Malaysia: a primary health care case study in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic 

Overview

Malaysia is a multicultural society, comprising a federation of 13 states and three territories in a parliamentary democracy. As an upper-middle-income country, Malaysia’s society and economy has transformed in recent years, with the population benefiting from a well-established health care system that offers equitable and universal access, and strong social and economic growth. This case study examines key aspects of primary health care (PHC) in Malaysia to inform future policy and practice, incorporating lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic between January 2020 and April 2022. It identifies opportunities to strengthen PHC, including re-orienting services towards wellness, improving community empowerment, and harnessing the potential of digital health and public-private partnerships.