KOTA KINABALU — Sabah has the potential to become a centre for integrative medicine research and development by leveraging its rich biodiversity and the traditional knowledge of local communities, Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Noor said.
He said Sabah’s diverse plant life and indigenous knowledge should be systematically documented and scientifically studied to explore their potential to improve public health and well-being.
However, he stressed that such research must be conducted responsibly, with the consent and participation of local communities, while ensuring recognition of their contributions and fair sharing of research benefits.
“I hope local researchers will seize this opportunity to study and introduce Sabah’s herbal products and traditional practices to the international community in a responsible manner.
“As we expand our approaches to healthcare, patient safety and scientific evidence must always remain our top priorities.
“Respect for tradition must be accompanied by careful evaluation of the effectiveness, quality and suitability of these practices,” he said at the opening of the Second International Conference on Integrative and Complementary Medicine (ICIM 2026) here today.
His speech was delivered by Assistant Minister to the Chief Minister Datuk Ceasar Mandela Malakun.
Hajiji said collaboration among universities, healthcare authorities, practitioners and communities was essential to strengthening research and providing clear, evidence-based information to help the public make informed healthcare decisions.
He expressed hope that Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) would continue bridging academic knowledge, healthcare services and local expertise through collaboration with the Sabah State Health Department, professional partners and communities.
He said increasingly complex global health challenges called for broader healthcare approaches rather than reliance on a single method.
“Integrative medicine promotes a holistic approach to health, encompassing prevention, nutrition, lifestyle, mental well-being and family support.
“Sabah’s development must be accompanied by efforts to build a healthy and resilient society, from children to senior citizens,” he said.
Hajiji said Sabah’s ethnic, linguistic, religious and cultural diversity also positioned the state to contribute to the advancement of integrative medicine.
He said effective healthcare services must take into account patients’ circumstances, including their diets, family relationships, social connections, spirituality and environment.
Respecting patients’ languages, beliefs and values, he added, could encourage open communication and strengthen trust between patients and healthcare teams.
Meanwhile, Hajiji said ICIM 2026 aligned with the state government’s aspiration to position Sabah as a centre of academic and research excellence and a medical tourism hub.
He said the conference offered opportunities to strengthen collaboration between local institutions and international experts to improve healthcare services for the people.
“The State Government is committed to improving public health. Let us make full use of this platform to generate ideas and forge collaborations that will make healthcare more inclusive, affordable and effective,” he said.
He expressed hope that the two-day conference, which brought together medical professionals, researchers, practitioners and educators, would lead to sustained cooperation in joint research, professional training and community programmes.
Hajiji also congratulated the Malaysian Medical Association, particularly its Integrative Medicine Committee, and UMS on jointly organising the conference.
