MALAYSIA RECORDS 267 SPONSORED CLINICAL RESEARCH IN 2024

PUTRAJAYA, April 21 (Bernama) -- Malaysia recorded a total of 267 sponsored clinical research last year, according to the Clinical Research Malaysia (CRM) Annual Report 2024 that was launched by Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad today.

The achievement pushes the total number of sponsored clinical research studies conducted in Malaysia to over 2,500 since CRM’s establishment in 2012.

CRM, in a statement today, said Malaysia also gained significant momentum in early phase research, with five First-in-Human (FIH) studies awarded, the highest number in a single year since the launch of CRM’s Phase 1 Realisation Project in 2016.

“These early-phase studies were conducted at the Sarawak General Hospital, an FIH-accredited site by the National Pharmaceutical Regulatory Agency (NPRA).

“These achievements reflect Malaysia’s growing capabilities and proven track record in delivering global clinical trials with speed, quality and reliability,” CRM said.

In line with CRM's Vision 2033 to establish Malaysia as the preferred hub for clinical research in the region, CRM has been spearheading strategic missions focused on talent development and ecosystem growth.

One of its flagship initiatives, the CRM Centre of Excellence (CoE), has produced 30 graduate trainees equipped with foundational training in clinical research.

Additionally, CRM, in partnership with the Health Ministry, is currently leading an ASEAN-level initiative to expand industry-sponsored clinical trials across Southeast Asia, a strategic move aimed at positioning the region as a competitive and collaborative destination for global research investment.

“Much of this agenda will also be highlighted and discussed during the CRM Trial Connect 2025, an annual international conference which will gather at least 1,000 clinical research stakeholders in Kuala Lumpur in May,” it added.

-- BERNAMA