The Human Genome Project II Rare Disease Alliance of the Asia-Pacific Region (HGP2 RaDiAnce-APAC) was recently established in Kuala Lumpur to promote cooperation in rare disease care. This initiative involves clinical experts, genomics researchers, and public health representatives from ten APAC countries, including Malaysia, India, and China. The alliance, spearheaded by China’s BGI Group and regional partners, focuses on improving rare disease diagnosis, genomics research, and public health responses in the region.
Alliance members gathered for the launch meeting and endorsed the Joint Declaration of the HGP2 RaDiAnce-APAC Initiative, emphasizing their joint dedication to advancing rare disease care through regional collaboration. Notable figures at the event, such as Nor Fariza Binti Ngah from the Malaysian Ministry of Health and Zilfalil Bin Alwi from Universiti Sains Malaysia, highlighted the importance of unified efforts in addressing rare diseases across the Asia-Pacific.
Hou Yong, the general manager of BGI Genomics, expressed optimism that the alliance would enhance the standardization and accessibility of rare disease diagnosis and treatment in the Asia-Pacific region. Thong Meow Keong, a professor at Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, emphasized the region’s focus on advancing rare disease diagnosis, genetic technology, and precision public health through the HGP2 initiative. With a global impact on millions affected by rare diseases, there is hope that genetic technology and artificial intelligence will revolutionize healthcare systems in this field.
