08 @ HalalXtra September-October . 2023
08 @ HalalXtra September-October . 2023
TECHNOLOGY
The vanguard of halal pharmaceuticals
Duopharma Biotech solidifies its position in the halal pharma industry by spearheading initiatives through quality leadership
BY DANIAL FAUZI
AS ONE of the leading pharmaceutical companies in Malaysia , Duopharma Biotech Berhad has been at the forefront of the research and development of halal pharmaceuticals for the Muslim market , upholding halal standards acceptable to Muslims while also adhering to industry standards in the production of medicine and pharmaceuticals .
It is by no means an exaggeration , as Duopharma Biotech has received numerous awards and milestones over a decade . One of their most recent milestones was receiving the halal certification from the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia ( JAKIM ) for their oncology product for cancer treatment in December 2022 .
Speaking of cancer treatment , Duopharma Biotech has also collaborated with international organisations , such as US-based women ’ s health innovator company UE LifeSciences Inc , which sets to commercialise and scale breast screening medical devices in Malaysia , marking an innovative breakthrough for accessible lesion detection for women .
Listed on the main board of Bursa Malaysia , Duopharma Biotech played a pivotal role in not only the research and development of halal pharmaceuticals but also engaged in an active role in the entire halal pharmaceuticals , from sourcing the raw materials from halal sources , all the way to its manufacturing processes , ensuring that products that reach customers and patients are certified halal .
Duopharma Biotech has shown no signs of slowing down , aiming to strengthen further its position as market leader in the pharmaceutical industry .
Duopharma Biotech ' s halal initiative is in line with their ESG commitment , where one of their Key Focus Areas is Access to Medicine . They are making continuous efforts to provide consumers and patients
It is a combination of rising operation costs from all our sites including the increase in minimum wages . We will always provide the best for our employees . However , the increase in minimum wage has a direct impact on the cost of goods , and as such , this will have to be transferred to consumers . The increase in these costs has taken a toll on our finances ."
- Tan Sri Siti Sa ' diah with access to much-needed medicines and therapies .
The halal certification gives consumers the assurance that products are clean , hygienic , environmentallyfriendly , and have been produced respecting animal welfare . By offering halal products , moreover , Duopharma Biotech is respecting the rights of Muslims to consume healthcare products in accordance with their religious principles .
In a recent interview with @ Halal , Duopharma Biotech Chairman Tan Sri Siti Sa ’ diah Sh Bakir expressed her optimism and enthusiasm as overseer to Malaysia ’ s number one pharmaceutical company by value and volume .
“ When I joined Duopharma Biotech , the company was already public-listed on the main board of Bursa Malaysia ,” expressed Sa ’ diah .
“ However , it is still a growing company brimming with massive potential , and together with the other board members , we strategized and gave directions for the company to take .”
As a vanguard for the halal pharmaceutical industry , Duopharma Biotech ’ s successes stems from the leadership the Chairman herself gives . Being in the healthcare industry for many years , the industry veteran led her cohorts to the forefront of halal pharmaceuticals and sustainability .
STRENGTH IN LEADERSHIP
The best leaders often lift those under them up and empower them to do their best in whatever job they do , regardless of their level or position within the company .
“ Working in the chairman position for so long within Duopharma Biotech and the previous companies I worked for , I believe that leadership empowers people ,” said Siti Sa ’ diah when asked about her thoughts on leadership .
“ Leadership means that a degree of understanding , communication and empathy is involved . One must possess these aspects to become an acceptable leader because it is important for your fellow board members and staff to trust you and each other .”
Trust and integrity are essential in any company , regardless of industry . Duopharma Biotech had set up its methods of maintaining the trust and integrity of its staff at all levels within the company .
Siti Sa ’ diah explained that for Duopharma Biotech board members , there will be a board assessment whereby each board member assesses their fellow members of their work and ethics throughout their time within