WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus invoked the Malaysian slogan "Malaysia Boleh" in his keynote speech at the 79th World Health Assembly in Geneva in May 2026 to promote global health sovereignty and equity [1, 2, 3, 4]. The phrase, meaning "Malaysia can," symbolizes the idea that all countries can achieve the highest standards of health for their people, not just as a privilege for a few [2, 3, 4].
Dr Tedros said he learned the phrase during a meeting with Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim earlier that month. He recounted, "I visited Malaysia recently and had a meeting with the prime minister, and one thing I picked up was 'Malaysia Boleh', which means 'Malaysia can'. I think all countries can. And that's what (Ghana's) President John Dramani Mahama showed us, that it is possible to change, to have a paradigm shift. So boleh, boleh, it's possible, we can" [1, 2, 3, 4].
In his address, Dr Tedros emphasized the need for a global shift toward health sovereignty, solidarity, and equity. He stated that WHO stands ready to support countries striving for these goals [1, 2, 3, 4].
Malaysia’s Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad delivered the country’s remarks at the Assembly. He stressed the importance of ensuring unhindered access to humanitarian aid amid volatile geopolitical conditions. He called on nations to uphold humanitarian principles and respect international humanitarian law [1, 2, 3, 4].
The sequence of events began with Dr Tedros’ meeting with Malaysia’s Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim in May 2026, where he first encountered the "Malaysia Boleh" motto. He then delivered the keynote speech citing the phrase at the Assembly later that month, followed by Malaysia’s ministerial statement on humanitarian aid [1, 2, 3, 4].
The Assembly continues its sessions this month in Geneva, with ongoing discussions on global health challenges and cooperation.
