Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim reaffirmed Malaysia’s commitment to advancing healthcare integration and regulatory alignment within ASEAN, positioning the country as a leader in high-tech medical product manufacturing and healthcare innovation in the region.
Speaking at the closing ceremony of the International Medical Device Exhibition and Conference (IMDEC) 2024 in Kuala Lumpur today, Anwar highlighted the Ministry of Health’s (MoH) mandate to upgrade infrastructure, enhance workforce skills, and integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), and 5G technology into the healthcare system. This effort is backed by an allocation of RM45 billion under Budget 2025.
“With Malaysia set to chair ASEAN in 2025, we are fully committed to advancing the Mutual Recognition Arrangement (MRA) and spearheading efforts to create a more efficient and integrated regulatory framework in the region,” he said. “Our goal is not only to reduce market barriers for manufacturers but also to enhance access to safe and effective medical devices, ultimately improving patient care and strengthening healthcare systems across the region.”
Anwar underscored healthcare as a cornerstone for sustainable growth, alongside energy and digitalisation, as part of ASEAN’s strategic agenda. He emphasised that Malaysia’s chairmanship would focus on initiatives such as the ASEAN Energy Grid and advancing healthcare as a pillar under the New Industrial Master Plan.
The prime minister called for a paradigm shift within the MoH, urging a focus on digital transformation, greater transparency in procurement processes, and improved network connectivity.
The IMDEC 2024, held from 10 December at KLCC, drew over 600 international delegates and 10,000 visitors from across the healthcare sector, including manufacturers, regulators, academics, and innovators. Themed “Unleashing the Power of Medical Technology, Shaping the Future of Healthcare”, the event served as a platform for industry dialogue, knowledge sharing, and collaboration to tackle critical challenges and explore transformative healthcare technologies.
Anwar also lauded Malaysia’s role in hosting the 28th annual Global Harmonisation Working Party (GHWP) meeting, calling it a milestone that underscores the country’s strategic importance in regulatory excellence and cross-border collaboration.
“The need to stay abreast of global developments, adapt swiftly, and ensure key ministry players lead this paradigm shift cannot be overstated,” he said.
Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad and Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli were also in attendance at the event.
