Page 4 - NIH Bulletin Vol. 21: January - June 2023 NIH Way Forward

Message from
Message fr om
TH
MINISTER OF HEAL
MINISTER OF HEALTH

• • • • • •

It is with great pleasure that I present this foreword for the esteemed Bulletin National Institutes
of Health (NIH). This publication serves as a testament to the Ministry of Health unwavering
commitment in spearheading the advancement through research and innovation.
Our vision for the Ministry of Health, and indeed the wider healthcare landscape of Malaysia,
transcends the mere betterment of medical treatment. We are aiming for a holistic
transformation of the entire healthcare ecosystem to ensure better working conditions for
our health workers, to improve healthcare accessibility, to focus on preventive care, and to
embrace of digital revolution.
At the heart of our transformation efforts is the Health White Paper. Tabled in Parliament
in June 2023, it serves as our roadmap to a more robust, equitable, and sustainable health
system. This document outlines our ambitious yet achievable goals in Malaysia, considering
the needs and welfare of all Malaysians while emphasizing on public health protection.
As we pursue these multifaceted reforms, I would like to underline the role of the National
Institutes of Health (NIH) in our healthcare transformation journey. The National Institutes of
Health stand as a beacon of research excellence and innovation in healthcare. Since its
establishment, NIH has been at the forefront of cutting-edge research, providing vital
contributions to medical science, and fostering advancements in public health.
The institute’s unwavering commitments to the pursuit of knowledge and its
relentless efforts in healthcare services have made it a pillar of strength in our
healthcare system.
In addition to its research endeavours, NIH plays a pivotal role in capacity
building and training the next generation of healthcare professionals.
The institute’s dedication to nurturing talented researchers, clinicians,
and scientists has resulted in a pool of exceptional individuals who are
equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to tackle complex
healthcare issues.
Furthermore, the National Institutes of Health actively collaborates
with international organizations, research institutions, and industry
partners, forging invaluable partnerships that facilitate knowledge
exchange, technology transfer, and the implementation of best
practices. These collaborations amplify the impact of NIH’s
research and enable the institute to stay at the forefront of medical
advancements.
I am also pleased to acknowledge NIH’s vital role in shaping
health policies and contributing to evidence-based decision-
making processes. The institute’s research findings and
recommendations directly impact the policy formulation,
ensuring that our healthcare system remains responsive to the
evolving needs for our population.
As we navigate the challenges posed by the global pandemic,
the significance of the National Institutes of Health becomes even
more apparent. The institute has been instrumental in spearheading
research efforts related to COVID-19, providing crucial insights into the
virus, diagnostics, therapeutics, and vaccines. NIH’s tireless work has been
pivotal in safeguarding the health and well-being of our citizens.
In conclusion, the National Institutes of Health are invaluable asset to
our nation. Their dedication, expertise, and unwavering commitment to
advancing healthcare have yielded immense benefits, and their contributions
to medical research, capacity building, policy formulation, and international
collaborations are truly commendable.
I extend my deepest appreciation to the dedicated professionals at the
National Institutes of Health, whose tireless efforts continue to shape the
future of healthcare in Malaysia. Together, we will build a healthier and
more prosperous nation for all.

DR. ZALIHA MUSTAFA
Minister of Health, Malaysia