KUALA LUMPUR: The Health Ministry is committed to advocating for sustainable practices within the healthcare system, aligning with the ethos of the Madani government.
Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad said this commitment includes addressing the social determinants of health, reducing waste, and promoting green technology to protect environmental, social, and personal health in the future.
"As healthcare practitioners, we are not only caretakers of individual health, but also stewards of the planet.
"The next frontier in healthcare must be one where we align our practices with the principles of sustainability and stewardship," he said in his speech at the launch of Malaysia International Healthcare (MIH) Megatrends 2024.
The event was officiated by His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, the King of Malaysia.
Also present were Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil, Deputy Health Minister Datuk Lukanisman Awang Sauni, the ministry's secretary-general Datuk Seri Suriani Ahmad, Health director-general Datuk Dr Muhammad Radzi Abu Hassan, and KPJ Healthcare Bhd chairman Tan Sri Dr Ismail Bakar.
In his speech, Dr Dzulkefly highlighted that as Malaysia advances in healthcare, there must be an emphasis on patient-centred care.
"Today's patients are more informed and empowered than ever before. They seek not only treatment but also a partnership in their health journey.
"The future of healthcare lies in fostering these partnerships, where patients are active participants in their care.
"Our digital health transformation must serve our primary objective of patient centricity, and a sustainable digital health ecosystem must lead towards achieving 'One Citizen One Record from Womb to Tomb.'"
Dr Dzulkefly added that another significant aspect of healthcare's future is a shift towards preventive care.
"Traditionally, our focus has been reactive and curative, treating diseases after they manifest. However, as we look ahead, there is a growing recognition that prevention is key to improving health outcomes and reducing costs.
"The future of healthcare... it's health first, then care."
Themed 'Healthcare: The Next Frontier', the three-day event has gathered about 3,000 healthcare industry players.
Organised by the Health Ministry in collaboration with KPJ Healthcare and supported by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission, the event showcases the latest advancements and trends shaping the future of healthcare.