Malaysian Genomics widens accessibility of genetic screening tests to Indonesia

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysian Genomics Resources Centre Bhd is making its genetic screening tests available in Indonesia through a partnership with medical and pharmaceutical distributor Medifirst Sdn Bhd (Medifirst).

With Medifirst’s experience in the distribution of medical and pharmaceutical products in Indonesia and Malaysia, the partnership will see Medifirst offer Malaysian Genomics’ genetic screening tests in Indonesia through its extensive network of primary care physicians and specialists in hospitals and medical centres, among others.

“We will work closely with Medifirst to ensure the delivery of our genetic screening tests through the proper professional healthcare channels across Indonesia. By identifying possible health risks from the genetic screening results, patients can plan with their doctor on ways to mitigate the risk of diseases occurring using available prevention, monitoring and treatment options,” said Malaysian Genomics chief executive officer Sasha Nordin, in a press statement.

Malaysian Genomics began the development of genetic screening tests for doctors in 2012 and has built the capacity to provide genetic insights into hundreds of diseases and traits that generate actionable information and new knowledge in personalised, preventive healthcare.

The company continues to develop new genetic tests regularly.

“Indonesia has over 2,000 hospitals and 9,000 community and GP clinics, most of which are privately owned,” said Medifirst director Datuk Yap Kon Min.

“We already have over 100 doctors waiting to be able to use Malaysian Genomics’ genetic screening tests to help patients make better informed decisions to safeguard their health,” he added.

Malaysian Genomics’ genetic screening tests blend innovative technologies with cuttingedge genomics knowledge to identify and assess known genetic markers that have been associated with health risks, which include genetic risks associated with susceptibility and severity to Covid-19 infection, cancer, cardiovascular diseases, developmental disorders in children, and even adverse reactions towards prescription medications.

In addition, genetic screening can also identify traits that may affect the health, wellness and fitness of individuals.

A pioneer in genome sequencing and analysis, Malaysian Genomics recently completed its new specialised cell processing laboratory and molecular biology laboratory, and diversified into biopharmaceutical and healthcare services, including the provision of Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-cell (CAR T-cell) immunotherapy for cancers.