ACE Market-listed Malaysian Genomics Resource Centre Bhd has filled up its board with two new independent non-executive directors (INEDs) in retired Health Ministry’s secretary-general Datuk Seri Dr Chen Chaw Min and former Securities Commission (SC) board member Datuk Francis Tan Leh Kiah.
Both Dr Chen, 60, and Tan, 70, joined the leading Southeast Asia genomics and biopharmaceutical firm with effect from yesterday (Aug 3), according to the company’s Bursa Malaysia filing.
CEO Sasha Nordin said the company looks forward to working with both Dr Chen and Tan as their extensive experience and knowledge will bring significant value to the company and its long-term growth in the healthcare space.
“Dr Chen’s experience in various ministries as well as his extensive involvement in several National Policy Task Forces and Health-related Councils will be of immense value to Malaysian Genomics’ continued future expansion in providing comprehensive and diverse genomics, biopharmaceutical and healthcare services in the region,” he justified.
“We also look forward to working with Tan as we expand our capabilities from being a pioneer in genomics technologies to a leader in personalised and precision healthcare. His corporate experience will be valuable as we forge paths into new opportunities and emerging markets.”
Dr Chen’s career in the Malaysian civil service spanned more than 30 years. At the Health Ministry, he contributed significantly to Malaysia’s COVID-19 response before retiring as its secretary-general in February this year.
Meanwhile, Tan brings with him a wealth of experience in corporate and tax matters, accumulated from over 35 years of working experience with both the Government and the private sector. He was the former managing partner of Azman, Davidson & Co Advocates and Solicitors and served 20 years as a board member of the Securities Commission.
“The right individuals make an effective board and ensure strong corporate governance. With our diversification into biopharmaceutical and healthcare, we look forward to the contributions of our independent directors to guide us in our path of continued growth,” added Sasha.
Having pioneered genome sequencing and analysis in Malaysia, Malaysian Genomics recently diversified into biopharmaceutical and healthcare services, including the provision of Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-cell (CAR T-cell) immunotherapy for cancers.
The company closed yesterday’s trading at RM1.98, up 3 sen or 1.54% with 8.37 million shares traded, thus valuing the company at RM235 mil. – Aug 4, 2021
