Kuala Lampur, March 2 -- Malaysia's healthcare system, once a source of national pride for its relatively affordable care and widespread accessibility, is now facing a convergence of crises that threaten its very foundation. While past achievements in public health are undeniable, a series of deeply concerning 'red flags', a burgeoning non-communicable disease (NCD) epidemic, a rapidly ageing population, chronic underfunding, a misallocation of resources, a demoralised workforce, and a lagging digital infrastructure which demand immediate and systemic reform, not piecemeal adjustments. The current trajectory is unsustainable, placing the health and well-being of millions of Malaysians at risk.

The sheer scale of the NCD crisis in Malaysi...