The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening regulatory collaboration with Malaysia after high-level discussions in Kuala Lumpur, according to a report published on 15 September 2026.

MHRA representatives, including Chief Executive Lawrence Tallon, met Malaysia's Minister of Health, YB Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad, and senior leaders from the country's healthcare, regulatory and research organisations. The agency heard about Malaysia's progress in healthcare, medicines regulation and research, as well as the minister's stated ambition to keep strengthening the country as a leading environment for healthcare innovation, clinical research and life sciences.

Discussions covered opportunities to deepen cooperation in medicines, medical devices and clinical trials. Areas of potential collaboration included greater expert exchange, sharing regulatory knowledge and best practice, work on emerging technologies, and exploring more efficient development and approval pathways while maintaining standards of safety, quality and effectiveness. The two sides agreed practical next steps, including further engagement between experts and opportunities for teams to work together. The MHRA said the meeting formed part of its wider commitment to regulatory partnerships across the ASEAN region.