NIBM Facilities Targeted To Begin Operations In 2027 - Science Minister

PUTRAJAYA, Oct 15 (Bernama) — The Animal Biosafety Level III (ABSL-III) laboratory facility at the National Institutes of Biotechnology Malaysia (NIBM) is expected to begin operations in January 2027, while the Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) facility is targeted to commence operations in July of the same year.

Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk Chang Lih Kang said the matter was discussed at the 2026 Vaccine Fraternity Meeting, which he chaired, during which a review on progress in developing the national vaccine ecosystem and strengthen cooperation among stakeholders was carried out.

“The development of NIBM facilities and a feasibility study on the Human Vaccine Commercialisation Framework (KKVM) were important steps towards strengthening local vaccine capabilities in research, production and commercialisation, while enhancing the country’s preparedness to face infectious disease threats.

“The study aims to assess suitable approaches to connecting research and technology development outcomes with vaccine production and market access, while taking into account industry needs and the level of readiness of the country’s vaccine ecosystem,” he said in a statement today.

Chang said the development of NIBM facilities and the KKVM study were among the initiatives supporting the aspirations of the National Vaccine Development Roadmap, implemented through cooperation between his ministry the Health Ministry.

“These efforts aim to develop comprehensive local vaccine capabilities and enhance the country’s preparedness in facing infectious disease threats,” he added.

-- BERNAMA