Latest news with #InstitutJantungNegara
The Sun
13 hours ago
- Business
- The Sun
Sabah blue economy set to generate RM3.25 billion annually from marine harvests
KOTA KINABALU: The Sabah Blue Economy is on track to generate RM3.25 billion annually from marine harvests, including fish and prawns, with an estimated output of 491,000 tonnes. Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor highlighted this as part of the state's broader blue economy strategy, which includes renewable ocean energy, blue carbon, tourism, and marine biotechnology. 'There is more to Blue Economy than just deep-sea harvesting,' Hajiji said in a speech read by Sabah Finance Minister Datuk Seri Masidi Manjun at the International Business Review (IBR) ASEAN Awards. He emphasized the potential of Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC), a renewable energy source that could generate 20,000MW of green energy along 500km of coastline. The state has also established the Blue Economy Industrial Park in Kudat, alongside new industrial parks in Kota Belud and Beaufort, to attract investments. Since September 2020, Sabah has secured RM17.41 billion in approved investments from 73 companies in the manufacturing sector, creating 3,636 jobs. Additional proposals worth RM42.3 billion are expected to generate 32,996 more jobs. A key development is the Commercial Collaborative Agreement with Petronas, granting Sabah greater participation in oil and gas, including stakes in the Samarang and Samur fields and a 25 per cent share in a US$3.1 billion floating LNG project in Sipitang. To support infrastructure needs, the Sabah Energy Roadmap and Master Plan 2040 aims to produce 700MW of energy within two years, while RM679.85 million has been allocated to address water shortages. At the IBR ASEAN Awards, Sabah was named the Most Outstanding State in Malaysia for 2024, with Negeri Sembilan taking the title of Most Progressive State. Other winners included Institut Jantung Negara and Clean Kinetics Pte Ltd for excellence in healthcare and renewable energy, respectively. - Bernama
Focus Malaysia
19-06-2025
- Health
- Focus Malaysia
Malaysians divided over privacy invasion after Health Minister posts Hadi Awang's post-op pics online
HEALTH Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad has come under fire for sharing details of Tan Sri Hadi Awang's post-op condition on social media. While paying a courtesy call on the PAS supremo who is recovering after a heart procedure at the National Heath Institute (IJN), the vice-president of Amanah – a splinter party of PAS – must have thought that he had done some goodwill by publicising his visit, Salam Malaysia MADANI ❤️🇲🇾❤️ AlhamdulilLah, saya berkesempatan untuk menziarah Tan Sri Tuan Guru Haji Abdul Hadi Awang yang kini sedang menerima rawatan di Institut Jantung Negara (IJN). Saya dimaklumkan bahawa walau pun prosedur yang kompleks, semuanya telah… — Dzulkefly Ahmad (@DrDzul) June 18, 2025 Not only did Dr Dzulkefly name the entire line-up of top-notch specialists dedicated to taking care of the 77-year-old seven-term Marang MP but there were also photos of the patient recuperating post-op. The Kuala Selangor MP who is a medical expert himself gladly reported that the heart procedure went well and that the revered Tok Guru is expected to make a full recovery. Nothing wrong, correct? Except that the MP for Marang's family were far from pleased with this bit of opportunistic propaganda. Keluarga Abdul Hadi Awang menyatakan rasa kesal dengan penyebaran gambar lawatan Menteri Kesihatan Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad yang menziarahi presiden PAS itu di Institut Jantung Negara (IJN), Kuala Lumpur, hari ini. Anaknya Muhammad Khalil berkata, pihaknya kecewa dengan sikap… — Malaysiakini (BM) (@mkini_bm) June 18, 2025 Hadi's son Muhammad Khalil claimed that it was extremely unprofessional in sharing images of his father convalescing without the family's express consent. As the Health Minister, Dr Dzulkefly is expected to be well-versed with hospital protocols. Make absolutely no mistake that this hospital visit and subsequent social media post were very much about political point scoring. Firstly, such a post very subtly and indirectly paints a picture of a sick, old man who is no longer capable of public office. Secondly, it creates the perception that PAS by extension is a weak party as it is being led by an ailing leader who simply refused to