Experts convene to accelerate access to human genomics for health across the Western Pacific Region

Event highlights

15 May 2025

Experts from across the Western Pacific Region gathered in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia from 11-12 November 2024, for the Expert Working Group Meeting on Accelerating Access to Human Genomics in the Western Pacific, co-hosted by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Ministry of Health Malaysia.

Over two days, 25 international experts and WHO Secretariat members collaborated with 21 Malaysian genomics specialists to tackle challenges and opportunities in human genomics.

The meeting, a significant milestone in advancing human genomics across the Western Pacific Region, focused on policy development, workforce development, and equitable access. It also explored Malaysia’s national genomics programme as a case study to identify lessons learned and best practices for the Region.

Driving regional genomics through collaboration

On the first day, WHO shared updates on global and regional human genomics activities and introduced the draft policy Toolkit aimed at supporting Member States. Experts engaged in discussions to refine the Toolkit using the World Café method, emphasizing simplicity and practical application for policymakers.

Day two featured insights into Malaysia’s genomics programme, including its MyGenom initiative, which successfully enrolled over 1,500 participants within three months through various outreach strategies. Presentations highlighted efforts to build a genomics workforce, with a focus on bioinformaticians and genetic counsellors. Expert-led sessions then addressed data-sharing and privacy in genomics, followed by small-group discussions to identify workforce gaps and explore potential training solutions.

Key recommendations from the meeting included:

• Streamlining the genomics policy Toolkit to help policymakers implement equitable human genomics policy;
• Incorporating cost–benefit analyses and robust data governance frameworks;
• Highlighting the potential of genomics to improve health outcomes equitably, with an emphasis on transparency, public trust, and ethical governance;
• Addressing significant workforce shortages in genetic counsellors, bioinformaticians, and clinical geneticists.

Strengthening genomics for better health

The discussions and commitments made during the meeting marked a pivotal step in advancing human genomics across the Western Pacific Region. By addressing workforce shortages, prioritizing ethical data governance, and fostering regional collaboration, the Region is positioning itself to unlock the full potential of genomics to improve health outcomes equitably.