Today, the world witnesses the launch of this first-ever clinical trial of a Malaysian produced research and development solution to combat this growing disease.
Dengue fever is an increasing danger to health worldwide and Malaysia is now joining the fight against this debilitating and potentially fatal viral disease. From 2000 to 2019, the World Health Organization, WHO, documented a ten-fold surge in reported cases worldwide, from 500 000 to 5.2 million cases.
Now thanks to over a decade of scientific translational research partnership between Universiti Malaya’s Tropical Infectious Diseases Research and Education Centre (TIDREC) and a local bioscience company, Herbitec Sdn. Bhd., an antiviral solution to dengue fever is ready for clinical trial. TIDREC and Herbitec are collaborating with award winning Qualitas Health Group to launch the first clinical trial for a breakthrough remedy in the fight against dengue.
The trial aims to prevent severe dengue by translating laboratory discoveries into effective treatments. A successful clinical trial will be an important boost to the zero mortality from dengue by 2030 target as set by the sustainable development goals of WHO.
“I am particularly proud of the collaborative spirit that has fuelled the development of this clinical trial. The partnership between TIDREC, Herbitec Sdn Bhd and Qualitas exemplifies the power of collaboration in driving meaningful progress in scientific research and healthcare innovation. Together, we have pooled our expertise, resources, and collective determination to address this pressing public health challenge.
“As we embark on this historic clinical trial, I want to reaffirm our unwavering commitment to excellence in research, patient care, and community health. Our collective efforts will be guided by the highest standards of scientific rigor, ethical integrity, and patient-centred care. Through meticulous observation, analysis, and collaboration, we will strive to generate robust evidence that can inform clinical practice and policy decisions in the fight against dengue.
“In conclusion, I would like to express my utmost gratitude to everyone involved in bringing this clinical trial to fruition, especially the UM research community. Your dedication, passion, and expertise are truly commendable, and I have no doubt that together, we will make significant strides towards improving the health and well-being of individuals affected by dengue fever,” said Professor Ir. Dr. Kaharudin bin Dimyati, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research & Innovation) Universiti Malaya.
Professor Sazaly Abu Bakar, Executive Director of TIDREC expressing his gratitude towards the partners, stated, "We are grateful to HERBITEC (M) SDN BHD, an indirect subsidiary of Tanco Holdings Bhd, and Qualitas Medical Health Group for their pivotal roles in support of this initiative. HERBITEC's supply of NODEN™, an innovative product poised to revolutionize dengue treatment, and Qualitas hosting the clinical trials in their dedicated clinics, are exemplary of the mutually beneficial collaboration between academia and the private sector. This partnership would serve as an example of how research findings from the laboratory could make an impact on the real problems faced by the community."