step down despite his deteriorating health condition. Thirdly, the post identifies a whole host of surgeons, specialists and medical professionals, many of whom are non-Muslims. The ploy here is clearly to show that Hadi – despite his many incendiary pronouncements on minority Malaysians – has received the best medical treatment possible from specialists of different ethnicities. It must be noted that it is crucial to obtain explicit and informed consent from the patient before taking any photos or videos of them in a hospital setting. This is essential for upholding patient privacy, confidentiality and ethical medical practice. Failure to do so may lead to legal action by the patient. As such, Hadi's family has expressed its unhappiness and disappointment at Dr Dzukefly's actions as have many netizens who pointed out that this was simply wrong (some presumably pro-opposition commenters had even mooted legal action). But as highlighted by some commenters, there had been previous instances when such hospital visits were publicised. Whatever the case is, it would appear that Hadi's family did not provide the required permission and there are other ramifications to this being put out for public consumption. It does appear that there has been a serious lapse of judgement on the part of Dr Dzulkefly despite couching his post in well-wishes and prayers of a speedy recovery. Or does he think the political mileage gained is worth it? In Malaysia, nothing it seems is sacred, especially patient privacy and confidentiality. – June 19, 2025 Main image credit: Dzulkefly Ahmad (@DrDzul)/X
BusinessToday
05-06-2025
- Health
- BusinessToday
No Wires, No Limits: A Bold Leap in Cardiac Tech
Institut Jantung Negara (IJN) has made history with a medical first for Southeast Asia. The team successfully implanted the Abbott AVEIR™ DR, the world's first dual-chamber leadless pacemaker. Approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2023, this device is a game-changer for individuals with heart rhythm disorders. 'This groundbreaking dual-chamber leadless pacemaker will revolutionise care for our patients and significantly expand the number of people we can help,' said Dr Azlan, Senior Consultant Cardiologist and Clinical Director of Interventional Electrophysiology and Implantable Devices at IJN. 'By eliminating traditional wires (leads) and surgical pockets, the system reduces common complications such as infections, lead dislodgement, and vessel blockage.' Designed for individuals with bradycardia (a slower-than-normal heart rate), AVEIR™ DR represents a significant leap in cardiac pacing. Unlike traditional pacemakers that rely on wires and are implanted under the skin, this system uses two tiny devices (each about one-tenth the size of a conventional pacemaker) implanted directly into the heart's right atrium and ventricle. At the core of this advancement is Abbott's proprietary i2i™ (implant-to-implant) communication technology. This system uses high-frequency pulses conducted through the body's blood flow to synchronise the two pacemakers in real-time. It not only provides beat-to-beat coordination but also conserves battery life far more efficiently than Bluetooth® or radio frequency-based systems. 'This technology opens up new possibilities for patients with abnormal heart rhythms,' added Dr Azlan. 'It also allows real-time pacing analysis during implantation, enabling precise positioning and reducing procedural risks.' At IJN, innovation is not just about adopting the latest medical devices—it's about improving patient outcomes. The successful use of the AVEIR™ DR system is a significant step forward for heart care in the region and further cements IJN's standing as a leader in cardiovascular medicine. Cardiovascular disease continues to pose a serious challenge in Malaysia and across Southeast Asia. IJN's Chief Executive Officer, Prof. Datuk Sri Dr Mohamed Ezani Md Taib, emphasised the importance of early diagnosis, public awareness, and the integration of advanced medical solutions to achieve better patient outcomes. Addressing media questions during a press conference, Dr Azlan addressed questions from the media about the long-term outcomes and potential limitations of the device. He noted that, based on over a decade of experience, the complication rate for leadless pacemakers remains very low—less than 1% in the short term and only slightly higher over the long term. The process of