In a bold move aimed at bolstering the healthcare workforce in Johor, Gleneagles Hospital Johor (GHJ) has proudly announced its commitment to sponsoring students pursuing a Diploma in Nursing at the Institute of Science and Technology Darul Takzim (INSTEDT).
This initiative marks a pivotal moment in the region’s healthcare landscape, underlining GHJ’s dedication to healthcare sustainability by nurturing young talents within the industry. The partnership between GHJ and INSTEDT signifies a collaborative effort to address the pressing need for skilled healthcare professionals.
Through a memorandum of understanding (MoU), both institutions have solidified their commitment to education and on-the-job training, particularly in nursing — a field forecasted to face a shortfall of around 8,000 professionals by 2024. With healthcare institutions experiencing a surge in demand for experienced nurses, GHJ aims to inspire a new wave of individuals to pursue nursing studies through this initiative.
During the recent MoU signing ceremony, Gleneagles Hospital Johor chief executive officer Dr Kamal Amzan, who is also IHH Healthcare Berhad (IHH) Malaysia’s regional chief executive officer for its southern and eastern hospitals, shared the hospital’s vision.
“Our aim is to empower students to excel in their studies and make significant contributions to the community while addressing the nationwide issue of inadequate nursing staff.
“As we embark on this journey towards a more sustainable healthcare future, we invite other industry players to join us in nurturing young talents, ensuring accessibility and sustainability in Malaysia’s healthcare sector.
“This effort is to also ensure that healthcare remains accessible, equitable, in a bid to make it sustainable for Johoreans and Malaysians.”
GHJ’s investment in more than 100 students over the next three years covers not only their education fees, but also a monthly allowance and medical coverage.
The first cohort of 40 students is poised to graduate by the end of 2025, with guaranteed employment opportunities within the IHH Healthcare Group — a testament to GHJ’s commitment to fostering career advancement. Moreover, GHJ has partnered with INSTEDT to offer internship opportunities within the hospital, ensuring students receive practical training and valuable experience in the dynamic healthcare environment.
INSTEDT chief executive officer Datin Hariza Hashim emphasised the significance of addressing the shortage of healthcare professionals in both private and public sectors.
She highlighted GHJ’s sponsorship initiative as a pivotal step in meeting this challenge and ensuring a steady supply of trained professionals for Malaysia’s healthcare future.
Beyond INSTEDT, GHJ’s sponsorship programme also extends to higher education institutions nationwide, reinforcing its commitment to addressing the nursing shortage across Malaysia.
Dr Kamal reiterated that collaboration among healthcare organisations is essential for the industry’s growth, accessibility, and sustainability in Johor and beyond.
As GHJ spearheads talent development and strengthens Malaysia’s healthcare system, it paves the way towards a brighter, more accessible healthcare future for everyone.