Alpro Pharmacy Sdn Bhd recognised for healthcare accessibility efforts at Retail Asia Awards 2026

The company screened 44,000 Malaysians for Vitamin D deficiency and delivered RM6.8m in savings for cancer patients.

Alpro Pharmacy Sdn Bhd received the ESG Initiative of the Year - Malaysia and Retail Product of the Year - Malaysia accolades at the Retail Asia Awards 2026 for programmes focused on preventive healthcare access and cancer treatment support in Malaysia.

Expanding access to Vitamin D screening

Project D was introduced to make Vitamin D screening more accessible through Alpro Pharmacy’s nationwide pharmacy network. Launched in August 2025, the programme reduced the cost of Vitamin D testing to RM1 for high-risk individuals through the use of lab-grade immunofluorescence assay devices installed across its outlets.

The initiative addressed gaps in affordability and accessibility, as laboratory testing previously can cost up to RM140 per test. Alpro Pharmacy invested RM1.6m in the rollout, covering subsidised tests and screening equipment deployment nationwide.

During the initial rollout period, 44,267 individuals underwent screening, with 68% identified as Vitamin D deficient. Following pharmacist consultation, 72% of screened individuals began supplementation programmes. The project also increased customer visits and repeat purchases in the Vitamin D category across participating outlets.

Academic collaborations formed part of the programme’s expansion. Alpro Pharmacy worked with International Medical University and Universiti Teknologi MARA on studies related to Vitamin D deficiency and fall risks amongst elderly populations. Alpro Pharmacy also collaborated with MyFalls Society to develop educational materials focused on fall prevention.

Supporting cancer patients through community pharmacies

OncoHelp was developed as a pharmacy-embedded cancer patient navigation initiative that connected patients with a zero-mark-up medication sourcing support, referral coordination, financial assistance guidance, and treatment counselling through Alpro Pharmacy’s retail network.

Between 2023 and 2025, the programme supported 1,344 cancer cases and generated RM6,837,815 in cumulative savings for patients and caregivers. In 2025 alone, 562 cancer cases received assistance, accounting for RM2,859,676 in patient savings.

The initiative also connected patients with instalment payment options through banking partners to help families manage long-term treatment costs. Flexible medication collection arrangements across all Alpro Pharmacy outlets and reduced logistical challenges for patients undergoing treatment in different locations nationwide in Malaysia. 

The Retail Asia Awards highlights the pinnacle of excellence, innovation, and leadership within the retail industry across the Asia Pacific region. It serves as a benchmark of success, honouring companies and individuals who have made remarkable contributions to shaping the future of retail.

The Retail Asia Awards is presented by Retail Asia Magazine. To view the full list of winners, click here. If you want to join the 2027 awards programme and be acclaimed for your company's exceptional products or initiatives in the Retail industry, please contact Marni Marco at [email protected].