As part of the United Nations University International Institute for Global Health (UNU-IIGH) 20th Anniversary celebrations, the panel forum “Governing the Digital Transformation in Health Systems” was held during the Global Health Security Conference (GHS2026) on 10 June 2026 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre.
GHS2026 brought together policymakers, researchers, healthcare professionals, and global health leaders to discuss emerging challenges and innovations in strengthening health security and resilient health systems. Within this context, the forum explored the opportunities and governance challenges associated with the growing use of artificial intelligence (AI) and digital technologies in healthcare.
Moderated by Dr Claudia Lopes (UNU-IIGH), the panel featured Mr Jai Ganesh Udayasankaran, Executive Director of the Asia eHealth Information Network (AeHIN); Professor Victor Hoe, Head of the Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Universiti Malaya; Ms Kathryn Johnson, Policy Specialist at the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP); and Dr Mahesh Appannan, Director of the Digital Health Department, Ministry of Health Malaysia.
The discussion highlighted diverse perspectives on digital health governance. Mr Jai Ganesh Udayasankaran shared insights on regional collaboration and the importance of translating dialogue into coordinated action across countries. Ms Kathryn Johnson discussed the need to ensure that digital innovation supports long-term sustainability and resilience, while Dr Mahesh Appannan reflected on the evolving role of governments in governing health data and digital health ecosystems.
Representing Universiti Malaya, Professor Victor Hoe focused on the academic and workforce dimensions of digital transformation. He emphasised the importance of preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals to work effectively with AI and digital technologies. As these tools become increasingly integrated into healthcare, educational institutions have a critical role in developing the competencies required for their responsible and effective use.
A key message from the forum was that technology should serve people, not the other way around. While AI has the potential to enhance healthcare delivery and health system performance, humans must remain at the centre of decision-making, governance, and patient care. Building a digitally enabled health system therefore requires not only technological innovation, but also appropriate governance, education, and a continued commitment to public trust and equity.
Acknowledgement
The Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, congratulates UNU-IIGH on its 20th Anniversary and thanks UNU-IIGH for organising this important forum as part of GHS2026.
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