the humanities and social sciences, The Sumitomo Foundation supports initiatives in basic science, environmental conservation, and international exchange through its other funding programmes.

Dr. Yang Chia Yen is an Assistant Professor at Xiamen University Malaysia's School of Economics and Management. Her research expertise includes consumer behaviour, services marketing, sustainable marketing, and digital business. Prior to joining academia, she worked as an Art Director in the IT industry, providing web solutions consultancy services to clients such as Hotel InterContinental Kuala Lumpur, TGV Cinemas, Smart Glove, Setia Haruman, and the publishers of Female and Marie Claire magazines.