Bernama.com (Malaysian National News Agency), 20 October, 2006

Novartis AG Keen To Invest In Malaysia's Biotechnology Sector

PUTRAJAYA, Oct 20 (Bernama) -- Novartis AG, one of the world's largest pharmaceutical companies, is interested to invest in Malaysia's biotechnology sector involving health products.

This was conveyed by its chief executive officer Daniel Vasella during a meeting with Science, Technology and Innovations Minister Datuk Seri Jamaluddin Jarjis here Friday.

Jamaluddin said the company which has expertise in the biotechnology field would carry out studies on possible products from Malaysia's rich natural resources.

"We have many plants with qualities that can enhance human health. So, we can discuss how to make health products from them," he told reporters after the meeting.

Novartis AG is one of the largest pharmaceutical and life sciences companies in the world, with core businesses in pharmaceuticals, consumer health, generics, eye-care and animal health.

Headquartered in Basel, Switzerland, the group employ about 97,000 people and operate in over 140 countries around the world, including Malaysia.

Jamaluddin said Vasella was expected to have a meeting with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi.

He said discussions would also be held with scientists, entrepreneurs and others involved in the biotechnology field.

-- BERNAMA