PETALING JAYA: The inaugural Pharma Industry Awards 2024 was held in conjunction with the Regulatory Plus Conference 2024 at One World Hotel, here, on Sept 19.
It celebrated the leaders of Malaysia's pharmaceutical manufacturing industry and recognised the performance of Malaysian pharmaceutical companies in providing quality and affordable medicines to the nation's citizens.
The awards were presented by Health Ministry deputy director-general (Pharmaceutical Services) Norhaliza A. Halim and Malaysia Productivity Corporation (MPC) director-general Zahid Ismail.
The awards emphasised the vital role of Malaysian manufacturers in ensuring the security of the country's healthcare system, reducing dependency on imported medicines and safeguarding against global supply chain disruptions.
By championing Malaysian production, the industry contributes to the sustainability and affordability of medicines for Malaysians.
"Winning the Export Award in the sub-category for companies with export revenue exceeding RM50 million is a testament to the dedication of our team at Xepa-Soul Pattinson. It highlights our commitment to expanding Malaysia's footprint in the global market while providing quality, affordable medicines," said Champion of the Pharmaceutical Productivity Nexus and Xepa-Soul Pattinson Sdn Bhd executive director Ch'ng Kien Peng.
Kotra Pharma (M) Sdn Bhd managing director Jimmy Piong said: "At Kotra Pharma, we take pride in serving the Malaysian market with reliable and affordable pharmaceutical products. Being recognised for our Malaysian revenue achievement motivates us to continue our mission."
The company won the Local Revenue Award for companies with local revenue exceeding RM100 million.
Also showcased were the achievements of Hovid Bhd, Kotra Pharma, Ain Medicare Sdn Bhd, and Xepa-Soul Pattinson in both Malaysian revenue growth and export expansion.
SM Pharmaceuticals Sdn Bhd and Novugen Pharma Sdn Bhd were lauded for their research and development (R&D) investments.
"Our commitment to R&D is driven by our mission to bring affordable, high-quality medicines to the market. Receiving the R&D Award for companies with R&D investments exceeding RM100 million reflects our dedication to innovation and continuous improvement, ensuring early access to complex treatments that lack robust generic alternatives," said Novugen Pharma chief executive officer Rahil Mahmood.
Tiger Balm Sdn Bhd and Duopharma Biotech Bhd were commended for their investments in expanding manufacturing capabilities to meet the demand for high-quality medicines in Malaysian and international markets.
"At Duopharma Biotech, we strive to enhance our efficiency and output, which is why this recognition of our revenue per employee in 2023 is so meaningful to us," stated Duopharma Biotech chief executive officer (Commercial) Wan Amir-Jeffery Wan Abdul Majid upon receiving the Second Runners-up position for the Productivity Award.
Tiger Balm, THP Medical Sdn Bhd, Duopharma Biotech, Xepa-Soul Pattinson and Ranbaxy Malaysia Sdn Bhd were recognised for their dedication to operational efficiency and productivity improvements.
The Highest Productivity Award, presented by Zahid, focused on revenue per employee in the over-the-counter and pharmaceutical product category, showcasing companies that effectively optimised their workforce while delivering strong financial performance.
In closing, Malaysian Organisation of Pharmaceutical Industries executive director Billy Urudra commended industry leaders for their achievements and said they motivated the growth and success of the Malaysian pharmaceutical manufacturing industry.