Lukanisman: MyGenom Program Expands to Sarawak Collecting a Thousand Samples to Build National Gene Database

(Miri, 21st) The Deputy Minister of Health, Dato' Lukanisman Awang Sauni, disclosed that the MyGenom project, which started its first phase in West Malaysia last year and successfully recruited 2000 participants, has now extended to Sarawak. Sample collection has commenced in Miri, Bintulu, Sibu, major hospitals, and the Long Lama area, with a target of collecting at least 1000 samples.

He made this statement at a press conference today after officiating the "MyGenom Program Sarawak Region Launch" in Miri. Attendees included the Deputy Director of the Ministry of Health (Research and Technology Support), Dato’ Noor Fadziliza, and the CEO of the Malaysian National Institute of Biotechnology (NIBM), Dato’ Prof. Datuk Wira Dr. Raha Abdul Rahim.

He stated that the program is a significant government initiative aimed at establishing a national reference genome database by collecting genetic samples from the nation’s people to promote the development of precision medicine.

Lukanisman pointed out that the plan is a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation (MOSTI) and involves blood sample collection, genome analysis, and is a "nationwide data-driven" health medical genome research project.

He said that through this program, they aim to better understand the genetic characteristics of various ethnic groups across the country, establish more targeted treatment plans for precision medicine, and assist the government in formulating forward-looking public health policies.

"Sarawak's inclusion in the program is because we want to expand the diversity of the gene sample pool, especially with East Malaysia's rich ethnic structure and unique genetic background, which can provide a more complete gene map for the nation."

He emphasized that the ethnic diversity of Sarawak would provide valuable data for genomic research, and the sample collection process would pay special attention to indigenous and minority groups to ensure their representation in medical research.

Lukanisman also revealed that the plan is now moving towards its second phase, and he has recommended that the National Economic Ministry and the Ministry of Finance allocate more budget to support larger-scale sample collection and research work.

"We anticipate the first phase will analyze the complete genomes of 10,000 Malaysians and compare the data with other countries to identify high-risk diseases, such as nasopharyngeal carcinoma, which is prevalent among the Sarawak ethnic groups."

He said the MyGenom plan not only holds long-term significance for the national healthcare system but also has the potential to become a platform for developing high-skilled talent, especially in genomics and biotechnology, further driving the establishment of a developing biotechnology hub in Sarawak.

Lukanisman added that the plan is underway with sample collection across hospitals in Sarawak, and if more funding is available in the future, they may also extend recruitment and research coverage to remote rural areas, focusing on specific ethnic groups.

When asked by the media about project funding, he responded that due to technological and industrial interests, the specific amount could not be disclosed at present but emphasized that this is a significant national-level scientific research project with substantial investment, intended to be included in the 13th Malaysia Plan for more stable financial support.

He also disclosed that by 2024, 500 genom samples had completed sequencing, with some results already in the analysis stage, and the project will continue to advance the translation of research outcomes into policy applications in the coming years.

He concluded: "This is not only a scientific research project but a crucial step in building a sustainable, technology-driven, and inclusive public health system for future generations."