KUALA LUMPUR: KPJ Healthcare Berhad has appointed Prof Emeritus Datuk Dr Lokman Saim as its first chief medical director (CMD), effective today.

The group, in a statement today, said that as CMD, he will lead efforts to align clinical operations with the KPJ Health System's strategic goals, which integrate clinical care, education and research to achieve excellence in patient outcomes.

KPJ Healthcare president and managing director Chin Keat Chyuan said the appointment marks a significant milestone for KPJ Healthcare.

"With his extensive expertise, proven leadership and remarkable contributions to the group, Professor Lokman is well-prepared to take on this important role, a first for KPJ.

"As a long-standing member of Team KPJ, he brings a deep understanding of our operations and values, ensuring continuity and strength in leadership," he said.

Chin said the appointment of a CMD reflects the group's steadfast commitment to enhancing patient-centric care, advancing clinical governance, and elevating the quality of healthcare services provided to patients, employees and the community.

He added that it also reaffirms KPJ Healthcare's determination to set new benchmarks in private healthcare excellence and drive meaningful progress within the industry.

According to Chin, the appointment further underscores KPJ Healthcare's strategy to position clinical functions as a core component of its operations, ensuring seamless integration with the group's overall objectives.

The statement said Dr Lokman brings over 40 years of expertise in clinical medicine, academic leadership and medical innovation. He is a pioneer in otology and neurotology in Malaysia, having introduced cochlear implant surgery to the country and established the Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) Cochlear Implant Team.

It also noted that his multidisciplinary approach has set new standards for hearing healthcare, improving the lives of hearing-impaired patients.

In addition to his clinical achievements, Dr Lokman has served as vice-chancellor of KPJ Healthcare University (KPJU) since 2012.

Before this, he was the founding Dean of Medicine and director of UKM Medical Centre, where he spearheaded efforts to integrate medical education, research and hospital services as part of its mission to establish an academic medical centre.

During his tenure at KPJU, he has been instrumental in aligning education and training with the group's needs, ensuring a continuous pipeline of skilled healthcare professionals.

His contributions to surgical training and microsurgical workshops have significantly advanced Malaysia's healthcare workforce capabilities.

According to the statement, Dr Lokman's current role as vice-chancellor of KPJU will transition to a new appointee, with further details to be announced soon.