Stem Cell Therapy Cost in Malaysia 2023

Stem cell therapy has gained popularity as a promising treatment option for conditions where the current medical treatment protocols have been exhausted. However, there is also a lot of confusion due to the overwhelming flood of disinformation and mixing of credible real scientific information and marketing hypes available on the internet. There are more than 300,000 scientific studies published on PubMed.gov and more than 8,000 on-going stem cell related studies on clinicaltrials.gov.

stem cell therapy malaysia

Contents

We have compiled and summarised essential information below in layman's terms so that you can understand and make a better informed decision.

We have sifted through the internet and filtered out the junks out there. We have summarised essential information and provided some relevant links in order to facilitate your research for 'Stem Cell Therapy Malaysia' in one place. Do go through them and do your own research and hopefully, you will be getting the best possible qualified doctor for your stem cell procedure in Malaysia.
  • What are Stem Cells?
  • Stem Cell Therapy Cost in Malaysia
  • Stem Cell Malaysia Reviews
  • Stem Cell Therapy for Diabetes in Malaysia
  • Stem Cell Treatment for Knees in Malaysia
  • Stem Cell Therapy for Autism in Malaysia
  • Best Stem Cell Therapy Clinics in Kuala Lumpur and Selangor
  • Mesenchymal stem cells
  • Oral Stem Cell Supplements? | Scam Alert
Stem cell Malaysia

What are Stem Cells?

The primary purpose of stem cells is to maintain, heal and regenerate tissues wherever they reside in your body. This is a continuous process that occurs inside your body throughout your life. If you didn't have stem cells, your lifespan would be about an hour, because there would be nothing to replace exhausted cells or damaged tissue. In addition, any time your body is exposed to any sort of toxin, the inflammatory process causes stem cells to swarm the area to repair the damage.

Stem cells differ from other kinds of cells in the body. They are special because of their ability to self-renew, duplicate, regenerate and repair.

Stem cells can also be classified based on their source, for example, embryonic stem cells, foetal stem cells and adult stem cells.
Historically, stem cells were isolated from bone marrow, and have been used for bone marrow transplants for cancer patients since the 1930s. However, you can get stem cells from just about any tissue in your body, as every tissue contains stem cells. It's important to know that there are many types of adult stem cells:
  • Hematopoietic Stem Cells (Blood Stem Cells)
  • Mesenchymal Stem Cells.
  • Neural Stem Cells.
  • Epithelial Stem Cells.
  • Skin Stem Cells.
This is a common source of confusion as different types of stem cells are used to treat different types of diseases. For example blood stem cells are used to treat blood related problems like leukemias and lymphomas. Mesenchymal stem cells are used to potentially repair organs like the heart in heart failure cases.

Your bone marrow actually has very low amounts of mesenchymal stem cells, which are now believed to be the most important, from a treatment perspective. Mesenchymal stem cells have the ability to send signals out to the rest of your body, calling cells to the area to help promote healing.

There are several stem cell products available in the Malaysian market. However, it's important to note that not all of these products contain live stem cells. For stem cells to remain alive, they must be stored in liquid nitrogen storage. Additionally, it's important to understand that in order for live stem cells to reach the target organ, they must be administered intravenously or intramuscularly. Stem cells taken orally will be digested and broken down in the stomach.

Mesenchymal Stem Cells Malaysia
Mesenchymal Stem Cells

Stem Cell Therapy Cost in Malaysia

The cost of stem cell-related services can vary widely depending on the type of service being provided. Stem cell therapy has been in use for several decades, most notably for the treatment of leukemia, where it has saved thousands of lives through bone marrow transplants.

stem cell price malaysia

Beyond the use of stem cell in bone marrow transplant, stem cell treatment for other indications are already going through clinical trials and have shown positive results in diseases such as knee osteoarthritis, diabetes, heart disease, autism and anti-aging purposes.

As a guide, the cost of mesenchymal stem cells in Malaysia may cost from MYR 60,000 to MYR 90,000 for 100 million cells per treatment.

Stem Cell Cartilage Regeneration Package for the knees will vary from MYR 20,000 to MYR 25,000 per knee. Medical insurance will unlikely to cover stem cell therapy as they prefer to wait for more evidence before covering it. Still, when you compare it to the cost of long-term medications or the out-of-pocket cost of getting a knee replacement, stem cell therapy may still be a less expensive option.

