From 1963 to 2026, Sarawak transformed from a medically underserved territory into an international clinical research hub, conducting global first-in-human cancer trials and achieving 73% clinic digitalisation while pursuing health autonomy under MA63 despite persistent rural infrastructure challenges.
As of 2025, Sarawak General Hospital’s recognition and selection for Asia Pacific first-in-human trials marks a milestone for Sarawak, highlighting its emergence as a credible research hub, enhancing patient access, talent retention, and international collaboration.
This endeavour aligns with the objectives outlined in the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, which intends to empower the people of Sarawak with the necessary skills to access higher-paying job opportunities and boost their income levels.
CRC SGH is the first site in Malaysia to obtain Malaysia Ministry of Health (MoH) approval to undertake FIH clinical trials, having done so in November 2019.