In a five-minute video, Noor Hisham’s classmates and the school’s principal recorded their birthday wishes for the man who is leading the charge against the Covid-19 pandemic in Malaysia.

“Thank you so much for leading this nation in fighting this pandemic. You are doing an excellent job and we are so proud of you,” said Ron Leong, an alumnus of the class of 1983.

Zainal Ashikin Rejab, from the class of 1980, said Noor Hisham had made everyone from the school proud.

“Wishing you happy returns of the day,” said another alumnus, Srikanthan.

“Sorry Hisham, I could not go for grooming,” he quipped, stroking his beard. “We are all staying at home hoping we are staying safe from our wives, but happy birthday.”

Gan Swit Peng meanwhile wished Noor Hisham a blessed birthday and thanked him for helping the nation fight Covid-19.

“We are with you in this fight, take care, God bless you, stay safe.”

The school’s principal, Brendan Ravi Chandran, said everyone connected to the school from its board of governors to its students looked up to Noor Hisham with respect.

“Your perseverance and enthusiasm has earned you this success, so relish every moment of your birthday with pride and dignity.

“We are proud to be associated with you, Dato Seri, as you bring great honour to your alma mater.”

Noor Hisham has served as health DG since March 2013.

His composed handling of questions from the press and his readiness to provide the facts have earned him recognition from China Global TV Network as one of the world’s three top public officials tackling Covid-19.

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