CEO Insights Magazine

The healthcare sector is experiencing transformative advancements, but effectively disseminating knowledge is crucial to translating this progress into patient success. Rather than engaging in cut-throat competition, democratising technology ensures broader patient benefits. This philosophy inspired Zen KOH, Co-Founder and CEO of MotusAcademy, to cultivate an ecosystem that prioritises sharing knowledge and technology over market dominance. He founded MotusAcademy, a Zurich-based association dedicated to providing continuing education and key insights into robotics and advanced technologies applied to healthcare, focusing on rehabilitation, therapy, and functional independence.

Zen brings over 20 years of experience in the healthcare industry, including his former roles as Co-Founder, Deputy Group CEO, and Board Member of Shanghai Fourier Intelligence, a company specialising in exoskeleton robotic products and services for rehabilitation, and Managing Director of Zurich Hocoma, a Swiss advanced rehabilitation robotics company now listed in the US. Below is an excerpt from our exclusive interview with Zen, where he shares his insights and experiences in driving the future of healthcare technology.

You have more than two decades of professional experience. How has been the journey so far?

Embarking on my professional journey in 2000 as a robotics researcher at Nanyang Technological University, I began by working on the development of an underactuated underwater robotic vehicle (URV). In 2002, my quest for innovation led me to the National University of Singapore, where I spearheaded the creation of Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems, including a life-enhancing fall detection system for the elderly.

My curiosity, passion, and dedication to rehabilitation technology flourished through the founding of startups in Singapore, Switzerland, and China. This journey culminated in the establishment of MotusAcademy in 2022, a non-profit organisation based in Zurich that quickly expanded to Singapore. MotusAcademy is my brainchild, created to foster education and collaboration in the healthcare industry.

Today, MotusAcademy's influence continues to grow, with plans to establish hubs across four continents. My driving force remains the same: a steadfast commitment to enhancing lives with cutting-edge rehabilitation technologies and nurturing global partnerships that elevate care standards worldwide.

As an alumnus from the National University of Singapore (NUS), could you recall some of your most memorable academic experiences and their influence on your leadership growth?

My academic and personal growth at the National University of Singapore (NUS) was profoundly influenced by collaborative research projects, mentorship, real-world applications, networking opportunities, and overcoming challenges. These experiences honed my leadership skills, instilling in me the value of teamwork, the importance of mentorship, the societal impact of technology, the power of professional networks, and the necessity of strategic problem-solving. Collectively, these elements shaped my leadership approach, equipping me with the expertise and mindset to excel in the field of rehabilitation technology.

In essence, my academic experiences at NUS were instrumental in shaping my leadership style. They provided me with the technical knowledge, collaborative spirit, and strategic thinking essential for effective leadership in the dynamic field of rehabilitation technology. 

The inspiration behind founding MotusAcademy stemmed from my over two decades of experience in the rehabilitation technology industry. Throughout my career, I have witnessed numerous advancements transforming patient care. However, I realised that the true potential of these innovations could only be unlocked through widespread knowledge sharing among healthcare professionals.

Today, MotusAcademy is at the forefront of revolutionising healthcare through knowledge sharing and collaboration. Our vision goes well beyond competition, focusing on creating a shared ecosystem for technology and expertise. We are dedicated to building a comprehensive platform for information exchange, investing extensive efforts, including my personal engagements with global industry experts and rehabilitation practitioners.

Our Discovery Program also exemplifies an approach that provides university students with practical experiences with the latest technologies. For instance, I recently spoke at a symposium in Phoenix and participated in a robotics workshop in Pondicherry, reflecting our commitment to hands-on learning. The response was extremely satisfying. Our goal is to establish a worldwide network of professionals proficient in cutting-edge rehabilitation technologies, ensuring equitable access to innovative solutions and propelling the healthcare industry forward for the betterment of patients worldwide. This mission drives the strategic expansion of MotusAcademy, aiming to make a lasting impact on healthcare standards worldwide.

What is the kind of direction you provide to enable engagement among rehabilitation care stakeholders to advance the neuroreha-bilitation field?

MotusAcademy's holistic strategy to enhance engagement in the healthcare sector encompasses interdisciplinary education, digital outreach, experiential learning, networking, research support, and advocacy. We emphasise interdisciplinary education and collaborative learning to foster innovation in neurorehabilitation, blending engineers' technical skills with clinicians' insights. Our digital platforms, including an online portal and a specialised journal, provide widespread access to the latest research and developments.

