Page 37 - DIGITAL e-Book RCPH 2026

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PRECISION HEALTH
P P R E C I S I O N H E A L T H

Abstracts for 1st Regional Conference on Precision Health (RCPH)
15-16th April 2026, Royale Chulan Kuala Lumpur
Pharmacogenomics in Practice: Applications and Challenges
Prof. Dr. Teh Lay Kek
UiTM Puncak Alam Campus, Malaysia
ABSTRACT
Pharmacogenomics, the study of how genetic differences influence individual responses to medications, is
a key component of personalized medicine. In Malaysia, its application in clinical practice holds strong
potential to improve treatment efficacy, reduce adverse drug reactions, and guide more precise dosing.
This is particularly important in Malaysia’s multi-ethnic population, comprising Malays, Chinese, Indians,
and indigenous groups, each with distinct genetic backgrounds that affect drug response. Since the early
2000s, Malaysia has made steady progress in pharmacogenetics and pharmacogenomics research.
However, efforts remain somewhat fragmented and lack a coordinated national framework. My research
team has contributed to both basic and translational research aimed at advancing pharmacogenomics
implementation in Malaysia. We have developed rapid PCR-based assays for clinically relevant genetic
variants, including HLA-B*15:02, which is associated with severe adverse drug reactions, as well as
variants influencing responses to widely used drugs such as warfarin, clopidogrel, and tamoxifen. Our work
also includes whole-genome sequencing of Malay and Orang Asli populations, alongside the development
of genotype–phenotype databases that support national precision medicine initiatives. In collaboration with
healthcare providers and a start-up company, we have facilitated the introduction of pharmacogenomic
testing services to bridge research and clinical practice. In addition, our current research extends into
computational modeling of drug–herb–genotype interactions, aiming to enhance the safe and effective use
of both conventional medicines and traditional herbal products. Given the widespread use of herbal
remedies in Malaysia, this work focuses on predicting potential interactions between pharmaceuticals,
herbal compounds, and genetic variants. By integrating bioinformatics, pharmacogenomic data, and
systems biology approaches, we aim to develop predictive models that can identify high-risk combinations
and support genotype-guided recommendations for safer drug and herb use. Despite these advances,
several challenges remain. These include limited awareness among healthcare professionals, high costs of
testing, inadequate infrastructure, and the absence of standardized clinical guidelines. Ethical and social
considerations, such as data privacy, informed consent, and equitable access also require careful attention.
Moving forward, a more coordinated national strategy is essential. This includes integrating
pharmacogenomics into medical and pharmacy education, expanding support for research and clinical
implementation, and establishing national guidelines. Strengthening collaboration between public and
private sectors, along with developing shared databases, will be critical. Improving affordability and

accessibility through the public healthcare system is another key priority. A phased approach which begins
with high-risk drugs and vulnerable patient populations may offer a practical pathway for broader
implementation. In summary, while Malaysia has made meaningful progress in pharmacogenomics, more
structured and collaborative efforts are needed to fully integrate it into routine healthcare. With appropriate
strategies, including emerging computational approaches to drug–herb–genotype interactions,
pharmacogenomics has the potential to significantly enhance patient safety and treatment outcomes in
Malaysia.