The Galen Centre for Health and Social Policy described Zaliha’s appointment as “refreshing” and said it was a sign that Putrajaya was looking for fresh insights in the health sector.

Galen Centre CEO Azrul Khalib said Zaliha’s first task should be to table the GEG bill, as it had already been agreed on by a bipartisan parliamentary select committee previously.

“This bill is a great showpiece of different parties with varying positions and views working hard and sincerely to shape a better and healthier future for Malaysians. It deserves to be tabled and it should have support from the parties in Parliament,” he said.

Azrul said Zaliha’s next priority should be publishing the health reform white paper, also initiated by Khairy, which had already taken into account the views of numerous stakeholders in the healthcare sector.

“Zaliha needs to consider four critical issues if she is serious about improving the general health and wellbeing of Malaysians.

“She needs to look at sustainable healthcare financing, respond effectively to the crisis of non-communicable diseases, close the gap on mental health, and address the lack of preparedness to provide care for our ageing population.”

He called on the Sekijang MP to be deliberately consultative and inclusive in tackling issues in the sector, saying close collaboration with the private sector, patient groups, affected communities and civil society was key.

Azrul said the healthcare system will need improvements in terms of infrastructure and manpower, particularly in East Malaysia.

“The government has an opportunity to implement major reforms and introduce significant changes to our healthcare system. Tough decisions will need to be made to ensure that the quality and coverage of healthcare accessible to Malaysians are befitting an upper-middle-income country,” he said.