Precision medicine allows for oncologists to pinpoint the unique genetic and molecular features of a patient’s tumour and tailor therapies that are more likely to be effective.1 Johnson & Johnson (J&J) has been steadily applying this approach to transform cancer care from a “treat-to-progression” model to a “treat-to-cure” strategy, significantly improving survival outcomes for major cancers, including lung cancer, prostate cancer and multiple myeloma. General Manager of J&J Malaysia and Indonesia, Lim Yee Pin, speaks to MIMS Doctor (MD) about J&J’s contributions to improving cancer care.
MD: Oncology is commonly considered the most challenging therapeutic area due to cost and access barriers. What are the contributions of J&J to cancer care in Malaysia?
Lim: J&J Malaysia is well recognised, and our products trusted for many years among oncologists, haematologists, urologists, and pulmonologist, the main specialist groups managing cancers such as multiple myeloma, prostate cancer, and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Here is a breakdown of disease areas where J&J excels:
Multiple myeloma
Treatment usually combines novel agents like proteasome inhibitors and immunomodulatory drugs with steroids and chemotherapy, and eligible patients may receive haematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT). Advances in these therapies have significantly improved survival outcomes over recent decades. J&J has significantly advanced multiple myeloma treatment with daratumumab, a monoclonal antibody targeting CD38 on myeloma cells.2 Daratumumab is now a cornerstone therapy, improving survival and quality of life when used alone or in combination treatments. Our first-generation multiple myeloma therapy is one of the standards of care in Malaysia. Building on this success, J&J continues to develop next-generation therapies, including bispecific T-cell engagers and CAR-T treatments,3 expanding its multiple myeloma portfolio globally.
Prostate cancer
J&J has been instrumental in advancing prostate cancer treatment with therapies like apalutamide,4 emphasising precision medicine and targeted therapies to improve patient outcomes. Apalutamide has been available in Malaysia for several years as part of advanced prostate cancer management. J&J continues to support research to enhance early detection and optimise treatments. Despite older drugs being replaced by biosimilars and generics, physicians continue to associate J&J with innovation, quality, and clinical reliability.
Lung cancer
J&J advances lung cancer treatment by developing targeted therapies that address the disease’s biological diversity, using approaches such as small molecules, antibody-drug conjugates, radioligand therapies, and multi-specific antibodies. A key focus is the development of the first bispecific antibody for EGFR-mutated NSCLC, offering new hope where 5-year survival rates are below 20%. Building on a strong legacy of oncology innovation, J&J delivers therapies proven to improve overall and progression-free survival, earning the trust of physicians. The company is committed not only to bringing high-quality treatments to market but also to ensuring patient access in Malaysia through collaboration and data-driven advocacy, and shared commitment with our partners in the healthcare ecosystem.
MD: In what ways is J&J supporting the development of precision medicine in Malaysia?
Lim: Precision medicine is revolutionising healthcare by tailoring diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment to each patient’s unique genetic, biological, environmental, and lifestyle factors, moving beyond a one-size-fits-all approach. Our vision is simple yet powerful: to deliver the right medicine, at the right time, to the right patient. This approach extends beyond oncology to neurological, cardiovascular, infectious, and other disease areas, leveraging molecular biology and genomics alongside digital health, data analytics, and real-world evidence for personalised care. In diverse countries like Malaysia, precision medicine offers the potential for more accurate and timely diagnosis, fewer ineffective treatments, reduced side effects, and overall improved health outcomes.
MD: In addition to introducing new drugs in Malaysia, how do precision medicine and medical education align with this strategy?
Lim: Our strategy focuses on improving patient access to innovative therapies and empowering physicians to select the right patients through support for biomarker and genetic testing, especially in early clinical trial stages. These efforts enable more precise treatment decisions and better outcomes. Comprehensive medical education on disease biology, treatment sequencing, and diagnostics—delivered in partnership with leading institutions and key opinion leaders (KOLs)—builds clinical capacity in Malaysia without increasing healthcare costs. This commitment positions J&J Malaysia as a trusted scientific partner dedicated to advancing precision medicine and improving patient care.
MD: How do healthcare professionals (HCPs) perceive the real-world benefits of focusing on precision medicine and testing?
Lim: In general, HCPs view precision medicine as a substantial shift towards more targeted and effective treatment decisions.5,6 By matching therapies to a patient’s specific disease biology—including genetic mutations and biomarkers—it improves treatment efficacy, sometimes extending patient survival up to three-fold compared with traditional therapies.
Precision medicine reduces trial-and-error prescribing, enabling quicker identification of effective treatments while minimising side effects and adverse reactions. It also supports early detection and prevention by identifying high-risk patients through genetic screening. Additionally, precision medicine empowers patients with detailed information for informed decision-making and adherence. Beyond better clinical outcomes, it enhances healthcare resource efficiency by avoiding ineffective treatments and potentially reducing hospital stays, despite some concerns over initial costs. Overall, precision medicine improves patient care while optimising healthcare resources.
MD: In what ways is J&J collaborating with other stakeholders to improve access to cancer treatment in Malaysia?
Lim: J&J is actively engaged in multi-stakeholder collaborations focused on improving affordability and awareness of innovative cancer treatments. Partnering with non-governmental organisations (NGOs) such as the National Cancer Society Malaysia (NCSM), patient advocacy groups, professional associations, healthcare payers, governmental agencies, and charitable organisations, J&J works to enhance patient access from early testing through policy and education initiatives. Their efforts aim to extend survival, improve quality of life, and slow disease progression through timely, evidence-based care. Globally, we have launched an initiative to transform multiple myeloma care by addressing diagnosis delays, personalising therapy, and increasing clinical trial inclusivity via the Global MM Collaboration Council, with the ultimate ambition of curing patients.7,8
Additionally, J&J advocates for policy changes to incorporate innovative therapies into public sector formularies and is developing a white paper on value-based healthcare strategies in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and other industry partners. Patient access programmes further support eligible individuals facing financial barriers, reflecting J&J’s commitment to broadening access while upholding scientific innovation.
MD: How is J&J adapting its strategies to keep pace with emerging trends in cancer care and patient management?
Lim: J&J is advancing cancer care in Malaysia by enhancing disease awareness and patient advocacy, focusing on lung and prostate cancers. The “3rd Opinion” campaign empowers lung cancer patients and caregivers to make informed treatment decisions through shared decision-making. For prostate cancer, J&J partners with HCPs and advocacy groups to promote early detection, reduce stigma, and support informed patient choices. These initiatives aim to engage and empower Malaysian patients throughout their cancer journey, fostering better outcomes.
MD: What new innovations in cancer treatment is J&J currently exploring or planning to launch in Malaysia? What is in the pipeline in the next 5 years?
Lim: J&J is dedicated to advancing cancer care in Malaysia by broadening lung cancer therapy indications and supporting multiple myeloma patients throughout their treatment journey. Collaborating closely with HCPs, they ensure timely access to innovative treatments and comprehensive support, aiming to provide personalised care that improves outcomes and quality of life for Malaysian patients.
MD: Please explain how J&J is working to improve accessibility to life-saving treatment.