KUCHING: The official launch of the Sarawak Society for Cell and Gene Therapy Research (SSCTR) paves the way for Sarawak’s emergence in the global biomedical innovation landscape.
Founded by Dr Samuel Ting Chuo Yew, a prominent leader in pharmaceutical science and health policy, SSCTR seeks to drive awareness, collaboration and policy development in the rapidly advancing field of cell and gene therapy (CGT).
“Cell and gene therapy is revolutionising modern medicine, from offering cures for previously untreatable genetic disorders to enabling personalised regenerative therapies.
“Yet, in East Malaysia, access to reliable information, local expertise, and institutional coordination in CGT remains limited.
“SSCTR was created to change that,” said Dr Ting in a statement issued by SSCTR today.
The society is guided by a diverse and multidisciplinary council comprising pharmacists, clinicians, biotechnologists, educationists and bioprocessing engineers.
He added that it’s a reflection of the collaborative nature required to bring CGT from benchside to bedside.
“CGT is not the work of a single profession and 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, SSCTR provides access to the latest developments in CGT, including technical innovations and regulatory pathways.
“It aims to build national and international collaborations with societies such as the International Society for Cell & Gene Therapy (ISCT), the American Society of Gene & Cell Therapy (ASGCT), and the Malaysia Association for Cell and Gene Therapy (MACGT).
“It also promotes interdisciplinary teamwork among molecular scientists, immunologists, stem cell researchers, GMP specialists, clinical trialists, pharmacists, nurses and regulatory experts,” he said.
For the general public, the society works to raise awareness about the potential and limitations of CGT and serves as a trusted referral point for assessing the legitimacy of CGT-related companies and services.
“For government and policymakers, SSCTR provides expert insight to support national and state-level CGT regulatory and policy development and acts as an intermediary body to facilitate communication and advocacy between government agencies, the healthcare sector and the public.
“SSCTR is now open for membership and welcomes researchers, clinicians, students and public stakeholders who share a commitment to the ethical, evidence-based advancement of cell and gene therapy,” he said.
Anyone interested in learning more or joining the society is encouraged to visit https://www.sarawaksctr.com.
