
Minister urges action on health research
Speaking at the 6th International Medical Research Conference (IMRC) in Karachi, Kamal emphasized the urgent need to link research with policy execution. "As soon as I return to Islamabad, I will call for all research reports from HealthRAB and other institutions and ensure their implementation," he said, adding that the health ministry must move from words to action.

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Business Recorder
07-08-2025
- Business Recorder
Minister highlights importance of breastfeeding
ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for National Health Services and Regulations Mustafa Kamal, Wednesday, highlighting the importance of breastfeeding has said that it was not only nature's best start in life for a child but also the most critical national investment in Pakistan's future. He said that according to the latest National Nutrition Survey, only 48 percent of children in Pakistan are exclusively breastfed in the first six months, which is 12 percent short of the global set target of at least 60 percent by 2030. Although early initiation and continued breastfeeding have seen improvements, more work is needed to close the gap and reach every child and mother with the support they need, he said on the eve of World Breastfeeding Week. He reaffirmed the government of Pakistan's strong commitment to promoting, protecting, and supporting breastfeeding across the country. It contributes directly to our national health goals, economic development, and to the empowerment of women and girls. Breastfeeding is a powerful equaliser. It offers all children the same opportunity for survival, growth, and development regardless of their background. It is the first vaccine a child receives, providing essential antibodies and nutrients that protect against infections and chronic diseases. It promotes cognitive development and emotional bonding and significantly reduces the risk of stunting, wasting, and under-nutrition. Breastfeeding must be recognised as a shared responsibility. It is not solely a mother's burden. We must support mothers through enabling policies, strong health systems, family support, and community engagement. The Government of Pakistan is committed to advancing this agenda through a coordinated and multi-sectoral approach. The Government of Pakistan is taking steps to strengthen legislation, including implementation and enforcement of the International Code of Marketing of Breast-milk substitutes in accordance with WHA 2016. Health Ministry also recognises the importance of community-based support. Lady Health Workers, community health workers, and peer counsellors are essential in promoting breastfeeding practices, especially in areas where health facilities are limited. Linking facility-based care with home-based support will ensure continuity and confidence for mothers. Workplaces must also become more supportive of breastfeeding. Mothers returning to work need access to lactation spaces, breastfeeding breaks, and flexible schedules. Both public and private sectors must adopt family-friendly policies that enable women to balance work and childcare without compromising on the health of their babies, he said. Breastfeeding is a gender equality issue. It highlights the unequal burden of unpaid care work that women carry and the lack of systems that support their well-being. We must move towards a model where women are informed, supported, and empowered to breastfeed if they choose to do so, and where their decision is respected, Kamal said. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025


Business Recorder
26-07-2025
- Business Recorder
Pakistan invites global stakeholders to invest in healthcare sector
Minister for Health Syed Mustafa Kamal has urged international stakeholders to explore partnerships in Pakistan's rapidly evolving health landscape, reported Radio Pakistan on Saturday. Representing Pakistan at Boao Forum for Asia's (BFA) Global Health Forum in Beijing, he said Pakistan presents immense opportunities for collaboration, innovation, and investment. Kamal invited global partners to explore investment avenues, emphasising Pakistan's commitment to providing strong returns, streamlined regulation, and government support. Established in 2001, the Boao Forum for Asia is a non-governmental and non-profit international conference organisation. Since its inception, with a focus on Asia and a global perspective, the Boao Forum for Asia has been committed to promoting regional cooperation in Asia and common development across the world. Apart from traditional economic issues, the conference has been focusing on health issues closely related to economic development and the people's well-being. 'Pakistan is ready for partnerships in global health,' said Kamal, according to a post on his X account, highlighting that250 million population, nursing cooperation, and digital reforms are our assets. 'Economy cannot progress without health,' said Kamal. During the address, the health minister informed that the recently inaugurated digital licensing and registration system for medical devices 'will complete licensing in 20 days.' Just days ago, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif launched the digital licensing system, terming it a significant milestone in healthcare reform and transparency. Sharif said that while revolutionising the country's healthcare sector is a daunting task, it is achievable through collective effort. 'It is difficult, but not impossible,' he said. The newly-launched digital platform – initiated under the previous coalition government – will enable medical device manufacturers to complete licensing documentation online and receive approvals within 20 days. This sharply reduces the years-long delays that, according to Sharif, had previously encouraged corruption and inefficiency.


Express Tribune
18-07-2025
- Express Tribune
Pakistan, UK discuss health collaboration
A delegation from the British High Commission on Thursday met with Federal Minister for Health Syed Mustafa Kamal and discussed aligning the UK's support portfolio with Pakistan's health priorities. During the meeting with the delegation led by Acting British High Commissioner and Development Director Ms Jo Moir, the minister highlighted Pakistan's challenges, including a high burden of both communicable and non-communicable diseases. Key reforms discussed included revisiting the NFC Award, suggesting that the current 80% weightage assigned to population be reduced to 50%.