A distinguished Consultant Hepatologist and Internal Medicine Specialist, Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Dr. Hj. Mohamed Ismail Merican is celebrated for establishing Malaysia's first specialized Hepatology service. His illustrious career includes serving as Director-General of Health of Malaysia and President of the Malaysian Medical Council. He is uniquely recognized for receiving the "Most Outstanding Fellow of the Year" award and being the only candidate awarded a scholarship twice for specialized Gastroenterology training in Tokyo. His international expertise is further honed by a Commonwealth Fellowship in Hepatology at the Royal Free Hospital, London, and leadership training at Harvard University. Dr. Merican's influence extends to academia as Pro-Chancellor of MAHSA University and leadership of numerous national medical bodies.