KUALA LUMPUR — Senior Consultant Cardiothoracic Surgeon at Institut Jantung Negara (IJN), Prof Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey Jeswant Dillon, has become the first Malaysian elected to the American Association for Thoracic Surgery (AATS) — a breakthrough that places Malaysia on the global cardiothoracic stage.
Founded in 1917, the AATS is the world’s leading body for advancing surgical innovation and patient care. Membership is highly selective, reserved for surgeons of sustained excellence and international impact.
“This award is recognition of decades of sacrifice — long hours in clinical practice, academia and research. It feels less like a title bestowed, more an acknowledgment that the sacrifices mattered,” Dr Jeswant said.
A UKM graduate, Dr Jeswant trained at IJN before completing an advanced fellowship at the Mayo Clinic, later heading IJN’s Cardiothoracic Surgery Department. His expertise spans valve repair, minimally invasive cardiac surgery, coronary bypass and video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery.
The recognition has sparked national applause. Health Minister Datuk Seri Dzulkefly Ahmad hailed the achievement on X, writing:
“Kudos, Prof DS Dr Jeswant Dillon! You have truly made Malaysia proud. Your historic election to AATS is a testament to a lifetime of excellence and service. A patriot flying the Jalur Gemilang high and inspiring future generations. Malaysia salutes you!”
As president of the Malaysian Association for Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery (MATCVS), Dr Jeswant hopes the honour will open doors for younger surgeons through mentorship, fellowships and global collaborations.
“By being the first recipient from Malaysia, it has placed us on the global cardiothoracic landscape. I hope this visibility paves the way for future specialists and trainees,” he added. – June 1, 2026