THE National Heart Institute (Institut Jantung Negara or IJN) has secured a major international milestone after its Sports Cardiology service received accreditation from the European Association of Preventive Cardiology (EAPC), making it the only centre in Malaysia and across Asia to hold the distinction.
In a statement, IJN said the accreditation is awarded to institutions that meet stringent European standards in the prevention, diagnosis and management of cardiovascular conditions among athletes and physically active individuals.
"Recognition places IJN among a select group of centres globally, while positioning Malaysia at the forefront of sports cardiology, particularly in Asia," the statement said.
The recognition comes amid growing awareness of sudden cardiac death (SCD) in sports, with international data estimating that such incidents occur in approximately one in 40,000 to one in 80,000 athletes annually, often involving individuals with previously undiagnosed cardiovascular disease.
"Although rare, these incidents have a significant impact, underscoring the importance of early screening and appropriate risk assessment," the statement said.
IJN noted that the increasing popularity of marathons, triathlons, cycling competitions and other high-intensity fitness events has driven the emergence of sports cardiology as a specialised sub-discipline focused on safe participation and long-term cardiovascular health, in line with trends in Malaysia and the wider ASEAN region.
"More than half of Malaysians, about 52 per cent, participate in sports, exercise or recreational physical activity, with a growing number shifting towards high-intensity and endurance pursuits.
"This shift is evident in strong participation in events such as the Kuala Lumpur Marathon, which attracts nearly 36,000 participants each year," the statement said.
Participation in sporting events across ASEAN continues to expand, supported by national policies promoting active lifestyles and increasing interest in competitive and endurance sports.
"Local surveys also indicate that sudden cardiac arrest among recreational athletes is often linked to undiagnosed heart disease, reinforcing the need for early screening and specialised care," IJN said.
Head of Cardiology and Consultant Cardiologist at IJN, Datuk Seri Dr Azmee Mohd Ghazi, who leads the Sports Cardiology programme, said the accreditation reflects the institution’s commitment to delivering care aligned with international standards.
"Being recognised as the only accredited centre in Asia reflects the level of clinical rigour, expertise and systems we have built over time," he said.
He added that as more individuals take part in high-performance and endurance sports, the importance of cardiac screening has become increasingly evident.
"Sports cardiology is not merely about screening; it involves precise diagnosis, appropriate risk stratification, and guidance for safe sports participation. Our priority is to ensure athletes can perform at their best without compromising their heart health," he said.
Group Chief Executive Officer of IJN, Professor Datuk Seri Dr Mohamed Ezani Md Taib, said the accreditation strengthens IJN’s role as a regional referral centre for athlete heart health.
He said that as the national heart centre, IJN’s role extends beyond treatment to developing clinical capabilities, adopting international standards and supporting evolving patient needs, including those of athletes and active individuals.
"In 2024, we identified the potential for sports cardiology services in Malaysia, and as the national referral centre for cardiovascular care, it was important for IJN to take the lead early.
"This led to focused efforts to build the service, from clinical capabilities to training our team, culminating in recognition by a leading international body," he said.
Dr Mohamed Ezani added that the capability enhances Malaysia’s position as a destination for cardiovascular care, particularly for athletes and active individuals seeking internationally benchmarked treatment and management.
"IJN is actively building collaborations with sports associations, professional teams and fitness communities in Malaysia and the region, while also receiving international patients requiring specialist sports cardiology care.
"Through structured screening programmes, educational initiatives and clinical care pathways, IJN aims to ensure optimal performance without compromising heart health," he said. - April 16, 2026
