KUALA LUMPUR: KPJ Healthcare Berhad has appointed Prof Emeritus Datuk Dr. Lokman Saim as its first chief medical director (CMD), effective immediately. In this pioneering role, Dr. Lokman is set to align clinical operations with the KPJ Health System's strategic initiatives, which aim to integrate clinical care, education, and research to enhance patient outcomes.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, KPJ Healthcare president and managing director Chin Keat Chyuan emphasized the importance of this appointment as a significant milestone for the organization. Chin expressed confidence in Dr. Lokman's ability to lead, citing his extensive expertise and proven leadership within the group. Dr. Lokman, a long-time member of Team KPJ, is well-equipped to ensure continuity and strength in leadership, bringing a deep understanding of the group's operations and values.
Chin highlighted that the establishment of the CMD role reflects KPJ Healthcare's ongoing commitment to providing patient-centric care, advancing clinical governance, and improving healthcare services for patients, employees, and the community. This strategic move is also seen as a step towards setting new benchmarks in private healthcare excellence and driving meaningful progress within the industry.
Dr. Lokman brings over 40 years of experience in clinical medicine, academic leadership, and medical innovation. He is renowned as a pioneer in otology and neurotology in Malaysia, notably introducing cochlear implant surgery to the country and founding the Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) Cochlear Implant Team. His multidisciplinary approach has significantly advanced hearing healthcare, benefiting patients with hearing impairments.
Besides his clinical accomplishments, Dr. Lokman has held the position of vice-chancellor at KPJ Healthcare University (KPJU) since 2012. He previously served as the founding Dean of Medicine and director of the UKM Medical Centre, where he integrated medical education, research, and hospital services as part of its mission to create an academic medical center. His efforts at KPJU have been pivotal in aligning education and training with the group's needs, ensuring a steady flow of skilled healthcare professionals. His contributions to surgical training and microsurgical workshops have notably enhanced Malaysia's healthcare workforce capabilities.
The statement from KPJ Healthcare indicates that Dr. Lokman's current role as vice-chancellor of KPJU will be handed over to a new appointee, with further announcements forthcoming.