Health Minister pledges to implement reforms, address acute problems in healthcare system

KUALA LUMPUR - Newly minted Health Minister Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad pledges to implement reforms and address acute problems in the healthcare system.

In an exclusive interview with Sinar Daily, Dzulkefly shared his plans and priorities for his tenure at the Ministry.

"I am truly humbled by the opportunity to serve as Health Minister and I am eager to realise my reforms and address the acute problems in the healthcare system.

"My focus will be on prevention, digital health transformation and health financial reform," he said when met at the Parliament, recently.

Dr Dzulkefly's return to the role of Health Minister was significant, having previously held the position from 2018 to 2020.

Previously, during his time in office, he led the country's initial Covid-19 response and implemented several key reforms, such as the ban on smoking in restaurants.

"I also aim to address the resource allocation and infrastructure challenges in the healthcare system, with a focus on public healthcare and preventive measures," he said.

As the Covid-19 cases continued to rise, Dr Dzulkefly remained unfazed and focused on his mission.

"I am not feeling pressured, as I anticipated this situation.

"We have briefed the Cabinet on the current situation and emphasised the importance of focusing on preventive measures, where all the basic measures are well-known among us," he added.