Making healthcare better and more accessible

PUTRAJAYA: Malaysia is focusing on availability, accessibility and the quality of healthcare through infrastructure development, says Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad (pic).

The Health Minister said in a joint World Health Day statement with WHO Representative for Malaysia, Brunei and Singapore Dr Rabindra Abeyasinghe that while Malaysia has made strides, there were barriers that still needed addressing.

The two added that the health outcome disparities that persist have been made worse by the recent Covid-19 pandemic.

"Prioritising the right to health requires collective efforts to address inequalities and enhanced preparedness for future emergencies," they said.

Both said that as Malaysia navigated post-pandemic recovery and implemented the reforms proposed in the Health White Paper, it was the government's priority to advance universal healthcare and thereby health equity.

"This is being done through putting the right to health at the centre of the government's efforts."

Both then said that collaborative efforts with stakeholders and commitment to universal health coverage were essential for achieving health equity and proactive healthcare management.

On this, Dr Dzulkefly said that Malaysia has also implemented comprehensive health education programmes aimed at promoting preventive healthcare practices and raising awareness about the importance of seeking timely medical care.

He said that by empowering individuals with knowledge and skills to manage their health proactively, Malaysia was not only addressing existing health disparities but also laying the foundation for a healthier future generation.

He then said that the Madani government was committed to partnering with various stakeholders including policymakers, healthcare providers, civil society organisations, and the private sector.

"As we celebrate World Health Day, we must reaffirm our unwavering commitment to the right to health for all regardless of their socioeconomic status, geographical location, or any other barriers they may face," he said.

"In Malaysia, like many parts of the world, access to quality healthcare has become more crucial than ever," both added in the statement.

They said that the “My health, my right” theme for this year’s World Health Day emphasises the importance of ensuring that every individual has the right to access health services, education, safe drinking water, clean air, adequate nutrition, safe housing, proper working and environmental conditions, and freedom from discrimination.