Cancer remains a formidable global health challenge, claiming millions of lives annually. Early detection and innovative treatments are critical to improving survival rates, yet access to these cutting-edge solutions remains limited for many.
Enter Stemcell First Group, a healthcare pioneer transforming cancer treatment and prevention in South East Asia through its focus on immunotherapy, gene therapy, and regenerative medicine.
Founded in 2016 by Richard Lim, Stemcell First Group emerged from a deeply personal journey. Richard’s experience navigating cancer care for his son inspired the establishment of a company committed to innovative, compassionate, and accessible healthcare.
“Stemcell First was created to support families facing the challenges of cancer,” he explains. “It’s built on trust, compassion, and a commitment to helping people live healthier and fuller lives despite very trying circumstances.”
This ethos is embedded in every aspect of the group’s operations, from cutting-edge treatments to its focus on prevention through early detection.
Revolutionising Cancer Detection and Care
A cornerstone of the group’s efforts is its Multiple Cancer Early Detection (MCED) screening, available across its clinics in Malaysia and Thailand. This diagnostic tool identifies a range of cancers, including breast, lung, colorectal, pancreatic, prostate, stomach, oesophageal, liver and uterine cancers, often before symptoms appear.
Stemcell First Group’s chief operating officer, Allen Law, emphasises that “early detection is the key to saving lives.”
Allen explained, “Our MCED screening service ensures that patients have the chance to address cancer risks earlier before they become life-threatening and provide applicable solution to mitigate the risk, aligning with our mission to bring advanced care closer to home.”
In addition to screening, the group offers advanced treatments like CAR-T cell therapy, a revolutionary approach targeting cancers such as leukaemia, lymphoma, myeloma, pancreatic cancer, ovarian cancer, melanoma, sarcoma, colorectal cancer, bladder cancer, peritoneal and pleural cancers, nasopharyngeal cancer (NPC), EGFR lunch cancer, and cervical cancer.
These therapies are delivered through state-of-the-art facilities like the Vanfo Hino Ambulatory Care Centre (ACC) in Johor Bahru – an Advanced Cell and Gene Therapy Centre, which will also house the region’s upcoming cutting-edge laboratory.
Making Innovative Treatments Accessible
For many, accessing advanced cancer treatments has historically meant travelling abroad at significant financial and emotional costs. Stemcell First aims to change this by bringing world-class care closer to home.
“Our goal is to assuage their fears by easing their suffering. By introducing therapies that were once out of reach, we are ensuring patients have access to world-class treatments and the support they need for better outcomes through tried and tested means and by making informed patient care decisions when implementing regenerative treatments,” said Allen.
In addition to cancer therapies, Stemcell First leverages advanced gene therapy to treat a range of genetic conditions, including spinal muscular atrophy and beta-thalassemia. These treatments exemplify the group’s commitment towards addressing diverse healthcare challenges through innovative implementations of the latest in medical innovation as readily available options.
“Our focus on trust and innovation is what sets us apart,” said Law. “We’re building relationships, advancing science, and ensuring that every patient feels supported and cared for.”
Looking ahead, Stemcell First Group is poised for regional expansion, with plans to enter the Indonesian market and launch a new laboratory at the Vanfo Hino ACC in Johor Bahru by the end of 2025. The group’s vision goes beyond providing treatment—it aims to foster a culture of early screening and proactive healthcare.
Reflecting Stemcell First’s holistic approach to healthcare, the group’s Masayo Clinics in Kuala Lumpur and Johor Bahru in Malaysia, and the SCF Clinic in Bangkok, Thailand also offer services in regenerative medicine and aesthetic care.
“At Stemcell First, we are committed to the patient first before we embark on redefining healthcare,” Richard states. “Our journey is just beginning, and we are excited to continue bringing hope, healing, and innovative medical solutions to the different communities we serve in the present and in the near future.” 
