GSK In Pact With Health Ministry To Supply Vaccines

NILAI, Sept 4 (Bernama) -- The Health Ministry Monday announced that GlaxoSmithKline Pharmaceuticals (GSK) will supply vaccines and technical support for the new National Institute of Natural Products, Vaccines and Biotechnology (9BIO) plant.
Health director-general Tan Sri Dr Mohd Ismail Merican expressed confidence in GSK's vast experience and strong track record in vaccines research and development.
"GSK was the most suitable partner in this venture as its vaccines are already in use by the ministry under our expanded programme of immunization," he said after the ground-breaking ceremony of the 9BIO plant by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi in Enstek near here today.
He added that GSK would partner the ministry in research and development (R&D) with special focus on tropical diseases such as malaria, Japanese Encephalitis (Nipah virus) and tuberculosis.
GSK is considered one of the leaders in pharmaceutical R&D with a combination of skills and resources that provide a platform for delivering strong growth in today's rapidly changing healthcare environment.
The company is also involved in R&D of vaccines and anti-virals.
Other major therapeutic areas include anti-infectives, central nervous system, respiratory and gastro-intestinal/metabolic.
In addition, GSK has a growing portfolio of oncology products.
GSK Malaysia-Singapore managing director Jorge Bartolome said it was a privilege to be given the opportunity to work in partnership with the ministry in realising its aspiration to become a supplier of vaccines for the Malaysian expanded programme of immunization as well as for member nations of the Organisation of Islamic Conference (OIC).
He said based on the agreement, GSK would supply vaccines needed for the Malaysian programme and play an active part in the installation of the project.
This will include technical assistance and counselling at different stages of the project.
"In addition to physical aid, GSK is also committed to providing additional support in form of expertise and experience from the GSK biological plant in Rixensart, Belgium," Bartolome said.
"We will also be involved in the development of human capital, including local training for staff, training on the GSK facilities, and ongoing workshops and seminars to ensure a pool of skilled and capable individuals for the new plant," he said.