I WAS deeply touched by the letter written by adik Lara Khadijah McAfee to Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah thanking him for all the hard work in combating the Covid-19 pandemic. It brought tears to my eyes.

Mr Prime Minister, if you need to reshuffle your cabinet after this pandemic, look no further. Dr Noor Hisham is the best and most qualified to be the health minister. China Global TV Network (CGTN) said he is one of the three leading doctors in the world fighting to curb the spread of the pandemic. 

We know that you make decisions as the prime minister and accept ultimate responsibility but it is the officials who give advice. 

It is not often we have Malaysians towering in the medical field. He has also been awarded a fellowship by the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh - the oldest, largest and most prestigious college of surgeons in the world.

He is the calm amid the storm. I hope politicians consult him before making any suggestions that may result in more harm, like holding Ramadan bazaars.

How I wish more of our director-generals can emulate him by being impartial in their line of duty.

Malaysians have had enough with ministers who show companionable charm but are, at the same time, callous and fond of making careless statements. Dr Noor Hisham only uses verified data and credible sources to make decisions. We also have cases of ministers and deputy ministers flouting the movement control order under the pretext of “peduli rakyat” without being detained.

Despite being recognised and praised as a top doctor, Dr Noor Hisham directed credit to leaders and frontliners. 

“I see this as a recognition for the country, not for me. 

“Your words are too kind but I am not doing it alone. I am lucky to have a great team with me to help our country,” he wrote in his letter to Lara. 

We rarely hear such statements from our politicians. 

Dr Noor Hisham, may Allah SWT bless you and your family and stay safe. We love you.

What say you… – April 18, 2020.

* Saleh Mohammed reads The Malaysian Insight.

* This is the opinion of the writer or publication and does not necessarily represent the views of The Malaysian Insight. Article may be edited for brevity and clarity.