Australian-based company, Peeq Telecommunications Limited, hopes to develop a new treatment for diabetic ulcers and ailments of similar nature in Samoa. 

This is according to the company's Executive Trustee, Graham Liao, during an interview with Samoa Observer. 

Mr. Liao said he is working with the Samoan government on the project and are in the process of finalising government's approval. 

He initially came to Samoa to setup air freight services but discovered that Samoan people had "very good" spoken English, which led to him moving their company’s call center to Samoa.

“The greatest gift I have had in business is the new treatment my company has developed for diabetic ulcers and other ailments of similar nature. 

“With assistance of Asomua Epenesa Pouesi Young, we treated several diabetic ulcers and bedsores in Samoa and have had great results. 

"We also treated a man’s hands at the request of Tuatagaloa Joe Annandale, owner of Sinalei Reef Resort, and after two days he had relief for the first time in a long frustrating journey."

Mr. Liao added their next phase two of studies will look at the most effective dose, method of delivery, the appropriate dosing interval, and kill rate and to reconfirm product safety.

“Upon the completion of phase two we will then commence phase three which is human trials and hope to do this in Samoa. 

“Once completed we will seek approval from the Food and Drug Administration, Therapeutic Goods Administration, European Medicines Agency and the Chinese Food and Drug Administration that is under the Ministry of Health.

“Peeq will also be relocating our research and development from China to Samoa. Our company is a diverse group of companies that provides products and services that are utilised.”

Tautua Hunt from Saaga, Siumu, was one of the people who underwent the treatment developed by Peeq, a month ago.

The father of six said exposure to some chemicals led to his hands having a bad condition and that was also the diagnosis from local doctors.

“I had the condition for four years, with medication prescribed from the doctor he was able to cure it but it started to happen frequently it comes and goes.

“When I had this ailment it was hard for me to sleep and it was very itchy,” he said.

The 53-year-old said he was able to find relief when his employer, Tuatagaloa, sought help from his Australian friend who came to Samoa and had experienced the same problem.

“Tuatagaloa’s friend gave me simple instructions: I was told to put on a glove on my affected left hand and they had to squeeze inside the medicine (felt like a cream) - was told to leave the glove on with the medicine for two days and after two days I can take it off but they also warned that if I can feel that it’s hot than I can take the glove off.

“I was amazed when my hand had completely healed which was such a relief,” he added. 

When the Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry of Health, Leausa Dr. Take Naseri was contacted for a comment he said he will look into the matter.