MALAYSIAN BIOTECHCORP WINS EXCELLENCE IN GROWTH AWARD

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 8 (Bernama) -- Malaysian Biotechnology Corporation
(BiotechCorp), the lead development agency for the biotech industry in Malaysia,
has been awarded the "Excellence in Growth Award" by Frost and Sullivan.

The award recognises the company that has demonstrated significant
excellence on growth leadership.

Chief Executive Officer Iskandar Mizal Mahmood said the award reaffirmed
biotechnology as the key driver of economic growth in Malaysia.

The increasing number of BioNexus-status companies going global were
testament to the growth, he said in a statement today.

Iskandar said some of the companies have been listed on the London Stock
Exchange, Australia Stock Exchange and Bursa Malaysia (Malaysia Exchange).

Within four years, BioNexus-status companies recorded a total revenue of
RM1.121 billion (US$1=RM3.08), with half of the revenue coming from export
earnings, he said.

Through the BioNexus Partners' Programme, BiotechCorp has been
collaborating with 41 labs in public universities and research institutes to
expedite commercialisation of research and development products and services.

Meanwhile, Frost and Sullivan Group Vice-President (Pharmaceuticals/Biotech)
Rhenu Bhuller said the BiotechCorp played a major supporting role in increasing
the number and diversity of biotechnology companies in Malaysia.

"The number of BioNexus firms grew by 37 per cent last year, reflecting the
success of the programme to drive growth of biotechnology small and medium
enterprises in Malaysia," he added.

-- BERNAMA