The Academy of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Malaysia (AOEMM) extends its heartfelt congratulations to Datuk Dr Mahathar Abd Wahab on his appointment as the new Director-General of Health, effective 29 May 2025, which was announced by the Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar.
Dr Mahathar brings to the role a distinguished career in emergency medicine. He holds a Bachelor of Medical Science from the University of St Andrews, Scotland; a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery from the University of Manchester, United Kingdom; and a Master of Emergency Medicine from Universiti Sains Malaysia. Since beginning his service with the Ministry of Health on 1 October 1996, he has held various key positions, most recently serving as the Head of the Emergency and Trauma Department at Hospital Kuala Lumpur.
AOEMM’s Commitment to Occupational Health
As the national professional body dedicated to advancing occupational and environmental medicine, AOEMM is poised to support Dr Mahathar’s vision for a robust and inclusive healthcare system. Our commitment to promoting occupational health across all sectors aligns seamlessly with the Ministry of Health’s ongoing reform agenda, aimed at delivering efficient, compassionate, and professional healthcare services for the benefit of the people and the nation.
Collaborating Towards a Healthier Workforce
AOEMM stands ready to collaborate with the Ministry of Health under Dr Mahathar’s leadership to enhance workplace health and safety standards. By integrating occupational health principles into broader public health strategies, we can collectively work towards a healthier, more productive workforce contributing to the nation’s socio-economic development.
We look forward to engaging with Dr Mahathar and the Ministry of Health in initiatives that prioritise the well-being of workers across all industries, ensuring that occupational health remains a cornerstone of Malaysia’s public health landscape.
Acknowledgement
We commend the Ministry of Health and the Government of Malaysia for their commitment to strengthening the nation’s healthcare leadership and for recognising the importance of occupational health in achieving comprehensive health reform.