Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – 31 May 2025 – Oncode Scientific, in collaboration with Astellas Pharma — a leading pharmaceutical company headquartered in Japan — has officially launched the FLT3 Testing Copay Program, a major initiative to expand access to precision diagnostics for relapsed or refractory acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients within Malaysia’s public healthcare system.
The launch event, held at VE Hotel Bangsar, was officiated by YB Datuk Ts. Dr. Mohd Nor Azman Hassan, Deputy Secretary General (Technology Development), Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI). The ceremony was attended by representatives from MOSTI, National Cancer Society Malaysia (NCSM), Malaysian Technology Development Corporation (MTDC), Bioeconomy Corporation, senior clinicians, and key stakeholders from across the healthcare ecosystem.
“This partnership between Oncode and Astellas exemplifies how science and innovation can be translated into real-world impact. It aligns with our national agenda under the National Biotechnology Policy 2.0 to harness omics technologies and targeted therapies for better health outcomes. Initiatives like this are driving Malaysia forward as a high-tech nation and positioning our local biotech ecosystem for global leadership.” said YB Datuk Ts. Dr. Mohd Nor Azman Hassan during his officiating remarks.
The FLT3 Testing Copay Program aims to reduce the financial burden associated with FLT3 mutation testing — a critical step in guiding the use of targeted therapies for AML. By combining Oncode’s diagnostic expertise with Astellas’ support, the program enables eligible patients in public hospitals to access high-quality molecular testing at significantly reduced costs.
“This initiative marks an important milestone in making precision medicine more inclusive,” said Assoc. Prof. Dr. Lim Su Wen, Founding CEO of Oncode. “We are committed to ensuring that innovative diagnostics reach the patients who need them most — regardless of financial background.”
“At Astellas, we are driven by our mission to improve the lives of patients. This program represents our shared vision with Oncode to support equitable access to advanced cancer diagnostics and care,” added Mr. Nikhil Goyal, Business Unit Head of Oncology, Astellas Pharma Malaysia and Singapore.
A Collaboration Agreement between Oncode and Astellas was formally signed during the event, witnessed by representatives from MOSTI and NCSM — underscoring the strength of cross-sector partnerships in advancing public health innovation.
Following the launch, guests participated in a clinical forum featuring insightful discussions and case-based sharing by distinguished haematologists. The forum focused on recent advancements in AML treatment and the evolving role of molecular diagnostics and targeted therapies in improving patient outcomes.
About Oncode Scientific
Oncode is a leading molecular diagnostics company dedicated to advancing precision medicine in oncology and hematology. Specializing in the development and delivery of high-quality, clinically actionable diagnostic solutions, Oncode supports timely, informed clinical decision-making that improves patient outcomes.
The company operates a CAP-accredited and ISO 15189-certified laboratory, upholding the highest international standards for quality, accuracy, and patient safety. Through scientific innovation, regulatory excellence, and a strong commitment to healthcare access, Oncode is expanding availability of cutting-edge diagnostics across public and private healthcare systems in the region. https://www.oncodesc.com/.
About Astellas Pharma
Astellas Pharma Inc. is a pharmaceutical company conducting business in more than 70 countries around the world. Astellas is promoting the Focus Area Approach that is designed to identify opportunities for the continuous creation of new drugs to address diseases with high unmet medical needs by focusing on Biology and Modality. Furthermore, Astellas is also looking beyond its foundational Rx focus to create Rx+® healthcare solutions that combine Astellas’ expertise and knowledge with cutting-edge technology in different fields of external partners. Through these efforts, Astellas stands on the forefront of healthcare change to turn innovative science into value for patients. For more information, please visit the website at https://www.astellas.com/en.