The novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has impacted global economies. These disruptions, also experienced by the global industry-sponsored research (ISR) industry, required new guidelines and standard operating procedures to be put in place to protect both staff and patients involved in clinical research. Aina Farhana et al at Clinical Research Malaysia, highlight the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the actions put in place by CRM in managing ISRs in Malaysia.