The Health Ministry has appointed Datuk Dr Muhammad Radzi Abu Hassan as the new health director-general, a statement issued by Health Minister Dr Zaliha Mustafa said.
Dr Radzi’s appointment took effect on April 21.
“His appointment is based upon his extensive experience and qualifications in the area of public health as the deputy health director-general (research and technical support),” Dr Zaliha said.
Dr Radzi, who had been one of former director-general Tan Sri Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah’s three deputies, has experience serving as Kedah’s chief medical coordinator and the state’s Clinical Research Centre head.
He also held the medical department chief post at Hospital Sultanah Bahiyah in Kedah.
“Dr Radzi was also appointed head of services for gastroenterology and hepatology, and became chairman for the accreditation board for this field of medicine from 2013 to 2021.
“I believe with his experience, knowledge, skills and credibility, Dr Radzi is able to provide the best and would become a team player in reforming the public health service,” Dr Zaliha said.
Dr Noor Hisham retired from office on April 21 after serving the Health Ministry for 35 years. He had been director-general since 2013, and deputy before that since 2008. He was thrust into the spotlight during the country’s fight against Covid-19.
Besides Radzi, two other deputy director-generals available for the top post were Datuk Dr Asmayani Khalib (medical) and Datuk Dr Norhayati Rusli (public health).
