Hematogenix, a global leader in integrated laboratory services, and Novotech, Australia’s largest independent contract research organization (CRO) have both signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Clinical Research Malaysia (CRM) to establish strategic partnerships in clinical research.
The inking of this MoU with Hematogenix will have the potential to set Malaysia apart from its Asia counterparts as Hematogenix intends to invest in setting up its central laboratory services (that focuses on cancer related research and clinical trials) in this country.
Hematogenix is only one of a handful of providers of such services in the USA and a leader in immune-oncology testing for drug development.
The establishment of their central laboratory services will be the first of such kind in the Asia region and is anticipated to be the largest globally in due time, surpassing the one in Chicago.
Through its Asia operations, Malaysia can expect to attract more global clinical trials into the country, upscale the Malaysian medical talents and bring in more investments into the nation’s economy.
The MoU with Novotech formally consolidates their existing working relationship with CRM.
This MoU spells out support in the areas of clinical trial promotion, business development, networking opportunities, clinical trial operations, training as well as in feasibility assessments.
With the current Malaysian Economic Transformation Program (ETP) that targets clinical research as one of its main drivers of economic growth, Malaysia has accelerated its efforts to reach out to foreign players in the clinical research field through CRM.
Novotech Executive Director for Asia Operations Dr. Yooni Kim said, “Novotech is strongly focused on Asia-Pacific which is regarded as one of the most attractive regions for clinical trials.
“The government’s commitment along with CRM’s continuous efforts to develop the Malaysian clinical research industry contribute to increase Malaysia’s attractiveness as a clinical trial destination.”
The MoU was signed by the CEO of CRM, Dr. Akhmal Yusof, President and CEO of Hematogenix, Dr. Hytham Al-Masri and Executive Director of Asia Operations, Novotech Dr. Yooni Kim.
The signing of the MoU was witnessed by the Director General of Health, Datuk Dr. Noor Hisham Abdullah.
“The Ministry of Health remains committed in building a thriving clinical research ecosystem in the country to support the needs of medical professionals, industry players as well as clinical trial sites, and we look forward to a fruitful and mutually beneficial partnership that will open up new exciting areas for cooperation in clinical research.” said Datuk Dr. Noor Hisham.
Source: biospectrumasia.com