On the other hand, our Discovery Program conducts hands-on workshops in partnership with educational institutions to promote the practical application of theoretical knowledge. Networking events and forums encourage collaboration among professionals, aiding in developing innovative solutions. We actively support R&D in neurorehabilitation, providing funding and collaborating with academia to ensure the continuous evolution of new technologies and methods.

Our advocacy for neurorehabilitation's significance is democratised through public campaigns and partnerships, aiming to garner support and recognition for the field. These multifaceted strategies are designed to advance neurorehabilitation by fostering a culture of continuous learning, innovation, and knowledge sharing among all stakeholders.

What are the major challenges you have identified in improving the accessibility and affordability of rehabilitation services in developing countries? What are the solutions that you propose?

The global demand for rehabilitation is rising, but developing countries face significant challenges in meeting this need. These include limited access to services, particularly in rural areas, due to a shortage of professionals and facilities. The cultural stigma around disabilities often leads to delayed or avoided treatment. Lack of infrastructure and resources, along with outdated equipment, obstruct the delivery of quality care. On the other hand, the field of rehabilitation research and education itself is underdeveloped, lacking investment, innovation, and collaboration. Lastly, adopting advanced technologies is slow due to high costs, low awareness, and insufficient training, leaving state-of-the-art devices like robotic exoskeletons largely inaccessible to those in need.

As a technopreneur and leader in rehabilitation, I am dedicated to enhancing the accessibility and affordability of rehabilitation services in developing countries through a comprehensive strategy. This involves collaborative industry efforts to unite technologists, healthcare providers, policymakers, and educators. With a particular focus on Asia Pacific, I am committed to improving the availability and adoption of rehabilitation technologies in the region.

Engagement with government initiatives is key, as seen in Japan and Singapore's active promotion of robotic rehabilitation. My role includes advocating for support and educating healthcare providers on adopting robotic and AI-driven neurorehabilitation methods. We aim to create affordable and sustainable rehabilitation devices through continuous research and development.

To boost the adoption of advanced technologies, we will initiate training programs for healthcare providers & industry partners, explore subsidy models, and develop financing solutions to make these technologies more affordable. Additionally, my work with MotusAcademy involves fostering education and training through curriculum development, scholarship programs, and continuing education opportunities for practitioners.

Building sustainable partnerships with international organisations, NGOs, and the private sector is crucial for implementing these initiatives effectively. Our goal is to create a sustainable ecosystem that makes advanced rehabilitation technologies and practices globally accessible, leading to improved outcomes and quality of life for those with disabilities and mobility impairments.

Your leadership is crucial in achieving these goals. How would you define your leadership?

My leadership is characterised by a steadfast commitment to collaboration, innovation, and resilience. Central to my approach is the principle of collaborative leadership, where fostering teamwork is essential for driving innovation and developing practical solutions. By promoting interdisciplinary coordination, I ensure that our outputs are not only technically sound but also aligned with patients' needs and preferences.

Open communication and empowering team members are pivotal aspects of my leadership style. I actively support the professional development of my team, encouraging innovative thinking and providing opportunities for growth and learning. This approach ensures that each team member feels valued and motivated to contribute their best efforts.

Furthermore, I maintain a patient-centred approach in all our initiatives, emphasising ethical considerations and integrity. By prioritising patients' well-being and needs, we can develop solutions that genuinely enhance their quality of life. My leadership is thus defined by a balance of technical excellence, ethical responsibility, and a deep commitment to improving patient outcomes.

Zen Koh, Co-Founder & CEO, Motus Academy With over two decades of experience in the healthcare industry, Zen Koh has made significant strides in advancing medical technology and rehabilitation services. As a visionary leader, he has held prominent positions such as Co-Founder, Deputy Group CEO, and Board Member of Shanghai Fourier Intelligence, a Chinese company renowned for its exoskeleton robotic products and rehabilitation services. Additionally, Zen has served as Managing Director of Zurich Hocoma, a Swiss leader in trailblazing advanced rehabilitation robotics, now listed in the US. Zen's tenure at both Shanghai Fourier Intelligence and Zurich Hocoma has been marked by groundbreaking innovations and the establishment of new standards in rehabilitative robotics. His deep expertise and forward-thinking approach have left an indelible mark on the global healthcare technology landscape.