KUALA LUMPUR – Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has underscored that the true measure of a nation’s greatness lies not only in its economic achievements but also in the strength of its education and healthcare systems.
Speaking at the official launch of IJN University College at the National Heart Institute (IJN), Anwar said that a great country is one that is “knowledgeable, humane and full of compassion,” ensuring that no citizen is excluded from access to quality education and medical treatment.
He explained that the government has placed education and health as the two main pillars in the national budget, reflecting their central role in Malaysia’s transformation and development agenda. These sectors, he said, are vital to building a society that is both progressive and inclusive.
“The greatness of a country is not only measured by its economic progress, but also by the quality of education and its superior health system,” Anwar stated, adding that compassion and inclusivity must remain at the heart of national progress.
The Prime Minister highlighted the establishment of IJN University College as a symbol of synergy between Malaysia’s educational and medical expertise.
The institution, he noted, will nurture a new generation of healthcare professionals who are not only highly skilled but also guided by empathy and compassion in serving the people.
The launch of the university college marks a milestone in Malaysia’s efforts to strengthen its healthcare education ecosystem.
It is expected to provide specialised training in cardiovascular and thoracic sciences, while also expanding opportunities for research and innovation in medical fields.
Observers view the initiative as part of the government’s broader MADANI framework, which emphasises balanced development that integrates economic growth with ethical and humanitarian values.
Analysts suggest that by prioritising education and healthcare, Malaysia is positioning itself to address long-term challenges such as skills shortages, healthcare accessibility, and the need for innovation in medical technology.
The Prime Minister’s remarks also come at a time when global attention is increasingly focused on the resilience of healthcare systems and the importance of equitable access to education.
By investing in these areas, Malaysia aims to strengthen its human capital and ensure sustainable national progress.
Sources: IJN Press Release, Anwar Ibrahim FB Page