replacing the device when the battery is depleted is also simpler and safer, as there are no leads to remove. As stated, the device is specifically intended for patients with confirmed slow or irregular heart rhythms, typically diagnosed through ECG or other monitoring tools. While pacemakers are not suitable for all heart rhythm disorders, IJN's team is committed to training doctors from across Malaysia and the region to expand access to this life-changing technology. Plans are also underway to collaborate with manufacturers on future innovations tailored to specific patient needs. As with any new medical technology, cost remains a consideration. IJN is working to structure pricing that makes the device accessible to both public and private patients. The hospital's model of using private-sector revenue to subsidise public care will also help ensure broader access as the technology becomes more widely adopted. As the world's first and only dual-chamber leadless pacemaker, the AVEIR™ DR represents a significant advancement in minimally invasive heart care. Its wire-free design reduces risks, enables quicker recovery, and allows for future upgrades—reflecting Abbott's vision to empower patients to live fuller, healthier lives. Related
Free Malaysia Today
22-05-2025
- Health
- Free Malaysia Today
Advancing cardiothoracic surgery in the Asean region
Teams from IJN and the American Association for Thoracic Surgery alongside workshop participants, comprising cardiothoracic doctors from all over the world, on May 12. (Muhammad Rabbani Jamian @ FMT Lifestyle) KUALA LUMPUR : Institut Jantung Negara (IJN) recently partnered with the American Association for Thoracic Surgery (AATS) and the Malaysian Association for Thoracic & Cardiovascular Surgery to organise the AATS Foundation Cardiothoracic Workshop. Held on May 11-13, the event was aimed at facilitating cross-border knowledge exchange in cardiothoracic surgery – a field of medicine focusing on procedures involving the thorax or chest, especially the heart, lung and oesophagus. It also provided valuable networking opportunities, with participants spending the first two days at IJN and the final day at Serdang Hospital. 'As a healthcare provider, IJN is proud to host this event because it reflects our commitment towards the Asean chairmanship of the country,' IJN CEO Dr Ezani Taib said in his opening speech. Malaysia assumed the role of Asean chair on Jan 1, following an annual rotation system based on the alphabetical order of the English names of member states. A total of 52 cardiothoracic doctors participated in the workshop, representing several countries: Indonesia (9), Vietnam (4), Philippines (1), Thailand (3), Myanmar (3), Malaysia (30), Brunei (1) and Bangladesh (1). Four live surgeries – three adult and one paediatric – were performed at IJN during the workshop. (Muhammad Rabbani Jamian @ FMT Lifestyle) During the session at IJN, four live surgeries were successfully performed – three adult cases and one paediatric. The procedures, carried out by surgeons from AATS and IJN, included mitral valve repair, coronary artery bypass graft, aortic valve replacement, and the Ross-Konno procedure – a surgical technique used to treat aortic valve disease, especially in children and young adults. The surgeries were broadcast live to the participants, allowing for real-time observation, interactive discussions, and in-depth knowledge sharing. Speaking with FMT Lifestyle, Dr Nazeri Nordin, head of cardiothoracic and vascular surgery and senior consultant cardiothoracic surgeon at IJN, explained that the participants had received grants from the AATS Foundation to attend the workshop. Established in 1917, AATS and its philanthropic arm, the AATS Foundation, are dedicated to advancing the field of cardiothoracic surgery. 'At the AATS Foundation, we're very dedicated to global education and training. We strongly believe the obligation of those with knowledge is to teach others and, therefore, spread the knowledge for the benefit of patients all around the world,' Dr Joseph Woo, chair of cardiothoracic surgery at Stanford University, told FMT Lifestyle. Woo is also president-elect of AATS and secretary of the AATS Foundation. (From left) Dr Ezani Taib and Dr Nazeri Nordin from IJN, and Dr Joseph Woo, chair of cardiothoracic surgery at Stanford University. Explaining why IJN was selected, Woo said: 'IJN represents the gold standard of heart and thoracic care in Southeast Asia. The level of clinical expertise, institutional commitment to training, and strong leadership make it an ideal partner for this regional collaboration.' When he first visited IJN nearly 15 years ago, Woo recalled seeing technology that had not yet been adopted in the United States. 