Introduction

Prof Datuk Dr Zulkifli Ismail is a distinguished figure in the field of paediatrics and paediatric cardiology, with a career spanning academia, clinical practice, and leadership in numerous professional organizations. His contributions to child health extend far beyond Malaysia, reaching across the Asia-Pacific region and beyond.

In his academic career, Dr Zulkifli served as a Professor of Paediatrics and Paediatric Cardiology at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia. His leadership qualities were evident in his roles as the Director of the university's teaching hospital and Medical Director of its private wing. Although he opted for early retirement from the university, his commitment to medical education continues. He currently serves as a Clinical Professor of Paediatrics at KPJ Healthcare University and is a Board Member of the same institution.

Dr Zulkifli's clinical expertise is highly sought after. He practices as a Consultant Paediatrician & Paediatric Cardiologist at KPJ Selangor Specialist Hospital and is a visiting Paediatric Cardiologist at Damansara Specialist Hospital. His clinical acumen is further recognized in his role as the Chairman of the Medical & Dental Advisory Committee of KPJ Selangor Specialist Hospital.

Throughout his career, Dr Zulkifli has been actively involved in professional associations, often in leadership positions. He is a Past President of the Malaysian Paediatric Association (MPA) and continues to contribute as the Editor of the MPA's official newsletter, Berita MPA. His influence extends beyond national borders as the current Secretary-General of the Asia Pacific Pediatric Association (APPA), following his tenure as its President from 2012 to 2016. He has also served as a Standing Committee member of the International Pediatric Association (IPA), demonstrating his global impact in the field of paediatrics.

Dr Zulkifli's passion for child health is evident in his involvement in various advocacy and education programs. He chairs the Positive Parenting programme, a multi-faceted parent education and engagement initiative by the MPA. He also leads Immunise4Life, a vaccination advocacy and public education program, and Dengue Prevention Advocacy Malaysia (DPAM), a collaborative effort aligned with the goals of the World Health Organisation (WHO) and Malaysia's Ministry of Health. His commitment to youth health is further demonstrated through his chairmanship of two new MPA programs: Positive Teens and Happy Little Bloomers, focusing on adolescent engagement and early childhood development respectively.

In recognition of his significant contributions, Dr Zulkifli has received several prestigious honors. In 2008, he was conferred the Panglima Mahkota Wilayah award by the Malaysian King, which carries the honorific title of 'Datuk'. In 2012, the Asia Pacific Pediatric Association awarded him the 'Outstanding Asian Pediatrician' award for his contributions to national and international paediatrics and child health.

Dr Zulkifli's expertise is also valued in policy-making circles. He serves as a member of the Ministry of Health Unrelated Transplant Approval Committee and was a Board member of the National Population & Family Development Board (LPPKN) Malaysia until 2019. His involvement in these roles underscores his commitment to shaping health policies that benefit children and families.

Through his multifaceted career as an academic, clinician, leader, and advocate, Prof Datuk Dr Zulkifli Ismail continues to make significant contributions to the field of paediatrics and child health, impacting the lives of children and families across Malaysia and the Asia-Pacific region.

Speaker session