The collective efforts of over 270,000 dedicated healthcare professionals have transformed Malaysia’s healthcare system into one that is equitable, efficient and globally recognised. —AZMAN GHANI/The Star
Highlighting transformational leadership and systemic reforms
UNDER the leadership of Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad, the Health Ministry (MOH) achieved remarkable milestones in 2024.
These accomplishments are the collective efforts of over 270,000 dedicated healthcare professionals, working together to transform Malaysia’s healthcare system into one that is equitable, efficient and globally recognised.
Legislative and policy reforms
The Ministry undertook significant legislative and policy changes to strengthen governance and ensure the healthcare system remains adaptable to emerging challenges.
The enforcement of the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024 (Act 852) introduced comprehensive tobacco control measures.
Amendments to the Medical Act 1971 (Act 50) enhanced medical specialisation pathways and governance, which is fundamental to addressing the shortage of medical specialists in Malaysia.
Updates to the Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases Act 1988 (Act 342) improved the nation’s preparedness for infectious disease threats like monkeypox and human metapneumovirus.
Additional reforms included the National Food Safety Policy 2.0, which updated food safety standards, and the National Health Literacy Policy, aimed at empowering communities through improved health education.
The Ministry also implemented a “from womb to tomb” overhaul of health policies, ensuring that healthcare delivery across all stages of life is efficient, effective and equitable.
Human resource service reforms
The Ministry prioritised the welfare and development of healthcare professionals, addressing workforce challenges and building capacity for the future.
Deputy director-general positions were established for dental, pharmacy and food safety programmes, enhancing leadership and oversight.
To stabilise the workforce, 3,950 contract medical, dental and pharmacy officers were absorbed into permanent positions, while new roles and positions were created to meet growing demands.
The budget for specialist training doubled to RM152.4mil, reinforcing Malaysia’s medical expertise development ecosystem. Welfare improvements included increased allowances, on-call incentives and salary adjustments under the Public Service Remuneration System, which aim to retain talent and boost morale.
The Ministry prioritised modernising healthcare services to enhance accessibility for Malaysians. — RAJA FAISAL HISHAN/The Star.
Healthcare services transformation
The Ministry focused on modernising healthcare delivery to ensure better accessibility and efficiency.
Through the Hospital Services Outsourcing Programme – an initiative under the ProtectHealth Corporation as the strategic purchaser – waiting times for key procedures were significantly reduced.
For example, the waiting time for arteriovenous fistula surgery decreased from 16 weeks to four weeks, and MRI and ultrasound procedures were expedited from 20 weeks to 16 weeks. Over 22,773 cases were outsourced to 94 private hospitals, supported by an RM66.5mil allocation.
Digital transformation initiatives included the implementation of electronic medical records, which support lifetime health records, as well as the International Patient Summary via MySejahtera, Dental Information System and MyUBAT for pharmacy services.
Sustainability initiatives gained recognition, with facilities receiving accolades such as the Asean Energy Awards, Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design certifications and MyCREST standards.
These efforts resulted in energy savings of RM461mil and a cumulative reduction of 702 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions.
Public and community health prosperity
The Ministry launched various public health initiatives to promote healthier lifestyles and address critical health challenges.
The War on Sugar campaign was introduced as part of a strategic plan for 2024-2030 to reduce sugar consumption.
The TOBaTS (Tolak Ubat Tidak Sah) Campaign encouraged the rejection of unauthorised medicines, while the Medicine Price Display initiative promoted transparency in drug pricing.
Strategic plans targeted specific groups including the Elderly Healthcare Services Action Plan 2023-2030 to improve senior citizens’ access and awareness to quality care, and the Social Determinants of Health initiative to address inequities faced by indigenous communities.
Programmes to reinforce the first 1,000 days of life for Malaysian children were prioritised, focusing on nutrition and developmental health.
The BeBAS (Clean, Smoke-free) and BeSS (Clean, Safe and Healthy) recognition programmes further supported the creation of healthier environments.
Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad during the BeBAS (Clean, Smoke-free) premises walkabout in Puncak Alam, Kuala Lumpur in October last year. — RAJA FAISAL HISHAN/The Star.
Malaysia on the global health stage
Malaysia’s global leadership in healthcare was evident through its active participation in international forums and initiatives.
The Malaysia International Healthcare Megatrends 2024 conference positioned the nation as a leader in regional healthcare discourse.
The agenda to combat antimicrobial resistance, chaired by the Health Minister at the World Health Assembly (WHA), was adopted as a global priority by the United Nations General Assembly high-level meeting.
Meanwhile, the lung health resolution introduced at the World Cancer Congress – slated for further deliberation at WHA 2025 – reinforced Malaysia’s advocacy in critical health areas.
The 10th International Conference on Traditional and Complementary Medicine showcased Malaysia’s commitment to integrating traditional medicine within modern healthcare systems.
Clinical research milestones included five first-in-human clinical trials, placing Malaysia at the forefront of Asean for industry-sponsored research.
Additionally, Malaysia strengthened its role in digital health through partnerships with the Global Digital Health Partnership and the Global Digital Health Certification Network.
Continued advancement and infrastructure strengthening
Improving healthcare infrastructure remained a priority. The Ministry modernised or rebuilt 416 rural clinics, ensuring better access to healthcare for underserved populations.
Hospital infrastructure was expanded and new specialist services were introduced to reduce geographical disparities in healthcare delivery. Investments in state-of-the-art medical equipment further enhanced diagnostic accuracy and patient care.
Under the guidance of Dr Dzulkefly, Malaysia’s healthcare system is not only addressing current challenges but also setting benchmarks for future excellence. — CHAN TAK KONG/The Star.
Key metrics for 2024
The Ministry’s achievements are reflected in tangible outcomes. Medical tourism attracted 642,643 visitors in the first half of the year, contributing to a 22% revenue increase amounting to RM1.26bil.
Waiting times for key procedures were reduced by up to 75%, significantly enhancing patient satisfaction, and energy efficiency efforts resulted in savings equivalent to powering 100,000 households annually.
2024 in summary
The milestones achieved in 2024 reflect the Health Ministry’s commitment to systemic reform, innovation and global leadership.
Under the guidance of Dr Dzulkefly, Malaysia’s healthcare system is not only addressing current challenges but also setting benchmarks for future excellence.
These accomplishments mark a significant step toward a healthier, more equitable Malaysia, positioning the nation as a global leader in healthcare.
