Dato’ Dr Saunthari Somasundaram Elected as Visionary President-Elect of the NCD Alliance (2025–2027)

Some journeys begin with a mission, but evolve into a global movement. For Dato’ Dr Saunthari Somasundaram, that journey has spanned decades of tireless advocacy, countless patients helped, and one unwavering purpose: to ensure no one is left behind in the fight against noncommunicable diseases (NCDs).

In May 2025, that journey reached a new milestone. Dato’ Dr Saunthari was elected as the President-Elect of the NCD Alliance (NCDA) for the 2025–2027 term—becoming the first Malaysian to ever hold the position.

From National Impact to Global Reach

As President and Medical Director of the National Cancer Society Malaysia (NCSM) and Co-Chairperson of NCD Malaysia, Dr Saunthari has spent over 20 years leading grassroots and national efforts to improve cancer care and prevention. She has championed policies that center the patient, fought for health equity, and mentored a new generation of health leaders.

But her vision didn’t stop at national borders. Over the past four years, she has served on the NCDA Board, where she advocated for the inclusion of perspectives from low- and middle-income countries—ensuring that global conversations reflect the realities of communities across Asia, Africa, and beyond.

When Representation Matters: A Voice from the Global South

Dr Saunthari’s election is more than a personal achievement—it is a pivotal moment for the Global South. Representing Southeast Asia and the broader LMIC community, she brings a much-needed lens of equity to the global stage.

“This milestone is not just mine,” she shared. “It’s a reflection of our shared efforts to create a world where health is a right, not a privilege.”

She emphasized that ASEAN’s 600+ million people must have a stronger voice in shaping global health governance—because effective solutions come only when every voice is heard.

Understanding the NCD Alliance

The NCD Alliance (NCDA) is a unique global network of civil society organizations, united by a common goal: to end the preventable suffering, stigma, disability, and death caused by noncommunicable diseases.

Founded in 2009 as an informal alliance by four key health organizations—the International Diabetes Federation, World Heart Federation, Union for International Cancer Control, and the International Union Against TB and Lung Disease—NCDA transitioned into a formal NGO in 2017. Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, it now represents over 425 members across more than 60 countries, including NGOs, academic institutions, and professional bodies.

With strategic relationships with the World Health Organization, United Nations, and governments worldwide, and staff located in Geneva, London, and New York, the Alliance sits at the heart of global health advocacy—driving initiatives that build civil society capacity and shape international policy.

A New Chapter for Global Health

Dr Saunthari’s upcoming presidency coincides with a critical time for global NCD efforts. The United Nations High-Level Meeting on NCDs is approaching, and NCDA’s long-term strategic plan is set to conclude in 2026.

Her leadership, grounded in compassion and bold vision, will help shape the next era of advocacy—where health equity, resilience, and collaboration are central to every initiative.

A Legacy in the Making

Dato’ Dr Saunthari will officially succeed Leslie Rae Ferat, Executive Director of the Global Alliance for Tobacco Control and current NCDA President, in 2026. Together with a newly elected, diverse board, she will work to elevate civil society voices, forge partnerships, and deliver on NCDA’s mission of a healthier, more just world.

Her story is one of perseverance, passion, and purpose. And as she steps into this global leadership role, her message remains clear:

“We cannot solve global health problems without truly global leadership. It’s time to embrace every voice, every perspective, and every community.”

This is not just a win for Malaysia. It’s a powerful step forward for every country striving to reduce the burden of NCDs and ensure that health equity becomes a reality—not just a promise.

Let’s Keep the Conversation Going

As the world continues to face growing challenges in health and equity, stories like Dr Saunthari’s remind us of the impact one dedicated leader can make.

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Because change doesn’t happen in silence—it starts with stories like this.

By: Md Foorquan Hashmi, MD, Sr. Editor, OncoDaily: India Bureau