Some of the reported and published stem cell therapy and stem cell transplant costs in Malaysia include the following:
  • In private medical centers, the average cost for using hematopoietic stem cells (HSC - Hematopoietic Stem Cells) as an RMT (regenerative medicine therapy) for blood cancer (leukemia and lymphoma) is in the range of MYR 200,000 to 250,000. Through the Medical Assistance Fund of the Malaysian Ministry of Health Malaysia (MOH), the cost of treatment can be reduced to around MYR 40,000 to 60,000 at all University Hospitals. (Imran 2022)
  • Apart from bone marrow transplantation, stem cell treatment for other causes is already being investigated in clinical trials and has shown promising outcomes for treating disorders, such as diabetes, heart disease, knee osteoarthritis, autism, and anti-aging. Approximately, 100 million MSCs (mesenchymal stem cells) treatment in Malaysia might cost between MYR 50,000 and MYR 80,000. (Imran 2022)

Best Place for Stem Cell Therapy in Malaysia

We are proud to present our “Best Stem Cell Therapy Centres” collection, featuring the top most-popular stem cell therapy centres in Malaysia. These cutting-edge centres help make stem cell therapy accessible and move the field forward in each key area of stem cell therapy. 

Check out our short-listed stem cell therapy clinics in Malaysia list below. The list of centres has been arranged in no particular order.

Methodology: The selection of the clinics is based on Google Search Results, reviews and information available on blogs and forums.

Find doctors, specialised in Regenerative Medicine Therapy (RMT) and compare prices, costs and reviews.

1. Hospital Ampang Clinical Stem Cell Services (Ministry of Health)

The Clinical Stem Cell Services Unit, Hospital Ampang was established in November 2006. An all-new transplant ward was strengthened in July 2008 with 10 transplant rooms, 6 post transplant rooms and 2 suites.

The Stem Cell Transplant unit was originally in Hospital Kuala Lumpur and was transferred to Hospital Ampang in 2006 and became the National Referral Centre for hematological expertise.

At present Hospital Ampang is able to carry out 180 transplants/year since 2010 compared with only 40-45 transplants previously. Waiting time is now less than 2 months (compared to 6 months when the service was started), mainly to allow time for donor and patient workup. Emergency cases like bone marrow failures can be accommodated within 2 weeks once a donor is identified. From 1999 to 25 October 2012, 834 adult transplants have been done in this unit with 443 autologous transplants, 359 allogenic-fully matched sibling, 18 allogenic-matched unrelated and 7 cord blood transplants.
(source: moh.gov.my)

Address: Jalan Mewah Utara, Taman Pandan Mewah, 68000 Ampang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia.

Contact No.: +60 3-4289 6000

2. Stem Cell Malaysia (SCM)

Stem Cell Therapy Malaysia Working Group (SCM) is a network of specially trained multi-disciplined medical doctors and specialists, providing advanced, research-driven, regenerative medicine, integrative medicine and lifestyle medicine in Malaysia.

There is no one-size fits all solution for stem cell therapy. Whether it's allogeneic or autologous stem cells, we will need to assess every individual and pre-qualify them for a personalised recommendation.

Stem Cell Malaysia, was established in 2018 as a one-stop Stem Cell Therapy service provider assisting patients worldwide seeking for Stem Cell therapy through our panel of specialised doctors with years of experience in this field having treated hundreds of patients in the past decade.

Stem Cell Malaysia has 9 partner clinics in Klang Valley i.e. Putrajaya, Pantai Hospital Kuala Lumpur, Subang Jaya Medical Centre, Life Care Medical Centre, Assunta Hospital, Publika KL, Petaling Jaya, Shah Alam, Seri Kembangan and Kajang.

Web: stemcell.aestheticsadvisor.com

WhatsApp us for a Free Tele-Consultation: +60 11 - 8888 5062

If you need more information about stem cell treatment, feel free to contact us.


3. Regena Healthcare Network


Regena was established in Malaysia along with vigorous collaboration with both public and private higher educational institutes and research centers to advance the frontiers of knowledge and stimulate both innovation and economic growth. Regena now conducts its operations in Germany, China, South Korea, Malaysia, and Singapore.

Regena operates in Daehan Rehab Hospital, their partnered medical centre in Malaysia that specialises in the management of neurological disorders and illnesses, such as stroke, traumatic brain injury (TBI) and spinal cord injury (SCI) - ranging from acute to chronic stages – using comprehensive South Korean-style integrated rehabilitation methods.

Regena Healthcare (HQ - SEA): Lot 1243, Ground Floor, Unit B, Batu 4 Jalan Hulu Kelang, Mukim Ampang, 55000 Ampang, Selangor, Malaysia.

WhatsApp us for a Free Tele-Consultation: +60 11 - 8888 5062

4. 23 Century International Life Science Centre

Transfer of Biotechnology From China National Stemcell Bank to 23Century International Life Science Centre Malaysia since 2018. 

23 Century Group is a pioneer status high-tech corporate group major in cell manufacturing. The group's biotechnology partner, Beike Biotechnology Co. Ltd, has more than twenty years experience in the development of stem cell therapies and their associated clinical applications, holding 67 patents in China and internationally. 

