Nor Fariza: MyGENOM Initiative Paves the Way for Malaysian Healthcare, Comprehensive Data Collection in Sarawak Region Launched

(MIRI, 21st) The Deputy Director-General of Health (Research & Technical Support) of the Malaysian Ministry of Health, Datuk Dr. Nor Fariza, pointed out that the "National Genome Research Data Collection Initiative (MyGENOM)" is not just a research project, but a long-term strategic investment aimed at propelling Malaysia towards more precise, safe, and personalized medical services.

Speaking at the "MyGENOM Sarawak Zone Launch Ceremony" this morning at Pullman Hotel in Miri, she stated that the launch of this initiative represents another key milestone for the Ministry of Health in enhancing the national healthcare system.

Establishing a Local Genome Database to Lay the Foundation for Precision Medicine for All

Nor Fariza emphasized that Malaysia is a country with diverse ethnicities, cultures, and genetic backgrounds; foreign genetic data might not be suitable for the local population.

"We need our own genomic data to design truly effective treatment plans that align with the genetic characteristics of Malaysians."

Therefore, MyGENOM is not just a research project. It is a systematic initiative aimed at reforming the national health system by being patient-centered and data-driven.

Ensuring Nationwide Participation and Focusing on Marginalized Communities

She stressed that MyGENOM pays special attention to the broad participation of all ethnic groups, especially those previously underrepresented in relevant research, such as the indigenous people of Sarawak, Sabah, and Orang Asli.

"Only by building a truly diverse and representative national genomic database can the research outcomes bring real change to the health of all citizens."

Six Major Hospitals in Sarawak to Participate in Collection, Comprehensive Coverage of Urban and Rural Areas

Nor Fariza revealed that the MyGENOM data collection work in the Sarawak zone has officially commenced in Miri for the year 2025, led by the Department of Transfusion Medicine and Clinical Research Centre (CRC) at Miri Hospital.

Subsequently, collection work will progress in Lawas Hospital, Sarawak General Hospital, Bintulu Hospital, Mukah Hospital, and Sibu Hospital, with the Transfusion Departments and CRCs of each hospital coordinating efforts, culminating in the Sarawak General Hospital to complete the Sarawak zone collection task.

Moreover, collection strategies will also extend to blood donation activities outside of hospitals, particularly reaching remote areas to engage a broader community and expand participation.

Appreciation for Collaboration Across Sarawak to Promote Inter-Ministry Research Cooperation

She highly commended the efforts of hospitals, health offices, blood banks, and various institutions in Sarawak for their coordination and promotion, and expressed gratitude to all medical personnel and research teams for their dedication, including research officers, on-site coordinators, medical laboratory technicians, research assistants, logistics, and administrative support groups.

Additionally, she particularly thanked the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI) and the National Institutes of Biotechnology Malaysia (NIBM) for their technical support and collaboration from the early stages of the MyGENOM initiative.

"The strategic collaboration between the Ministry of Health and MOSTI not only demonstrates the synergy between departments but also opens up a more sustainable future for the development of national medical technology."

Building a Diverse Genome Database Towards a Vision of National Health

She stated that through the launch in the Sarawak zone, they hope to lay a solid foundation for establishing a genome database that truly represents the country's diversity, making medical care more precise and tailored to each individual's physical characteristics and needs.

She emphasized that MyGENOM is an important step towards the vision of national health, hoping that the related cooperation continues to deepen, turning research outcomes into public welfare.