Partnerships Key To Expanding Rural Healthcare Access - Fadillah

KUCHING, Nov 1 (Bernama) -- A strong partnership between the public and private sectors is essential in expanding healthcare access to rural communities, said Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof.

He said such collaboration would not only bridge the urban-rural healthcare divide but also ensure that every Malaysian, regardless of location, has equitable access to quality medical services.

Fadillah said the public sector and government agencies must strengthen the digital healthcare ecosystem from data governance and cybersecurity to research, innovation and infrastructure.

“Make digital health part of our public service, ensuring that telemedicine, artificial intelligence (AI) and data systems are seamlessly integrated into our national healthcare framework.

“Healthcare professionals and industry players must adopt and champion innovations to make healthcare faster, more inclusive and more efficient, using technology to reach more patients, reduce waiting times and enhance quality of care in both rural and urban settings,” he said.

He said this in his speech during the launching ceremony of ‘Two New Digital Healthcare Initiatives’ by CelcomDigi and UNIMAS Teaching Hospital here today.

Meanwhile, Fadillah said healthcare has always been a key pillar of Malaysia’s development and the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) calls for reforms to ensure equitable access to quality and affordable healthcare.

He said over RM40 billion has been allocated for 2026 to 2030, focusing on expanding medical services, upgrading public health facilities and driving digital transformation.

“Most recently, under Budget 2026, the Government allocated RM46.5 billion to the Ministry of Health, the largest in our history with emphasis on digitalising health services, upgrading rural facilities and strengthening medical infrastructure nationwide.

“All these efforts share one goal - to ensure every Malaysian, from Kuala Lumpur to Kapit, has access to quality healthcare anytime, anywhere,” he added.

-- BERNAMA