Singapore: To tap the increasing opportunities in the emerging markets across the globe, Zaluvida Corporate Sdn Bhd, a global investment company, announced that it had invested RM60 million in InQpharm Group Sdn Bhd this year, to foster its research and development for life science products in Malaysia.

Co-founder of Zaluvida, Ms Carin Beumer said the company increased its annual investment from RM50 million last year as it sees opportunities to continue developing and harnessing knowledge-based talent in the area of R&D in the life science industry.

Ms Beumer said the R&D team at InQpharm currently had more than 30 employees. She added that Zaluvida will continue to re-invest profits to develop the industry and create interesting jobs within the life sciences industry, in collaboration with the Malaysian government.

She mentioned that vibrant biotech industry of Malaysia and the young talent were a major reason to increase the investment. Touching on products, Ms Beumer said InQpharm offers natural therapeutics and alternative method in weight management and managing obesity for the Malaysian market.

Ms Beumer stressed that the demand for natural therapeutics have increased remarkably, as many consumers are turning to natural therapeutics as an alternative to pharmacological treatments for managing obesity and other major health concerns.