Sarawak steps into global biomedical arena with launch of research society
Dr Samuel Ting Chuo Yew
KUCHING (June 14): The Sarawak Society for Cell and Gene Therapy Research (SSCTR) has been officially launched, marking a significant step forward in positioning Sarawak as a contributor to the global biomedical innovation landscape.
Founded by Dr Samuel Ting Chuo Yew, a leading figure in pharmaceutical science and health policy, the SSCTR aims to promote awareness, foster collaboration, and support policy development in the rapidly evolving field of cell and gene therapy (CGT).
'Cell and gene therapy is revolutionizing modern medicine, from offering cures for previously untreatable genetic disorders to enabling personalized regenerative therapies,' said Dr Ting in a statement.
'Yet, in East Malaysia, access to reliable information, local expertise, and institutional coordination in CGT remains limited. SSCTR was created to change that,' he added.
The society is guided by a multidisciplinary council comprising pharmacists, clinicians, biotechnologists, educators, and bioprocessing engineers – reflecting the collaborative nature required to advance CGT from research to clinical application.
'Its success relies on coordinated efforts across basic science, clinical practice, manufacturing, regulation, and public engagement.
'That is why our society was founded with an interdisciplinary vision from day one,' he said.
For researchers and healthcare professionals, the SSCTR provides access to the latest developments in CGT, including technological advancements and regulatory frameworks.
It also facilitates national and international collaborations with key organisations such as the International Society for Cell and Gene Therapy (ISCT), the American Society of Gene and Cell Therapy (ASGCT), and the Malaysia Association for Cell and Gene Therapy (MACGT).
The society also promotes interdisciplinary teamwork among molecular scientists, immunologists, stem cell researchers, GMP specialists, clinical trialists, pharmacists, nurses, and regulatory experts.
For the general public, SSCTR aims to raise awareness about both the potential and limitations of CGT.
It also serves as a trusted point of reference for verifying the credibility of CGT-related services and companies.
For government agencies and policymakers, the society offers expert insights to support the development of national and state-level regulations.
It also acts as an intermediary, facilitating communication and advocacy between public authorities, the healthcare sector, and the wider community.
Membership is now open to researchers, clinicians, students, and members of the public who are committed to the ethical and evidence-based advancement of cell and gene therapy.
To learn more or to join the SSCTR, go to the website https://www.sarawaksctr.com.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Malaysian Reserve
a day ago
- Malaysian Reserve
Gene Solutions and Shenzhen USK Bioscience Forge Strategic Partnership to Establish Next-Generation Sequencing Laboratory in Southern China
SINGAPORE, June 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Gene Solutions, a leading multinational biotechnology company and Shenzhen USK Bioscience Co., Ltd. (USKBio), a prominent innovator in molecular diagnostics, have entered a strategic partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). The landmark agreement paves the way for the establishment of a state-of-the-art next generation sequencing (NGS) laboratory in southern China, advancing localized oncology diagnostics. The collaboration will leverage USKBio's existing infrastructure, and Gene Solutions' advanced next-generation AI & genomics capabilities to jointly establish a next-generation sequencing (NGS) laboratory. The lab will focus on accelerating access to early cancer detection and molecular residual disease (MRD) monitoring using AI-powered circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) technologies, tailored to address the unique clinical needs of southern China's healthcare landscape. USKBio brings extensive expertise in Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)-based In Vitro Diagnostics (IVD) and Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP)-certified production capabilities. Gene Solutions contributes its leadership in NGS-based oncology applications, highlighted by its groundbreaking SPOT-MAS test — Asia's first clinically validated multi-cancer early detection (MCED) assay, validated through a prospective study of 9,024 participants. Additionally, Gene Solutions recently published a real-world MRD study involving 623 patients across six cancer types—lung, colorectal, breast, gastric, liver, and ovarian—demonstrating the clinical utility of ctDNA for monitoring treatment response and assessing recurrence risk. This partnership will focus on localizing and validating these cutting-edge technologies for the Chinese market while fostering joint R&D and production of advanced IVD medical devices. This alliance represents a major step forward in delivering accessible, high-impact, personalized cancer diagnostics to a broader population in China. 