The Health September 2023 | Page 23

Duopharma HAPI redefines the paradigm of cancer drug manufacturing on both a national and global scale

Halal Health

SEPTEMBER , 2023 | THE HEALTH

23

Facilities and operations in Duopharma HAPI , Glenmarie .

Revolutionary halal medical solutions

Duopharma HAPI redefines the paradigm of cancer drug manufacturing on both a national and global scale

AN INNOVATIVE step toward halal medical solutions is picking up steam in the heart of Glenmarie , Selangor . Duopharma Biotech Berhad ’ s subsidiary Duopharma HAPI ( Highly Active Potency Ingredient ) is recognised as an example of unshakable commitment and a pioneering spirit .

This cutting-edge facility , built in July 2019 , serves as Malaysia ’ s first manufacturing plant for cancer medications . It demonstrates the company ’ s unwavering dedication to promoting healthcare solutions both domestically and internationally .
Duopharma HAPI is at the forefront of its innovation as the healthcare industry evolves , revolutionising the production and distribution of cancer medications . The facility ’ s strategic location in Glenmarie , Selangor , positions it as a centre of excellence , combining cutting-edge technology with halal integrity to meet the diverse needs of patients worldwide .
With its establishment , Duopharma Biotech Berhad demonstrates its commitment to tackling the significant lack of readily available , reasonably priced cancer medicines in Malaysia and beyond .
CUTTING-EDGE FACILITY
Duopharma HAPI ’ s manufacturing facility embodies precision , innovation , and halal values . The facility produces a wide variety of cancer and cytotoxic medications while upholding the strictest international production , quality control , and safety standards .
The Malaysian National Pharmaceutical Regulatory Agency ( NPRA ) has awarded it the Good Manufacturing Practice ( GMP ) certification , underscoring its dedication to unwavering quality and patient welfare .
This accreditation demonstrates the facility ’ s strict adherence to international standards , essential for guaranteeing the efficacy and security of the pharmaceuticals supplied .
ENHANCING HALAL PHARMACEUTICALS
Duopharma HAPI , which has an annual manufacturing capacity of 8.8 million tablet units , is more than just a facility - it ’ s a ray of hope for both patients and medical professionals .
The facility specialises in developing a broad array of various oncology medications with clinical validation that address different cancer types . From breast cancer to lung cancer , colorectal cancer , cervical cancer , and blood cancer , these ground-breaking medications offer hope to those battling these diseases .
A flexible asset in the search for holistic healthcare solutions , the facility ’ s capabilities go beyond oncology and include creating medications that address hormonal imbalances , cardiovascular problems , central nervous system illnesses , and musculoskeletal conditions .
MILESTONES OF EXCELLENCE
The history of Duopharma HAPI is marked with accomplishments that push the limits of medical research and patient care .
Duopharma Biotech Group Managing Director Leonard Ariff Abdul Shatar remarked : “ In 2019 , the facility proudly produced Letrozole , a pioneering cancer molecule . This achievement led to its commercialisation under the brand Letronat in June 2020 .
“ Subsequently , the brand was rebranded to Lebreta in July 2021 , signifying a significant stride in treating postmenopausal women with
Leonard Ariff Abdul Shatar breast cancer .”
COMMITTED TO HALAL EXCELLENCE
A significant accomplishment was made in 2022 when Duopharma HAPI received LEBRETA ’ s halal certification from the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia ( JAKIM ).
This certification highlights the company ’ s unwavering commitment to providing halal medical solutions and reaffirms its dedication to accommodating patients varied cultural and ethical choices .
When the commercial production of the Trevive tablet was successfully launched in 2023 , the facility added another achievement to its resume . Duopharma HAPI ’ s role as a crucial actor in promoting medical solutions in Malaysia and worldwide is further cemented by the introduction of this locally-produced cancer treatment .
VISION FOR THE FUTURE
By completing the pilot batch for a specific lung cancer treatment in July 2023 , Duopharma HAPI significantly advanced its pioneering work .
The company is currently making active efforts to get NPRA approval with a June 2024 target . This amazing achievement highlights the facility ’ s capabilities while reinforcing its dedication to ongoing innovation and the pursuit of medical excellence .
The experience of Duopharma HAPI is proof of the revolutionary potential of halal medical solutions .
“ By synergising cutting-edge technology , a diverse product portfolio , and a steadfast commitment to excellence , the facility is redefining the paradigm of cancer drug manufacturing on both a national and global scale ,” added Leonard Ariff .
Duopharma HAPI is well-positioned to lead a new era of healthcare solutions rooted in halal principles and unshakable commitment to patient well-being as it continues to surpass outstanding milestones . – The Health have been challenges along the way .
The cost of raw materials has skyrocketed like it has in every business . Duopharma Biotech was compelled to source its supplies directly from their countries of origin , such as China and India , to keep up with manufacturing outputs .
But she said local prices have increased as well .
“ It ’ s a result of growing operating expenses across all of our locations , including the rise in the minimum wage . Our staff will always receive the greatest care possible .
“ However , because the cost of goods is directly impacted by the minimum wage hike , this must be passed on to consumers . Our finances have suffered as a result of the growth in these charges .”
The future of Malaysia ’ s halal pharmaceutical business appears bright despite these financial obstacles , and it has been growing gradually .
Siti Sa ’ diah said Duopharma Biotech had set a solid foundation by unveiling the Malaysia Standard MS2424 Halal Pharmaceutical Guidelines in 2012 .
Since then , the nation has made amazing progress and has an impressive portfolio of over 4,000 pharmaceutical products with halal registration .
However , there is a need for improvement within the sector .
“ Despite the development and growth , there is still a general lack of knowledge about halal medications .
“ It is essential to raise consumer and healthcare professional awareness to realise the full potential of Malaysia ’ s halal pharmaceutical market . All players in the healthcare and halal ecosystem must work together .
“ With greater awareness , we can expect to witness even more pronounced growth and wider acceptance of halal pharmaceutical products domestically and internationally ,” she said . – The Health