IPOH: Universiti Kuala Lumpur Royal College of Medicine Perak (Royal College) must have its own teaching hospital, says Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi (pic).
“Looking at the rapid progress of the Royal College, I am confident that one day a teaching hospital will take shape,” said the Deputy Prime Minister in his speech at the Royal College’s 25th anniversary celebration on Thursday (Aug 28).
The event was graced by Sultan of Perak Sultan Nazrin Shah.
Perak Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad, Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir, Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad, and Royal College’s chairman Datuk Dr Afifi al-Akiti, were also present.
Ahmad Zahid said that the Royal College was established on Feb 18, 1999, with the consent and vision of the late Sultan Azlan Shah.
“It continues to uphold the quality of teaching, an internationally benchmarked curriculum, and the strength of its academic staff. As a result, 10,950 graduates have been successfully produced.
“This is proof of the success of an educational institution under the royal patronage,” he added.
Ahmad Zahid urged the Higher Education Ministry to raise the MBBS intake quota at the Royal College by at least 250 students, up from the current 150, in support of the government’s aspiration to boost the number of doctors and strengthen healthcare frontliners.
“The gracious presence of the Perak Ruler evokes cherished memories, especially as the establishment itself was an inspiration of the late Sultan Azlan Shah in the earlier years,” he said.
