Nurses pledge to shape the future of healthcare: A global celebration

May 12, 2025

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(4th from left) Dato Indera Dr Nor Azimi Yunis, Deputy Director-General of Health at the Ministry of Health Malaysia, strikes the gong to officially open the International Nurses Day celebration, while (3rd from left) Dr Aisyahton Suhaimi, President of the Malaysian Nurses Association; (1st from left) Suria Aziz, Pahang State Chief Nursing Officer; (2nd from left) Gowry Narayanan, Director of Nursing, Ministry of Health Malaysia; Dato Dr Wan Abdul Rahim Wan Muhamad, Pahang State Health Director; and Dato Ir Razali Kassim, Chairman of the Pahang State Public Works, Transport, and Health Committee, look on.

More than 1,179 nurses gathered this morning to renew their pledge and take the nurses' oath in a spirited celebration of International Nurses Day. The event, organized by the Malaysian Nurses Association, was themed “Our Nurses, Our Future. Caring for Nurses, Strengthens Economies.” It brought together 80,000 nurses globally from the private sector, government sector, institutions, and healthcare facilities.

Nurses: The heart of healthcare
During the event, Dato Indera Dr Nor Azimi Yunis, Deputy Director-General of Health at the Ministry of Health Malaysia, delivered a powerful speech highlighting the crucial role nurses play within the healthcare system.

“Doctors are not always there. Doctors are only present for a short time, but when nurses arrive, they stay. Nurses are vital in strengthening the healthcare system, enhancing community health, and improving the overall well-being of the population. Whether in hospitals or clinics, their roles remain consistent,” Dr Nor Azimi emphasized.

Healthcare beyond the hospital walls
Dr Nor Azimi elaborated that healthcare is not limited to hospital settings alone. Community health initiatives, particularly those aimed at preventing non-communicable diseases (NCDs), also heavily rely on nursing care. “When patients with NCDs visit hospitals in large numbers, it puts immense pressure on the healthcare system. In family care, nurses often provide essential support, even outside hospital environments,” she noted.

Dr Nor Azimi also acknowledged the dedication of nurses working in remote communities, particularly among indigenous populations. “Our nursing ambassadors, who travel to indigenous areas, often stay for three days to complete treatments for pregnant women, children, babies, and toddlers. Despite restrictions on other groups, nurses and medical doctors are allowed to enter to ensure healthcare access,” she explained.

Learning from Indonesia’s commitment to nursing
Reflecting on international practices, Dr Nor Azimi pointed to Indonesia’s robust commitment to the nursing profession as a model worth emulating. “Strengthening the nursing profession is crucial for enhancing women’s physical, emotional, and mental well-being. We must not overlook professional development and opportunities for women, especially those in nursing,” she asserted.

Visibility and identity of Malaysian nurses
Dr Nor Azimi stressed the importance of raising the visibility of nurses while preserving their identity. “Nurses must be seen not only as healthcare professionals but as community leaders. Whether from Pahang, KL, or other states, the identity of Malaysian nurses should be recognizable and respected,” she said.

A call for collaboration
In her closing remarks, Dr Nor Azimi called on government agencies, private sectors, academic institutions, and the community to unite in support of the nursing profession. “Healthcare is a team effort. Whether you are a doctor, nurse, or general practitioner, we are stronger together. Providing the best patient care is our ultimate goal,” she added.

A day of gratitude and recognition
Earlier, Dr Aisyahton Suhaimi, President of the Malaysian Nurses Association, addressed the gathering, emphasizing that International Nurses Day, celebrated every year on May 12, honors the exceptional contributions of nurses worldwide.

“This year marks the first time the celebration is held in Pahang. The theme, is not just a slogan but a call to action. Investing in nurses means investing in a robust healthcare system, a healthier community, and a competitive economy,” Dr Aisyahton stated.

She urged the healthcare community to recognize the essential role of nurses, not just on International Nurses Day but every day. “Your work is invaluable, your voice matters, and your dedication deserves recognition at all levels. Let us commit to building a better future for nursing,” she concluded.

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