Anwar Unveils IJN University College, Boosting Nation’s Medical Talent Pipeline

Malaysia’s capacity for specialised healthcare education took a step forward with the launch of IJN University College (IJNUC), officiated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim yesterday.

The upgrade, approved by the Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE) in May 2025, marks the elevation of IJN College to university college status under IJN Holdings, which also oversees the Institut Jantung Negara (IJN), the country’s leading heart centre.

The new institution aims to address Malaysia’s growing demand for advanced healthcare training by combining academic study with clinical exposure guided by top medical specialists. IJNUC currently houses three faculties, Allied Health Sciences, Managerial Sciences and Nursing, offering a range of diploma, bachelor’s and postgraduate programmes focused on cardiac care and healthcare management.

Among its key programmes is the Graduate Certificate in Cardiovascular and Thoracic Sciences (GCCVTS), which has produced over 500 graduates now serving in local and international medical institutions. The university college also offers degrees in Cardiovascular Technology, Pharmaceutical Technology and Nursing, with new collaborations, including one with Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI), to offer a Bachelor in Psychology (Honours).

IJN Holdings Group Chief Executive Officer Prof Dato’ Sri Dr Mohamed Ezani Md Taib said the milestone reflects the group’s long-term goal of aligning medical training with Malaysia’s future healthcare needs.

“This milestone reflects IJN Holdings’ commitment to integrating world-class clinical practice with academic excellence. Through IJN University College, we aim to develop a highly skilled and compassionate healthcare workforce that will uphold Malaysia’s reputation as a regional leader in specialised medical care,” he said.

IJNUC Vice-Chancellor Prof Emerita Dr Durrishah Idrus said the launch represents a defining moment in advancing Malaysia’s expertise in cardiovascular education and research.

“It is a great honour to have YAB Prime Minister officiate this launch, as we are deeply inspired and highly motivated to continue pushing boundaries in producing highly skilled professionals who will not only serve the nation but also elevate Malaysia’s position globally in healthcare and cardiovascular-related programmes and professional training,” she said.

The institution also introduced its official anthem, Panji Ilmu, during the ceremony, symbolising its commitment to academic and clinical excellence.

Looking ahead, IJNUC plans to roll out new programmes in Physiotherapy, Psychology, Pharmacy and Nursing, along with Doctorate-level courses in Cardiothoracic Surgery, Cardiology, Paediatrics and Anaesthesiology, reinforcing its role as a national hub for specialised healthcare education.