Taiping isn’t just known for its rain and serene lakes anymore. It’s now the heart of stroke care excellence in Malaysia. On 30 October 2025, this historic town officially earned the title of Malaysia’s first Angels Region. It’s a recognition that celebrates teamwork, speed, and the power of saving lives.
When A Town Becomes A Lifesaver
The award, presented by the Angels Initiative in collaboration with the World Stroke Organization (WSO), recognizes Taiping’s commitment to one crucial mission: helping stroke patients recover faster and live better.
A Heroic Collaboration Behind Every Life Saved
This achievement wasn’t a solo act. The Perak State Health Department, Hospital Taiping, Pejabat Kesihatan Daerah Larut Matang dan Selama (LMS), Pejabat Pendidikan Daerah LMS, and KEMAS Taiping joined forces to create a stroke-ready ecosystem that works efficiently.
Hospital Taiping didn’t just stop there. It proudly earned two international recognitions. They are the World Stroke Organisation (WSO) Angels Award Q2 2025 Platinum Status and the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Angels Award Q2 2025 Diamond Status, proving that quality, speed, and care can go hand-in-hand when every minute matters.
Teaching Kids To Be Stroke Heroes
Through the FAST Heroes campaign, 777 children learned to recognize stroke symptoms and teach their families to act fast when every second counts. Supported by the World Stroke Organization, this award-winning school-based program makes heroes out of kids by helping them protect their loved ones. Fourteen schools and organizations in Taiping earned certification for their efforts. This proves that stroke awareness can start with a story told at home.
A Model For Malaysia’s Future In Stroke Care
According to Dr. Feisul Idzwan Mustapha, Perak State Health Director, this milestone represents a reflection of Malaysia’s growing strength in fighting non-communicable diseases. Through initiatives like the Angels Initiative, the Ministry of Health is building a network of hospitals and healthcare professionals ready to respond when stroke strikes.
The Angels Region recognition is part of the 100 Angels Region Strategy, a global effort launched in 2024 to transform 100 regions into fully coordinated, stroke-ready ecosystems by 2027. Each region must excel in four pillars: community awareness, fast emergency services, ready hospitals, and continuous data-driven improvements.
A Global Mission With A Malaysian Heart
Since 2016, the Angels Initiative, supported by Boehringer Ingelheim, has helped over 6,000 hospitals worldwide improve stroke care. This initiative has saved an estimated 7.5 million lives. Taiping’s success now puts Malaysia on the global map. With collaboration, compassion, and community spirit, even a small town can make a world-changing difference.