With the advanced cell preparation expertise, 23 Century Group is currently the owner of a CGMP cell preparation laboratory in Malaysia. It will also be synchronised to more than 30 laboratories throughout China.

The group has jointly formed cooperation with more than 400 domestic and overseas research and medical institutions, published in more than 50 journals. Their aim is to promote health by providing hope and cell therapy to patients who suffer from diseases which are incurable from current clinical practices.

23 Century Group has various partner centres in Klang Valley.

WhatsApp us for a Free Tele-Consultation: +60 11 - 8888 5062

5. Cell Therapy Centre - UKM Medical Centre (UKM Stem Cell)

Address: 12th Floor, Clinical Block, Bandar Tun Razak, 56000 Cheras, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Cell Therapy Center is one of the Center of Excellence in UKM Medical Centre (UKMMC) which provides cell-based therapy including hematopoietic stem cells, lymphocytes, dendritic cells, mesenchymal stem cells and mononuclear cells to patients with blood cancers, bone marrow diseases and degenerative diseases. The Cell Therapy Centre has the aspiration to be among the world leaders in research and development (R&D) of cancer immunotherapy and regenerative medicine.

6. ALPS Medical Centre

Address: Menara See Hoy Chan, 02-03 and 02-04, 374, Jln Tun Razak, 50400 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

ALPS Medical Centre (ALPS) has established itself as a Signature Boutique Medical Centre of repute and preferred choice in Malaysia and in the region, providing quality and impeccable track record in Healthy Ageing, advanced Plastic, Reconstructive, Cosmetic, Aesthetics Medicine and Wellness services at affordable rates.


7. Kuala Lumpur Sports Medicine Centre (KLSMC) - KLSMC Stem Cells


Address: 7th Floor, Wisma Perintis, 47 Jalan Dungun, Damansara Heights, 50490 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

KLSMC Stem Cells Sdn. Bhd., a subsidiary of Kuala Lumpur Sports Medicine Centre, was established in 2005 specifically to spearhead the research on stem cells regenerative therapy in the musculoskeletal system. Following internationally recognized medical research ethics and protocols, a series of studies were undertaken culminating in 2007 with the beginning of the human pilot study.

Several clinical studies led by Dr. Saw Khay Yong (consultant orthopaedic surgeon and CEO) revealed a breakthrough discovery: in injecting the patient’s own blood stem cells, coupled with surgical intervention and physiotherapy, it was possible for patients to regenerate hyaline cartilage.

In early 2010, a US patent (patent no: US 8,377,432 B2: Method and composition for neochondrogenesis) was filed for the stem cell technology and it was granted in 2013.

8. Stem Cell Pantai Hospital Kuala Lumpur

Address: No. 8, Jalan Bukit Pantai 59100 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Dr. Reza Ng Ching Soong - Orthopedic Surgeon
Dr. Reza Ng is a tertiary provider of Shoulder and Knee surgery and care. His interests include biological healing and cartilage regeneration using stem cells. He is currently the Principal Investigator for an ongoing FDA trial on Cartilage Regeneration using Autologous Stem Cells and Hyaluronic Acid Injections.

Dr Malinee A. Thambyayah - Pediatric Neurologist
Her interests include Integrative Rehabilitation for Brain Injury Using Stem Cells, Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) and Nutritional Medicine.

Related: Pantai Hospital KL Doctor List

Is Stem Cell Therapy Legal in Malaysia?

According to The Star, Guidelines for cell and gene therapy products (CGTPs) issued by the Health Ministry will be enforced from 2021, says Dr Lee Boon Chye (Deputy Health Minister).

MACT (Malaysian Association for Cell Therapy) president Dr Lim Teck Onn said the effective use of stem cell for medical purposes was evidence-backed, but cell therapy might be controversial for aesthetic applications.

“The use of stem cell for genuine medical therapy has never really been an issue. There are data and proven trials and even US Food and Drug Administration-approved indications. The big problem however is its use in wellness, anti-aging and some beauty products. As an industry association, we have an obligation to make sure that companies involved in these activities do so responsibly and not take patients and consumers for a ride,” he said.

To download the Malaysian Guidelines for Cell and Gene Therapy Products (updated July 2021), please click here.


Mesenchymal Stem Cells

There are 3 main sources of mesenchymal stem cells.

Umbilical Cord - The umbilical cord itself is a rich source of stem cells, where its Wharton’s Jelly holds precious Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs). These stem cells have been found to be very promising as it has beneficial properties that Hematopoietic Stem Cells (HSCs) may have restrictions in. MSCs have the ability to differentiate into bone, heart, nerve, cornea, fat and cartilage cells, and has been used for repairs of these organs.

