KUALA LUMPUR – The government is reviewing the current healthcare financing model with a view to long-term reforms aimed at creating a system that is more sustainable, inclusive, and effective, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said today.
In a Facebook post, Anwar said the matter was discussed during the 8th meeting of the Malaysian Social Protection Council (MySPC) 2025, which he chaired this morning.
The session was attended by six Cabinet ministers and senior government officials.
He said that good governance, transparent procurement, and strong implementation mechanisms will be key to the reform process, with coordinated efforts needed across ministries — particularly Economy Ministry and Finance Ministry.
“The meeting focused on the phased roadmap and transformation initiatives for the healthcare financing system, including the proposal to establish a National Health Fund,” he said.
The Economy Ministry also presented the National Ageing Action Framework 2025–2045.
“I acknowledge the early measures being undertaken, particularly the need for a comprehensive, cross-ministerial governance mechanism to ensure a more integrated response,” Anwar added.
The reform agenda is part of the Health White Paper, which outlines Malaysia’s long-term strategy to strengthen its healthcare system.
Earlier this year, public concerns about the rising cost of private healthcare and insurance were raised during a Public Accounts Committee (PAC) hearing.
The session brought together patients, NGOs, medical professionals, and insurance agents to discuss challenges such as inflated hospital charges, non-transparent billing, and limited regulatory oversight.
Participants called for stronger consumer protection, tighter regulations on medical fees, and greater transparency from insurers and healthcare providers.
PAC chairman Datuk Mas Ermieyati Samsudin urged members of the public to share their experiences, saying, “First-person accounts are crucial for Parliament to take action.” – May 6, 2025