'This partnership with USKBio allows us to move quickly in establishing a high-impact oncology hub in southern China,' said Dr. Nguyen Hoai Nghia, CEO and Co-founder at Gene Solutions. 'Together, we aim to bring early, accurate, and scalable cancer screening and diagnostics to more patients, ultimately improving cancer outcomes.' 'Gene Solutions and USKBio are highly complementary in their core technologies, regional markets, and business models.' said Dr. Yu Dehua, CEO at USKbio. 'This strategic collaboration will leverage both parties' strengths, creating strong synergies to deliver greater benefits to cancer patients across the Asia region.' The partnership also includes technology transfer, technical training, and joint commercialization efforts to ensure rapid deployment and widespread adoption of these advanced genomic tools. About Shenzhen USKBio Founded in August 2015, Shenzhen USKBio is a national high-tech biological enterprise established by leading Chinese and American scientists and entrepreneurs. Specializing in in vitro molecular diagnostics, USKBio integrates R&D, production, marketing, and medical testing services, with a robust presence in IVD reagents, diagnostic instruments, and testing services. Leveraging proprietary technologies such as Udx-PCR and Udx-MSP, the company offers innovative solutions for early cancer screening, precision diagnosis, and companion diagnostics. With over 36 authorized patents and collaborations across top hospitals and testing institutions in China, USKBio is a rising leader in the global molecular diagnostics industry, dedicated to advancing precision medicine. About Gene Solutions Gene Solutions is a leading multinational biotechnology company headquartered in Asia, pioneering the integration of advanced AI and circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) technologies to deliver innovative solutions across the cancer care continuum. Recognized for its proprietary research and CAP-accredited laboratories, the company combines multi-dimensional genomics with AI-driven analytics to transform oncology—from early detection to real-time treatment monitoring. With a strong regional presence and a commitment to empowering access to precision medicine, Gene Solutions is shaping the future of cancer diagnostics and personalized care across the Asia-Pacific. Explore more information at:
Borneo Post
a day ago
- Borneo Post
Sarawak steps into global biomedical arena with launch of research society
Dr Samuel Ting Chuo Yew KUCHING (June 14): The Sarawak Society for Cell and Gene Therapy Research (SSCTR) has been officially launched, marking a significant step forward in positioning Sarawak as a contributor to the global biomedical innovation landscape. Founded by Dr Samuel Ting Chuo Yew, a leading figure in pharmaceutical science and health policy, the SSCTR aims to promote awareness, foster collaboration, and support policy development in the rapidly evolving field of cell and gene therapy (CGT). 'Cell and gene therapy is revolutionizing modern medicine, from offering cures for previously untreatable genetic disorders to enabling personalized regenerative therapies,' said Dr Ting in a statement. 'Yet, in East Malaysia, access to reliable information, local expertise, and institutional coordination in CGT remains limited. SSCTR was created to change that,' he added. The society is guided by a multidisciplinary council comprising pharmacists, clinicians, biotechnologists, educators, and bioprocessing engineers – reflecting the collaborative nature required to advance CGT from research to clinical application. 'Its success relies on coordinated efforts across basic science, clinical practice, manufacturing, regulation, and public engagement. 'That is why our society was founded with an interdisciplinary vision from day one,' he said. For researchers and healthcare professionals, the SSCTR provides access to the latest developments in CGT, including technological advancements and regulatory frameworks. It also facilitates national and international collaborations with key organisations such as the International Society for Cell and Gene Therapy (ISCT), the American Society of Gene and Cell Therapy (ASGCT), and the Malaysia Association for Cell and Gene Therapy (MACGT). The society also promotes interdisciplinary teamwork among molecular scientists, immunologists, stem cell researchers, GMP specialists, clinical trialists, pharmacists, nurses, and regulatory experts. For the general public, SSCTR aims to raise awareness about both the potential and limitations of CGT. It also serves as a trusted point of reference for verifying the credibility of CGT-related services and companies. For government agencies and policymakers, the society offers expert insights to support the development of national and state-level regulations. It also acts as an intermediary, facilitating communication and advocacy between public authorities, the healthcare sector, and the wider community. Membership is now open to researchers, clinicians, students, and members of the public who are committed to the ethical and evidence-based advancement of cell and gene therapy. To learn more or to join the SSCTR, go to the website
