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MOH Workshop on Pharmacogenomics Research & Implementation

Pharmacogenomics is the scientific study of how a person’s genetic makeup affects their drug response. It combines pharmacology (the science of drugs) and genomics (the study of genes and their functions) to understand how genetic variations influence the effectiveness and safety of medications for each individual. Because people have genetic differences, the same drug can work well for one person but be ineffective or cause adverse reactions in another. Pharmacogenomics aims to use genetic information to predict who will benefit from a medication, who will not respond, and who is at risk for side effects. This helps healthcare providers prescribe the right drug at the right dose for each patient, moving away from the traditional “one-size-fits-all” approach to a more personalized treatment strategy.

The field involves analyzing genetic variants, such as single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), that affect drug metabolism, efficacy, and toxicity. Pharmacogenomics supports the development of tailored drugs and dosage recommendations to maximize therapeutic effects while minimizing adverse drug reactions. It is a key component of precision medicine, personalizing healthcare based on genes, environment, and lifestyle. Currently, pharmacogenomics is used in some areas like cancer treatment, HIV therapy, depression, and heart disease, and it is rapidly advancing with ongoing research and clinical trials to expand its applications.

We are proud to have successfully concluded the Workshop for Research & Implementation of Pharmacogenomics (PGx), held on 4–5 June 2026 at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), Malaysia. The workshop was a collaborative initiative by the Institute for Medical Research (IMR) and the Precision Medicine & Scientific Wellness Association (PMedS).

Our sincere thanks for the valuable work, contributions, and thoughtful discussions that shaped the event go to;

Datuk Dr. Nor Fariza Binti Ngah, Deputy Director-General of Health (Research & Technical Support), for her inspiring foreword and continued support
Dr. Ami Fazlin Binti Syed Mohamed, Director of IMR
Dr. Adiratna Mat Ripen, Head of the Cancer Research Centre (CaRC), IMR & Head of Precision Medicine Research Cluster, NIH
Professor Prof. Dr. Tan Geok Chin, PMedS President

Implementation of Pharmacogenomics

The pictures shown above were taken during the workshop. They introduce some vital topics discussed during the workshop, including the knowledge of pharmacogenomics towards public awareness. We are thankful to the committee members from NIH, IMR, GPD, and PMEDS who were able to attend the workshop, including taking part in the discussions.

Some photos took place in the NIH building, involving parties from the Precision Medicine & Scientific Wellness Association, the Institute for Medical Research (IMR), and Global Precision Diagnostics.

About Institute for Medical Research (IMR)

The Institute for Medical Research (IMR) is a leading biomedical research institution under Malaysia’s Ministry of Health. Established in 1900, IMR conducts research and provides specialised laboratory services to support disease prevention, diagnosis, public health, and the advancement of medical science in Malaysia.

About National Institutes of Health (NIH)

The National Institutes of Health (NIH), Malaysia, is the research arm of the Ministry of Health Malaysia, bringing together specialised institutes to advance health and medical research. NIH supports evidence-based healthcare, public health policy, research collaboration, and innovation to improve health outcomes in Malaysia.

About Precision Medicine & Scientific Wellness Association (PMedS)

The Precision Medicine & Scientific Wellness Association (PMedS) is a professional association dedicated to advancing precision medicine, scientific wellness, and personalised healthcare through education, research, collaboration, and knowledge sharing among healthcare professionals, scientists, and industry stakeholders.

About Precision Diagnostics

Precision Diagnostics is a precision medicine and genomic diagnostics organisation committed to translating advances in genomics into clinically meaningful healthcare solutions supported by clinical governance. Through its work in pharmacogenomics, precision oncology, genomic testing, clinical implementation, and international scientific collaboration, Precision Diagnostics aims to support safer, more personalised, and evidence-based patient care across Malaysia and the Asia-Pacific region.