KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysian Genomics Resource Centre Bhd (MGRC) has established a strategic cooperation with SIRIM Bhd to explore the commercialisation of joint research and development (R&D) projects in the medical and biotechnology fields.
Under the strategic cooperation, both parties will evaluate the potential commercial value of various genomics-driven biotechnology R&D projects.
These include developing biofuels and biopharmaceuticals, companion diagnostic tests for cancer treatment, and bioactive cosmeceuticals.
MGRC chief executive officer Sasha Nordin said the company and SIRIM have complementary experiences, resources, and technology assets.
"Teams from both organisations have met to explore their research and develop interests in precision medicine, food security, and products for the consumer market.
"This strategic collaboration will pave the way for individual agreements specific to projects for which commercial opportunities have been identified," he said in a statement today.
SIRIM, a wholly-owned entity by the government, is focused on R&D, standardisation and quality.
The organisation acts as a catalyst for industrial development through technology and standardisation programmes.
SIRIM president and group chief executive officer Datuk Indera Dr Ahmad Sabirin Arshad said the agency looks forward to working closely with MGRC on R&D projects that can benefit the country and domestic industries.
"This strategic collaboration will expedite the relevant processes to ensure that both parties can explore the commercial viability of projects before commencing research, development and commercialisation," he said.
The parties of this two-year strategic collaboration will also jointly source suitable private and public institutional partners to fund and commercialise these projects.