Communication Strategy

Policymakers
DARPA,
678 Jalan Tun Jugah,
Kuching,
Sarawak, Malaysia
2nd May 2015
The Honorary Yang Berhormat Datuk Everdeen,
The Ministry of Health, Science and Technology,
Lorong 3, Level 6, No.8,
Federal Government Administrative centre,
Putrajaya, 47800,
Malaysia.
Dear Sir,
I am currently working as a researcher at DARPA, where for the past few years we have been
researching and developing a new innovation that could vastly improve the lifestyle of upper
limb amputees. Our research focuses on the development of prosthetic hands that is able to
restore the lost sense of touch which comparatively to currently commercialized prosthetic
arms, it is more effective and efficient. Therefore, our research is aimed to be used in
hospitals, and therapy rehabilitation centres to provide a more independent and a better
quality of life for the amputees and veterans of our country.
An overview of how this is accomplished is by the implantation two small electrodes with the
capability of intelligent self-stimulation into the nerves of the amputee (Rossini P.M. et al.,
2010). From this, the amputee is able to mimic natural movement and also allow the
individual to feel exactly what is being held in the palm of prosthetic arm. In the currently
commercialized prosthetic arm due the lack of feedback, back to the brain there is an
increased strain on the eyes to ensure whether the right amount of pressure exerted on a
particular object or whether the object is still in grasp therefore this advancement is able to
reduce the strain posed on vision (Clement R.G.E. et al, 2011).
Our objective for this research is for the development and commercialisation of this new
prosthetic arm in Malaysia. In an attempt to disclose Malaysia as a forward-moving and
global science hub which closely relates to the National Biotechnology policy phase three
which states to Strengthen innovations and technology licensing and Promote global
Malaysian companies(Biotechnology for Wealth Creation and Social Well-Being, 2005).
This will therefore boost the economy of Malaysia by bringing in international investors
which will then open up new job opportunities for the local workforce in Malaysia.

Research and commercialisation on this product will definitely be a successful and beneficial
factor to the community and the economy of Malaysia. So, your support in this research in
terms of funding this research as it is still on-going will be highly welcomed and appreciated.
For which the funds will be used to pay for the shared facilities and services offered by
DARPA, hiring of professionals (that can handle the technical aspects) and also for the
purchase of the expensive raw materials that is required.
In addition, we would also like to in the near future form a partnership with the hospitals and
therapy rehabilitation centres in Malaysia and all around Asia to evaluate and also
commercialize this research product. We would also appreciate your support here.
Thank you for your time, dedication and public services.

Sincerely,
Joycie Joseph,
Mobile number: +014 922 1235
E-mail address: joycie_DARPA@gmail.com