Ipoh: Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has urged the Higher Education Ministry to consider expanding the intake quota for the Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) programme at UniKL Royal College of Medicine Perak (UniKL RCMP). Ahmad Zahid, who also serves as the Rural and Regional Development Minister, emphasized that this initiative would align with the government's goal to increase the number of doctors and fortify the healthcare frontline.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Ahmad Zahid proposed the addition of at least 250 more student places during his speech at the UniKL RCMP Silver Jubilee celebration. The event was officiated by the Sultan of Perak, Sultan Nazrin Shah, and attended by notable figures including Perak Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad, Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Zambry Abdul Kadir, and Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad.

Ahmad Zahid also suggested the establishment of a teaching hospital to enhance teaching and learning at UniKL RCMP, given its rapid development. He noted that such a facility would alleviate hospital congestion and significantly benefit the community and nation.

He praised UniKL RCMP for maintaining high teaching standards, an internationally recognized curriculum, and a dedicated academic staff. The institution has produced 10,950 graduates who contribute to national service and enhance Malaysia's reputation internationally.

Ahmad Zahid remarked that the UniKL RCMP Silver Jubilee celebration exemplifies the success of an educational institution under Majlis Amanah Rakyat, which remains pertinent and excels in producing knowledgeable individuals in medicine and health sciences.