AGTC Genomics puts cutting-edge genomics in everyones’ hands

If you’ve bought furniture from IKEA, I’m sure you will know how vital the manuals are for any of us to assemble them (unless you’re a pro). Genome sequencing also acts as a ‘manual’, except it helps us understand a living creature by dismantling the DNA rather than assembling them.

This technology allows us to ascertain the complete structure of the DNA and identify rare diseases that could not be determined in the past. It also helps scientists and medical practitioners save time when performing various types of diagnosis and provides patients with information on genetic variants that can lead to diseases or increase the risks of disease development even in asymptomatic people.

Genome sequencing has stamped its importance in the wake of the Covid-19 health crisis. New variants are coming all the time so genomic data has guided countries to make quick informed decisions since the onset of the pandemic. It has also played a critical role for public health response beyond when to go into lockdown to helping countries prepare for potential surges and ensuring that medical supplies are sufficient to cater to increase in case loads.

To date, genome sequencing technology has expanded worldwide and in Malaysia, we have AGTC Genomics, the first ever company to set up genome sequencing facilities in the country. This healthtech startup focuses on making precision medicine and genomic sequencing much more affordable in Malaysia whilst offering genomics solutions to their customers, including health care companies, research institutes, and the government.

On tonight’s Health and Wellness Show, we have Dr Chee-Onn Leong, the CEO of AGTC Genomics, to provide our listeners with extensive knowledge on genome sequencing technology and the importance of public-private partnerships to move the needle for adoption of this technology in Malaysia. He will also touch on ways in which the country can plug the talent gap to enable it to fully embark on the genome race.

During the conversation, Dr Chee also spoke about:

The collaboration between the company and the Malaysian government.
Malaysia’s genome sequencing technology is compared to other countries in the region.
Recruiting talents and providing training to local institutions.
The company’s future plans for the next few years.