'So, this is a good example of us learning from each other and teaching each other – bi-directional learning throughout the world,' he said. IJN, the largest heart hospital in Malaysia, has internationally recognised clinical accreditation, comprehensive training programmes, and a long-standing commitment to innovation in cardiovascular care. In 2023, it was selected as one of the four finalists for the Flagship Medical Tourism Hospital Programme. The initiative, slated to conclude this year, aims to raise Malaysia's global healthcare profile and elevate the country's private healthcare services. 'This event reflects our commitment towards that goal, by bringing international doctors – not just from the Asean region, but also from the US – to share their experiences. With that, we'll be able to deliver better patient care across the region,' Ezani shared. Live broadcasts of the surgeries enabled real-time observation, interactive discussions, and in-depth knowledge sharing. (Muhammad Rabbani Jamian @ FMT Lifestyle) The collaboration, he added, is a testament to IJN's standing as a centre of excellence not only in Malaysia but throughout the region. 'As we continue our journey with AATS, we are proud to position IJN as a regional hub for cardiothoracic training and care for Asean. It reflects our role in shaping the future of heart surgery, not just for Malaysians but for the broader Southeast Asian community,' Ezani said.
Malaysiakini
24-04-2025
- Health
- Malaysiakini
IJN performs Malaysia first Paediatric LVAD implantation
KUALA LUMPUR, 24 April 2025 – Institut Jantung Negara (IJN) has made medical history by successfully performing Malaysia's first Paediatric Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVALJ) implantation, marking a significant breakthrough in the nation's paediatric cardiac care capabilities. The pioneering procedure was carried out on 29 March 2025 on 12-year-old Jackson Foong Yi Jie, who was urgently referred to IJN with symptoms of advanced heart failure. Upon admission, Jackson's condition deteriorated rapidly, culminating in seizures and ventricular fibrillation—a life-threatening cardiac arrhythmia. In a critical decision, IJN's multidisciplinary team implanted a Paediatric LVAD--a mechanical circulatory support device designed to temporarily take over the pumping function of the heart as bridge to recovery. The device stabilizes patients with severe heart failure, offering the heart time to recover or serving as a bridge to heart transplantation if required. "This was a life-saving intervention," said Mr. Khairul Anuar bin Abdul Aziz, Deputy Head of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery Department, who led the operation. "The LVAD enabled us to maintain circulation and provide the necessary time for the heart to regain function." A multidisciplinary team—including cardiothoracic surgeons, anesthetists, paediatric cardiologists, perfusionists, nurses, and operating theatre technicians—were mobilized to ensure the procedure's success. After 16 days of LVAD support, Jackson's heart function improved significantly, allowing the device to be safely removed on 14 April 2025. "Jackson has this contagious smile, and everyone involved in his care is thrilled that he has made an almost full recovery—with no neurological symptoms despite experiencing cardiac arrest,' said Dr Joyce Darshinee, Consultant Paediatric Cardiac Intensivist, who played a key role in Jackson's postoperative care. "Fortunately, his heart recovered, and he didn't need a heart transplant." Jackson is making a remarkable recovery on the ward and is targeted to be discharged from IJN soon. This landmark achievement reflects IJN's steadfast commitment to advancing treatment for complex paediatric heart conditions and reinforces its leadership in cardiac innovation, both nationally and regionally. This content is provided by IJN The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of Malaysiakini. Interested in having your press releases, exclusive interviews, or branded content articles on Malaysiakini? For more information, contact [email protected] or [email protected]
