PETALING JAYA, Malaysia, March 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Klinik Pakar Mata VISTA Eye Specialist (VISTA), a well-established name in eye care in Malaysia, continues to improve its cataract surgery services through collaborations with recognized ophthalmic technology providers such as Johnson & Johnson Surgical Vision (Johnson & Johnson) and Ziemer Ophthalmic Systems AG (Ziemer). These collaborations reaffirm VISTA’s commitment to investing in innovative technology, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), to support safe and effective patient care.

Cataract: A Leading Cause of Visual Impairment

Cataracts remain a common cause of vision loss worldwide, affecting millions annually. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 17% of people with cataract have received access to an appropriate intervention (WHO, 2023). While this condition is often associated with aging, genetics, diabetes, or prolonged UV exposure may contribute to its development.

Fortunately, cataract surgery has been shown to be safe and effective. However, individual outcomes may vary depending on pre-existing eye conditions and overall health. Patients are encouraged to consult with qualified eye specialists to determine their suitability for treatment.

For more than 25 years, VISTA has been providing comprehensive ophthalmic care, attracting patients from Malaysia and beyond, including Singapore, Indonesia, and Australia.

“Cataract surgery today is about precision, patient safety, and personalized care. By working with recognized partners like Johnson & Johnson and Ziemer, we can introduce advanced solutions, including AI-assisted technologies, to improve patient treatment options,” said Grace Heng, Chief Growth Officer of VISTA.

Advancing Cataract Surgery Through Technology

VISTA integrates advanced technology into cataract surgery, including:

• Johnson & Johnson’s VERITAS™ Vision System
• TECNIS PureSee™ Intraocular Lens – Patients should discuss with their doctor to determine the most suitable lens option for their needs.
• Ziemer Femtosecond Laser Technology

“Our goal is to combine modern surgical techniques, technological advancements, and patient-centered care. However, it is important for patients to understand that results can vary depending on individual eye health and other medical conditions,” added Dr. Aloysius Joseph Low, Founder and Medical Director of VISTA.

The Role of Partnerships in Cataract Surgery

In the evolving field of cataract surgery, partnerships with leading vision care companies play an essential role in:

• Providing Surgeons with Access to Modern Technology – Ensuring eye specialists have access to advanced surgical tools to support efficient and precise procedures.
• Enhancing Patient Safety—Modern cataract surgery techniques use minimally invasive approaches, which reduces recovery times for eligible patients.
• Supporting Continuous Medical Advancements – Ongoing research and innovation in ophthalmology enable continuous improvements in patient outcomes.

“Advancements in eye care depend on responsible innovation and the adoption of well-researched medical technologies. At VISTA, we aim to provide evidence-based treatments that align with international ophthalmic standards,” said Dr. Aloysius.

Recognition in Ophthalmic Care

VISTA’s contributions to eye care have been acknowledged through its inclusion in Newsweek Asia’s Top Private Hospitals 2025, as well as its recognition as a B Corp-certified organization for its commitment to sustainability and ethical medical practices.

Guiding Patients Towards Better Vision and Quality of Life

At the core of VISTA’s patient care philosophy is Ikigai—a principle that promotes living with clarity and purpose. VISTA helps patients restore their vision and maintain an active lifestyle by offering advanced cataract surgery options.

“While cataract surgery is widely performed, each patient’s journey is unique. Our role is to provide informed guidance, safe procedures, and high standards of patient care so individuals can make the best choices for their eye health,” said Grace Heng.

Looking Ahead: A Future of Innovation in Eye Care

VISTA remains dedicated to advancing eye care services in Malaysia by continuing investments in new technology, fostering industry collaborations, and prioritizing patient education. Patients considering cataract surgery are advised to seek professional medical consultations to determine their suitability for available treatment options.

On March 13, Deputy Minister of Finance Nguyen Duc Chi met with Nicola Beer, vice president of European Investment Bank (EIB), along with senior leaders from EIB at the Ministry of Finance headquarters in Hanoi.

The meeting overview. Photo: thoibaotaichinhvietnam.vn

The two sides discussed matters related to an MoU on financial support for achieving the goals of the Political Declaration on establishing the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP) with Vietnam. This MoU will provide the bedrock for both sides to commence negotiations for a framework agreement.

To date, the negotiations have not yet progressed because the EIB has not yet sent the necessary draft framework agreement.

The MoF has therefore suggested the EIB reconsider not specifying particular projects eligible for the €500 million funding. Instead, the framework agreement should only outline priority areas for the potential funding in the framework agreement, allowing EIB to complete the draft framework agreement earlier, paving the way for negotiation.

The deputy minister also requested that the EIB clarify the EU’s form of aid for projects to be funded by the EIB and provide specific lending terms.

Additionally, the deputy minister proposed that the EIB and Vietnam sign a new-generation official development assistance agreement with larger financial scale, more favourable interest rates, simplified procedures, and less stringent conditions.

During the meeting, Deputy Minister Chi declared Vietnam’s strong commitment to green transformation and energy transition.

EIB vice president Nicola Beer stated that as a leading global bank, EIB has forged financial cooperative relations with Vietnam since 1997, supporting infrastructure construction, environmental protection, and energy development in the country.

She stressed that with its ability to raise funds from EU countries and financial institutions, the EIB was willing to assist Vietnam through specific projects.

The EIB executive also proposed that Vietnam stimulate private businesses to participate in projects benefitting from the €500 million fund to achieve the goals set in the JETP Declaration.

Having already established a presence in Vietnam through its Ipsen consumer healthcare brand, Mayoly‘s new office in Ho Chi Minh City marks its official entry into the market. This office will play a key role as a strategic liaison point, capable of conducting in-depth market research and developing key partnerships in the country.

In Vietnam, healthcare needs are rapidly growing. Mayoly aims to strengthen its presence even further in the country with its broad portfolio of recognised solutions in digestive health, with flagship brands such as Smecta, Forlax, Fortrans, MeteoSpasmyl and Chophytol, as well as mental performance with Tanakan.

Additionally, Mayoly announced a partnership with the distributor Hoang Duc. This strategic partnership offers excellent opportunities for Mayoly to enrich its offerings with innovative and high-quality solutions for Vietnamese patients and consumers.

Emmanuel Paint, executive vice president of global sales said, “The extent of Mayoly’s international commercial network in Southeast Asia is a key asset for our development. In this region, we benefit from long-lasting experience, a newly incorporated representative office in Vietnam, and a commercial hub in Singapore.”

“Our strong and structured presence enables us to grow sustainably, and meet the needs of patients and consumers to contribute to the improvement of public health,” he said.

With sales of €560 million ($15.5 million) and growth of 5 per cent in 2024, Mayoly is present in 21 countries and its products are distributed in more than 100 countries around the world.