THE Ministry of Health Malaysia (MOH) and the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) today forged a strategic partnership to strengthen the national health system transformation agenda through digital technology in expanding coverage and access to health services in rural and remote areas.
The pilot project for medicine delivery using drones will be implemented in Sabah, with the Tawau Health Clinic as the main delivery hub to the two National Information Dissemination Centres (NADI) nearby.
In a statement, MOH and MCMC said Sabah was chosen based on its stable 4G network coverage as well as the state's geographical challenges that demand innovative solutions to ensure continuity of treatment and supply of medicine to the people.
The initiative also aims to expand e-Health services across 1,099 NADIs nationwide, which will serve as digital connectivity gateways in rural areas.
"Local residents will have access to virtual consultations with doctors via telehealth kiosks, ensuring digital health inclusivity in rural areas.
"Cloud-based digital systems and virtual consultation platforms will be used to support the delivery of medicines to hard-to-reach areas, facilitate follow-up treatment, and strengthen the continuous monitoring of rural patients.
"MOH and MCMC will also examine efforts to strengthen digital health literacy among local communities to increase the confidence of users of digital health services in terms of safety and effectiveness,".
This strategic collaboration is very important as the country faces systemic challenges such as the increase in the elderly population, the increasing burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), and the imbalance in the patient-to-health worker ratio.
It is also essential in realizing the mission of “1 Individual, 1 Record” through strengthening the country’s digital health ecosystem.
"MOH welcomes this collaboration as it can strengthen the public health system by offering innovative and people-friendly solutions.
"It is a significant approach to addressing today’s healthcare challenges, especially in areas that are difficult to access,” said Health MinisterDatuk Seri Dr. Dzulkefly Ahmad. - July 24, 2025