Bone Marrow - The bone marrow has been identified as one of the best sources of harvesting stem cells from adults, through Bone Marrow Aspiration (BMA). The BMA process is a low-risk, invasive procedure usually performed on the back of the hip bone. MSCs that reside in the spongy bone are extracted from the bone marrow, where the half-day procedure leaves a very small, negligible scar on the back. The MSCs are then brought back to the laboratory to be processed and expanded.

Adipose Tissue (fat tissue) - It has been found that adipose tissue (fat tissue) contains MSCs. These MSCs are ideally harvested during liposuction, where instead of discarding the fat collected, the fat is brought back to the laboratory for MSCs isolation and expansion. Although the adipose-derived MSCs are currently investigated to treat a multitude of diseases, they are particularly suited for cosmetic indications.

Stem Cell Therapy for Diabetes in Malaysia

Majority of stem cell research for diabetes is concentrated on Type 1 diabetes as it can be traced to the loss of a single cell type, the beta islet cell. Beta cells (β cells) are a type of cell found in pancreatic islets that produce and secrete insulin. In patients with type I or type II diabetes, beta-cell mass and function are diminished, leading to insufficient insulin secretion and high blood sugar.

Currently, two approaches are being used in research, using stem cells as beta-cell producing factories or as a beta cell repair catalyst. Both methods have the same goal which is to return the insulin to normal levels. Diabetes Research Institute (DRI) are running clinical trials and have a number of patients that are living insulin free for an average of 10 years after receiving a transplant of donor islet cells.

There are many ongoing efforts to understand how stem cell therapy is able to help people with diabetes. One of the main centres is the California Institute of Regenerative Medicine, where you can view the areas of research being conducted specifically to understand diabetes.

For a list of stem cell therapy clinics for diabetes, check out Stem Cell Therapy for Diabetes in Malaysia.

Stem Cell Treatment for Knees in Malaysia

How Stem Cells might help in Treatment for Knee Pain?
  • Repair and regenerate the damaged bone and cartilage as stem cells have the ability to differentiate into osteoblasts and chondrocytes.
  • Possess anti-inflammatory ability, thus reduce inflammatory responses caused by physical damages.
  • Improve joint functions and crepitus condition, thus reducing pain.
For list of stem cell therapy clinics for knee pain or cartilage regeneration, check out Stem Cell Treatment for Knees in Malaysia.

Stem Cell Treatment for Autism in Malaysia

Stem cell therapy for autism in Malaysia is an ongoing topic of research and is considered experimental by the medical community in Malaysia. Parents can find fee-for-service clinics that advertise stem cell therapy for autism in Malaysia, but most of these clinics promote their own approach, which creates a lot of confusion among parents about how to compare their treatment options.

For list of stem cell therapy clinics for autism, check out Stem Cell Treatment for Autism in Malaysia.


Stem Cell Treatment for Other Conditions

Although most of the conditions are ongoing topics for research (where the current medical treatment protocols have been exhausted), many stem cell centres do offer treatment for the following conditions: Anti-aging, Ataxia, Stroke, Kidney FailureLiver Failure, Muscular Dystrophy, Motor Neuron Diseases, Cerebral Palsy, Multiple Sclerosis, Optic Nerve Hypoplasia (ONH), Septo-Optic Dysplasia (SOD), Optic Nerve Atrophy, Spina Bifida, Spinal Cord Injury, Spinal Muscular Atrophy, Low Back Pain, Traumatic Brain Injury.


Oral Stem Cell Supplements?

There are many fraudulent "oral stem cells" products being sold with amazing claims, but devoid of any clinical data to support them. These products are similar to other health supplement scams and often have testimonials from people who claim to "feel better" or "look younger," but these improvements are likely due to the placebo effect or delusions.

Scientific evidence does not support the idea that oral stem cell supplements contain live stem cells. When stem cells are consumed orally, they are broken down by the enzymes in the gastrointestinal tract and digested like any other type of meat or animal cells. As a result, there are no unique benefits to consuming stem cells orally beyond the nutritional value of eating meat. To reach their intended target sites, stem cells need to be injected or infused, such as through intravenous administration, to bypass the digestive system.

However, doctors may prescribe oral supplements to support stem cell therapy. It's important not to confuse these supplements with "oral stem cell supplements" that claim to contain live stem cells. As mentioned above, live stem cells need to be injected to avoid the digestive process in the stomach.


Wrapping It Up

So, here you are. The best stem cell therapy clinics in Malaysia. If there are any major stem cell therapy clinics that we’ve missed, please let us know in the comments!


If you are in doubt about which stem cell therapy centre to go, please feel free to WhatsApp us for a Free Tele-Consultation: +60 11 - 8888 5062.


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