A proud moment for Malaysia, as Kuala Lumpur-born Professor Jacob George has made history by becoming the first Chief Medical and Scientific Officer of the United Kingdom’s Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA).

Raised on the Bukit Rajah estate in Meru, Klang, Professor George’s journey from a humble childhood in Selangor to one of the most influential public health positions in the UK is nothing short of inspiring.

“I’m deeply honoured by this appointment. It reflects not just my personal journey, but also the strength of the Malaysian expatriate community in the United Kingdom and across the world,” he told Bernama.

The 50-year-old academic, who is an expert in Clinical Pharmacology and General Internal Medicine as well as a European Chartered Hypertension Specialist, said he looks forward to contributing to the MHRA’s vital mission.

“The MHRA plays a key role in ensuring the safety and effectiveness of medicines, vaccines and health technologies used daily by millions of people. I look forward to working with colleagues to advance patient care and drive life science innovation,” he said.

According to MHRA, Professor George will officially take on his new role on Jan 5, 2026, based at the agency’s London office and its science campus in Hertfordshire, while continuing to reside in Scotland.

Reflecting on his Malaysian roots, Professor George fondly recalled his early life in Klang. His father worked for Sime Darby Plantation in Bukit Rajah, while his mother served as a physiotherapist at the University Hospital in Petaling Jaya.

“I had a wonderful childhood growing up on a farm, surrounded by love and care from my parents and family,” he shared.

An alumnus of National Primary School (2) Jalan Batu Tiga, Taman Eng Ann, and Anglo-Chinese School (ACS) Klang, Professor George expressed gratitude to his teachers who shaped his early years.

“I’m proud to be a Selangorite. My teachers were exceptional, I still remember Cikgu Subramaniam, who taught geography in primary school. They inspired me in ways I only now fully appreciate,” he said.

Since moving to London in 1995, Professor George has built a distinguished international career. In 2017, he was appointed by Malaysia’s Minister of Health as an International Expert Advisor to the Malaysian Scientific Review Panel for Phase I Clinical Trials, a position he continues to hold.

He currently serves as Professor of Cardiovascular Medicine and Therapeutics at the University of Dundee Medical School, and as a consultant medical specialist and clinical lead for cardiovascular risk.

Professor George’s appointment is a proud milestone not only for him but also for Malaysians everywhere!


Source / Image Credit : Bernama