KUALA LUMPUR – A locally developed vaccine for oral cancer with promising early results has been stalled for seven years due to a lack of funding, prompting urgent calls for government intervention.
Cancer Research Malaysia (CRMY) said it has been unable to secure the financial backing needed to begin human clinical trials since 2019, despite continued progress in preclinical research.
Its chief executive officer, Andy Khoo, said internal studies and animal testing continue to demonstrate the vaccine’s potential as a safe treatment and possible cure for multiple types of cancer.
“From 2019 until now in 2026, seven years later, we have not managed to secure any funding to do human trials for a cancer vaccine,” he said during the Race Against Cancer Run 2026 at the Kepong Metropolitan Park today.
Kepong MP Lim Lip Eng, who officiated the event, echoed Khoo’s call.
“I think our government is not doing enough for cancer research,” he told Scoop, urging a shift in national priorities towards life-saving medical innovation.
The event drew about 1,600 participants in a show of public support and fundraising.
“The RAC is more than just a run; it is a movement that brings people together in solidarity, hope, and purpose. Every participant and contribution helps us advance critical research and extend our reach to communities in need,” Khoo added.
However, CRMY stressed that public donations alone are insufficient to fund the high costs of advanced clinical trials, reinforcing the need for sustained government support.
Founded in 2000, CRMY is Malaysia’s only independent non-profit dedicated to cancer research focused on Asian genetics. Its work includes extensive breast cancer genomic studies and innovations such as MeMoSA, an AI-driven mobile application for early oral cancer detection aimed at underserved B40 communities.
As the organisation marks its 26th year, it continues to lead research into oral, nasopharyngeal, and hereditary cancers. But without a significant funding boost, breakthroughs like the Malaysian-developed cancer vaccine risk remaining out of reach for patients who need them most. – March 29, 2026