Advancing Clinical Trial Ecosystem in Indonesia: Signing First Agreement between Equilab International and Clinical Research Unit of National Brain Center Hospital (RS PON Prof. Dr. dr. Mahar Mardjono

To strengthen Indonesia's position in the global research ecosystem, Equilab International as the Indonesian Contract Research Organization (CRO), has formalized the first strategic collaboration with the Clinical Research Unit (CRU) in National Brain Center Hospital (also known well as RS PON). This partnership synergizes the clinical operations capabilities and advanced laboratory analysis of both institutions to facilitate high-quality clinical research in Indonesia.

For the first collaboration, Equilab and RS PON are conducting a clinical trial of diabetes drug based on glucagon-like Peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists, specifically semaglutide. As the demand for these metabolic regulators surges globally, global sponsors require an Indonesian CRO to manage the clinical operations and also to handle the advanced central laboratory for complex dosage forms. Equilab International has firmly positioned itself to address this critical need, standing as a premier Indonesian CRO equipped to execute these high-complexity studies.

During his speech in the ceremony, Mr. Ronal Simanjuntak, President Director of Equilab International, stated, "The transition from small molecules to peptide-based biologics requires a strong clinical operation and bioanalytical precision. Supported by the complete facilities, RS PON has the capability to conduct the clinical operation for complex study. Furthermore, our collaboration with the RS PON establishes a synergistic framework to drive innovative drug trials, ultimately expediting patient access to vital therapeutic interventions.”

This agreement marks a transformative milestone for RS PON, enhancing its capacity to manage industry-sponsored clinical trial Indonesia projects. dr. Adin Nulkhasanah Sp.S, MARS, President Director of RS PON, commented on this development: "Initiating our CRU’s first industry-sponsored clinical trial with Equilab as the Indonesian CRO, we are not only contributing to the advancement of metabolic therapies but also maximizing our facility’s capacity to expand the volume of clinical research conducted within Indonesia."

Ultimately, this collaboration underscores a broader objective for the national research infrastructure. Through sustained partnerships with premier institutions such as RS PON, Equilab International remains dedicated to strengthening Indonesia’s competitive standing in global clinical research, particularly regarding the development of innovative pharmaceutical drugs.