2 days ago
- Business
- New Straits Times
Rakan KKM part of push to fix public healthcare, says minister
PETALING JAYA: Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad has reaffirmed his determination to reform health financing, calling it a critical mission in his second term as the nation faces rising pressure on its public healthcare system.
"This is my second bite of the cherry. I came back with a vengeance to get reform done — especially health financing.
"We have studied the issues, we have run the numbers, and now, we must act," he said in his speech at the launch of the book "Crisis and Community: Covid 19 in Malaysia" here today.
Dzulkefly said the country can no longer rely solely on annual budget increases, citing limited fiscal space and growing demands on public healthcare.
He said there is a need for structural solutions that improve sustainability without compromising access or quality.
Part of that broader reform agenda includes Rakan KKM, which he described as a "game-changer" to address talent attrition and generate revenue within the public system.
The model allows specialists to offer paid elective services at selected public hospitals, with proceeds reinvested to upgrade facilities and expand capacity.
"This isn't about jumping queues for emergency cases. It's about giving people an option for elective procedures while retaining top talent in the public sector."
He also addressed concerns about fairness, emphasising that emergency and critical care services will remain fully subsidised and prioritised for all Malaysians.
The programme, which provides "premium economy" services, will operate under the ownership of the Minister of Finance Incorporated (MOF Inc), ensuring transparency and public accountability.
He said a full media briefing on Rakan KKM is expected soon, where further details on implementation, pricing, and safeguards will be announced.
Dzulkefly also urged all stakeholders to support meaningful reform and judge the initiative by its long-term impact on the nation's healthcare system.
