PM Anwar Ibrahim launches National Heart Institute (IJN) University College

November 4, 2025

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Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim emphasizes that education and health are the cornerstones of Malaysia's development agenda, praising the National Heart Institute University College for uniquely integrating both critical sectors to advance the nation's growth.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today officiated the launch of the National Heart Institute (IJN) University College, marking the official elevation of its college to university college status. The milestone, approved by the Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE) on May 13, underscores IJN Holdings' long-term vision to strengthen Malaysia's capacity in specialized healthcare education.

In a significant announcement during the launch, the Prime Minister pledged that from 2026 onwards, the government will provide full assistance to children from the poorest families, ensuring no Malaysian is left behind in the nation's educational development.

"The importance of this program is the high hope to raise the University College to a premier in the field of medicine and medical science. Despite race and stature, we must remember to build this country, build everyone. Do not allow any one citizen to be left out," Anwar stated.

The Prime Minister announced the addition of 1,500 new educational places, not only in matriculation programs but also for Form 6 students, with priority given to assisting children from underprivileged backgrounds.

"This will be one of the priorities to assist children from the poor," he emphasized, praising the determination and hard work of students from poor families, including those from public housing projects (PPR), estates, and rural areas who achieve excellent results despite challenging circumstances.

Anwar highlighted that education and health represent the biggest demands in the country's development agenda, commending the National Heart Institute University College for combining these two critical sectors.

"It is truly remarkable that the National Heart Institute University College has combined education and health, which is the focus in the country's agenda of change and development. Malaysia as a country will be able to rise with good education," he added.

The National Heart Institute University College, established to meet Malaysia's growing demand for advanced healthcare training, builds upon the foundation of IJN College. As part of IJN Holdings, which also oversees the National Heart Institute—the nation's leading and internationally recognized heart center—the institution combines academic excellence with hands-on clinical exposure under the guidance of top medical specialists.

The university college currently comprises three main faculties: the Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, the Faculty of Managerial Sciences, and the Faculty of Nursing, offering specialized programs in healthcare and management. Among its flagship courses is the Graduate Certificate in Cardiovascular and Thoracic Sciences, which has produced more than 500 graduates now serving in leading healthcare institutions locally and abroad.

With its new status, the institution can now offer its own homegrown programs at Bachelor, Master, and PhD levels. Currently, it offers Bachelor of Science in Cardiovascular Technology (Hons), Bachelor of Pharmaceutical Technology, Bachelor of Nursing Sciences (Hons), and Diploma in Nursing. It has also begun collaborating with Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI) to offer a Bachelor in Psychology (Honours) program.

In conjunction with the official launch, the National Heart Institute University College also unveiled its official anthem, "Panji Ilmu," symbolizing the institution's spirit, identity, and commitment to excellence in higher education and healthcare.

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