Malaysian Reserve
2 days ago
- Malaysian Reserve
Billions in Deals Reshaping the Cell and Gene Therapy Industry, reports Kalorama Information
ARLINGTON, Va., June 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Kalorama Information, a leading publisher of life sciences market research, has released the highly anticipated third edition of its landmark report, Cell and Gene Therapy Market Deals: Investments, M&As, and Partnerships, 2021–2025. This comprehensive analysis offers an in-depth look at the financial ecosystem fueling the explosive growth of the cell and gene therapy (CGT) industry — a market defined by breakthrough innovation, global competition, and evolving funding landscapes. The report is released in two installments, with the first part available now, covering deals through Q4 2024. The second installment, included with purchase, will be released in Fall 2025 and cover activity through Q3 2025. 'Many categories of deals, such as collaborations, distribution/co-marketing, and manufacturing/supply chain, have shown a long-term pattern of growth,' said Justin Saeks, senior market analyst at Kalorama Information. 'And there's reason for optimism regarding continued investments. Cell and gene therapy-related companies have continued to receive huge amounts of investment.' Key Insights from the Report: Over 2,000 CGT-related deals analyzed, with quarterly trends tracked from Q1 2021 to Q4 2024 Despite a tighter funding environment, 2024 investment reached an estimated $39 billion, with a sharp Q4 uptick Top dealmakers include Astellas, Bristol Myers Squibb, Ginkgo Bioworks, Charles River, and Eli Lilly Deal types covered: VC/PE, IPO/SPAC, licensing, tech transfer, acquisitions, supply chain partnerships, and more Global perspective includes detailed breakdowns by region — North America, Europe, and APAC Why This Matters Now The CGT market is maturing fast, with fluctuating investment trends, growing deal diversity, and strategic partnerships becoming essential to survival. In 2023 and 2024, firms faced a contraction in available capital — from $73 billion in 2021 down to $35 billion in 2023 — yet collaborative and manufacturing partnerships have been on the rise. This suggests that dealmaking is evolving, not disappearing. Who Should Purchase and Read This Report This report is essential for: Biotech and pharma execs seeking M&A or licensing opportunities VC/PE investors tracking funding cycles and active biotech targets Strategic planners and BD professionals looking to benchmark activity Consultants, CROs, and CMOs aligning services with market needs Regulatory and policy advisors assessing funding shifts and regional dynamics Strategic Use Cases Identify high-activity players and ideal partners for collaboration or acquisition Benchmark funding rounds and valuations for startups or expanding companies Inform R&D focus by tracking which technologies (e.g., CRISPR, AAV) are attracting deals Support global expansion using regional deal patterns and emerging market trends Strengthen regulatory preparedness by understanding the impact of policy shifts on financing Companion Report Available This report pairs with Kalorama's Cell and Gene Therapy Market Dynamics by Disease Type: Development, Trends, and Forecasts, 2024–2030 (4th Edition) — offering disease-area breakdowns of the CGT landscape in oncology, neurology, musculoskeletal, and beyond. Get the Report Download or purchase the report here:Cell and Gene Therapy Market Deals: Investments, M&As, and Partnerships, 2021–2025 (3rd Edition) Explore the companion report:Cell and Gene Therapy Market Dynamics by Disease Type, 2024–2030 (4th Edition) About Kalorama InformationKalorama Information, part of Science and Medicine Group, is a trusted source of market research in the life sciences. With a focus on in vitro diagnostics, biotechnology, and medical devices, Kalorama reports are used by top healthcare companies, government agencies, and investment firms worldwide. For purchase or custom consultation, contact:Sheri DavieKalorama Information Sales For media inquiries please contact:Alisa AlvichMarketing
