The MyGenom launching ceremony was held on 29th August 2024 at the Auditorium Perdana, National Institutes of Health (NIH). The MyGenom project is a joint venture between two ministries, namely the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI) and the Ministry of Health Malaysia (KKM). This project represents a significant shift in the development of science and technology, particularly in population genomics.
The ceremony opened with a short video explanation of what a genome is and its importance to the Malaysian health industry. Two lectures were given by Encik Yusuf Muhammad Noor, Head of Advanced Genomics and Bioinformatics at the Malaysia Genome & Vaccine Institute, National Institutes of Biotechnology Malaysia (MGVI-NIBM), and YBrs. Dr. Adiratna Mat Ripen, Head of Cancer Research Centre, Institute for Medical Research, National Institutes of Health (IMR, NIH). They spoke on ‘MyGenom: Decoding the Malaysian Genome’ and ‘Personalised Medicine for Malaysia: The Potential of the MyGenom Project’ respectively.
MyGenom has three main objectives: to sequence the genomes of Malaysians, to produce a 'reference genome' for Malaysia, and to characterise the genetic variation of Malaysians. Through the sequencing and analysis of the Malaysian genome, the characterisation of genetic variation within the country’s diverse ethnicities and races can be effectively identified. This information is crucial for the future implementation of precision medicine in Malaysia.
The MyGenom project will be implemented in phases and will be led by researchers from MGVI-NIBM, MOSTI, in collaboration with IMR, NIH, KKM. MGVI-NIBM will conduct the genome sequencing process, while IMR, NIH, KKM will carry out the sampling process.
The MyGenom project was launched by the Honourable Minister of Health, YB Datuk Seri Dr. Haji Dzulkefly Ahmad, and the Honourable Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, YB Tuan Chang Lih Kang. They spoke about the importance of this project and the impacts of this initiative.
“The MyGenom project is a vital initiative for Malaysians, as it establishes a baseline of normal genetic variation through the sequencing of healthy genomes. This foundation is crucial for accurately identifying genetic variations that may have the potential to cause disease,” said YB Datuk Seri Dr. Haji Dzulkefly Ahmad.
Most human genomic studies have focused on European, American, or East Asian populations. On a global scale, there is a significant lack of genome data from various ethnic groups in Southeast Asian countries, particularly Malaysia. The genetic makeup of Malaysians may differ from that of people in other countries, making this information essential for precision medicine. By tailoring treatments to a country's unique genetic profile, we can significantly enhance their effectiveness. This highlights the importance of Malaysia having comprehensive genome data for its population.
The Ministry of Health (MOH) Malaysia has been tasked with implementing the MyGenom Project, which aims to collect 3,500 samples in its first phase. To achieve the project target, the MyGenom KKM project team will employ three sample collection strategies: (1) Continuous collection at seven blood donation centres in selected hospitals nationwide; (2) Periodic sampling at three blood donation centres in selected hospitals; and (3) Targeted sampling within specific communities, such as at the NIH. This sampling effort will be ongoing until 2025.
The MyGenom Project will help better understand how genetic variations among different ethnic groups in Malaysia relate to health, disease, and treatment response. By identifying disease risks based on genetic data, we can take proactive steps to prevent diseases tailored to specific populations, plan more precise treatments that match an individual’s genetic profile, improve treatment effectiveness, and ultimately reduce the country's long-term healthcare burden.
Additionally, the MyGenom database will serve as a centralised repository for genome data, enabling systematic access and sharing among researchers, medical practitioners, and other stakeholders for analysis, research, diagnostics, and clinical applications.
Overall, the MyGenom Project will have a major impact on the health and well-being of Malaysians by establishing genetic baselines for Malaysia, improving diagnostic accuracy and precision medicine, guiding public health strategies, and fostering research and innovation in healthcare, thus strengthening Malaysia's health system.
This content is provided by Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI).
The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of Malaysiakini.
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