Kini RM1 bilion diperuntuk pacu pendigitalan kesihatan awam

Rumah Negara plans to boost healthcare sector's digital access by increasing its allocation from RM650 million to RM1 billion, as directed by the Prime Minister, says government spokesperson Fahmi Fadzil. The funds will specifically be used to expand internet access, including public WiFi facilities, and to implement the Electronic Medical Records (EMR) system in government hospitals and clinics.

The EMR initiative, Fahmi explained, is based on the success of a pilot project already conducted at Padang Besar Health Clinic. "Doctors can now access patient information without referring to physical documents ... everything is done electronically. This can save time for patients seeking treatment," he said after delivering the Prime Minister's New Year 2026 message at Putrajaya International Convention Centre (PICC).

The digital healthcare initiative is part of six urgent measures the government will implement on Malaysia's National Day, starting from September 1. Elaborating further, Fahmi, who is also the Communications Minister, said his ministry would hold further discussions to accelerate and expand the coverage of the involved facilities.

"We will need to expand. I will hold discussions. Initially, 15 hospitals are expected to be completed, but I will ask for this number to be increased," he added. Fahmi also touched upon the free artificial intelligence (AI) program for the youth announced by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, calling it a big opportunity for local youngsters to enhance their digital skills.

"As the Prime Minister announced, there is space for 100,000 youths aged 18 to 30 to join the 'AI for Rakyat' program, which gives them free access to three AI apps for three months," he said, adding that more details about the initiative will be announced by the Digital Ministry.