KUALA LUMPUR: Sarawak has taken the lead in Malaysia for conducting first-in-human clinical trials, particularly in the field of oncology, with Sarawak General Hospital (SGH) emerging as a key research hub.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian said the state had successfully carried out eight first-in-human trials, placing it at the forefront of early-stage cancer drug development in the country.
“Before last year, there had never been a first-in-human trial done in Malaysia. People didn’t trust us, or we were not up to expectations.
“Since last year, five such trials were conducted in Malaysia, with four at SGH. This year, another four are ongoing,” he said during the 5th ASEAN International Oncology Integrative Medicine Session in Kuala Lumpur on Tuesday (Aug 5).
Additionally, Dr. Sim said that out of the 25 oncology drugs recently developed and brought to market globally, eight had been trialled in Sarawak.
First-in-human trials are a critical part of medical research, involving the initial testing of new drugs on human participants.
These trials play a crucial role in advancing treatment, especially for life-threatening diseases such as cancer.
Dr Sim said Sarawak’s involvement in the trials had elevated its reputation internationally, proving that local capabilities could match global research standards.
“This shows that we are no longer just seen as a third-world country. Without first-in-human trials, there would be no new drug discoveries for cancer,” he said.
On another note, Dr. Sim stated that Sarawak has conducted a total of 155 clinical trials, making it one of the leading contributors among Malaysia’s 267 recognised trial sites.
“These sites are governed by stringent international protocols. You can’t just decide to be a first-in-human site — you have to be audited and approved by global pharmaceutical companies,” he said, noting that only about 30 such trial centres worldwide meet these standards.
Despite the accomplishments, Dr Sim voiced concern over the state of facilities at SGH’s cancer department, describing them as inadequate and substandard.
“In Sarawak, I always say, you go to the cancer department not sick but become sick, because the facilities are not ideal,” he said.
He said the federal government had cited financial constraints as a reason for delays in upgrading the facilities, prompting the Sarawak government to take proactive steps.
“The state government has decided to inject RM1 billion first. If that’s not enough, let us know. When the federal government has funds, they can reimburse us,” he said.
“Are we supposed to wait until there’s money? By then, people would have died. We care more about saving lives first,” he added.
