ENGINEERING INNOVATION FOR THE WELL-BEING OF SENIOR CITIZENS 

The School of Mechanical Engineering, Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), has successfully developed the Motorized Lifter and Transfer Device (NEAR-1) — a motor-assisted aid designed to ease caregivers’ work while enhancing the safety of elderly individuals during transfer processes.

What began as a simple idea has grown into a student-driven project led by Prof. Dr. Zaidi Mohd Ripin, Dr. Mohamad Ikhwan Zaini Ridzwan, Mr. Wan Mohd Amri Wan Mamat Ali, and Mr. Baharom Awang. Through this initiative, students were directly involved in designing, building, and testing the NEAR-1 prototype, applying engineering knowledge in real-world situations to benefit the community.

NEAR-1 assists caregivers in transferring individuals with limited mobility — such as moving them from a bed to a wheelchair or into a vehicle — without the need for manual lifting. This significantly reduces physical strain and minimizes the risk of muscle injuries and back pain commonly experienced by caregivers.

Testing and demonstrations were conducted with caregivers and nurses at Pusat Jagaan Darul Hanan, the Advanced Medical and Dental Institute (IPPT) Bertam, and Hospital USM in Kubang Kerian. Feedback received indicated that NEAR-1 is easy to use, safe, and effective for daily elderly care operations.

The project was implemented with the support of Yayasan Inovasi Malaysia through the MyIS Komuniti programme, reflecting the important role of engineering in addressing real societal challenges. As a result of the project, six units of NEAR-1 were officially handed over to Pusat Jagaan Darul Hanan on 22 January 2026 for actual use in elderly care and transfer activities.

📌 Technology that eases caregivers’ tasks while improving safety in elderly care.