- LRBT marks Independence Day with flag hoisting and tree plantation drive
Interview with Dr. Malik Ahmed Saeed — (Lt Col Retd), Administrative Superintendent LRBT Hospital, Korangi Karachi
PAGE: Tell me something about yourself, please:
Dr Malik Ahmed Saeed: I’m proud to be both an Iqbalian and a Ravian, having attended the esteemed Government College, Lahore (now University), founded in 1864. I earned my MBBS from the Prestigious King Edward Medical University, Lahore, the oldest college in Pakistan (1860) and sixth oldest Medical School in South Asia.
My journey then led me to serve in the Army Medical Corps for 21 years, where I had the honor of working in diverse environments, including Siachen and the Northern Areas. My experiences extended to the Pakistan Air Force and Navy, where I served on ships and even submarines. A highlight was performing medical duties for the Haj Medical Mission in 1993 and later serving as a Flight Surgeon in Riyadh KSA.
After taking early retirement as a Lt Col in 2004, I continued my passion for medicine in the private sector. My civil service journey includes 13 years of work with charity hospitals, starting with the renovation and running of Karwan-e-Hayat Psychiatric Hospital in 2004. I then became the Medical Superintendent at Ziauddin University Hospital for four years, and for the past eight years, I’ve been with LRBT as the Administrative Superintendent Korangi Hospital. At LRBT, we strive to prevent blindness, providing free eye-care to those in need, saving the sight of millions.
My time as Chief Medical Officer at K-Electric for five years (prior to joining LRBT) also enriched my career.
Each step of my journey has been driven by a deep commitment to serving others and making a difference in their lives. May Allah accept my humble contributions. Ameen.
PAGE: How would LRBT celebrate Pakistan’s Independence Day this year?
Dr Malik Ahmed Saeed: This year, LRBT will celebrate Pakistan’s Independence Day with a series of meaningful activities that reflect our commitment to the nation. The celebrations will begin with a flag hoisting ceremony at all LRBT hospital, symbolising our pride in Pakistan’s journey and our dedication to its future. In addition, we will be launching a tree plantation drive, with the goal of planting trees across our facilities and surrounding communities. This initiative aligns with our environmental responsibility and vision for a greener Pakistan. Through these actions, LRBT will not only honour our country’s independence but also contribute to a healthier and more sustainable future for all Pakistanis.
PAGE: Please tell us about tree plantation at LRBT on August 14, 2024:
Dr Malik Ahmed Saeed: On August 14, 2024, LRBT is excited to enhance our plantation drive by planting a diverse range of trees, including coconut, dates, moringa, gul mohr, neem, and others. This year, we are adding to our existing 37 coconut trees with these new varieties, further enriching our ecosystem. Our plantations also include a variety of fruit-bearing trees like mango, chikoo (sapota), banana, papaya, jamun (java plum), tamarind, lemon, lasura (cordia myxa), bair Jujube), guava, and pomegranate.
These trees are not only beneficial for the environment but also provide fruits that are nutritious for our patients, visitors, and the local community. Additionally, they offer shade and shelter for animals, making our facilities a haven for all living beings. This tree plantation drive is more than just an environmental initiative; it’s a step towards creating a healthier and more sustainable environment for everyone associated with LRBT. Through these efforts, we aim to contribute to the well-being of the community and the environment, embodying the spirit of Independence Day by giving back to the land that nurtures us all.
PAGE: Where do you see Pakistan 10 years from now?
Dr Malik Ahmed Saeed: In ten years, I see Pakistan as a nation that has harnessed its potential to emerge as a stronger and more resilient country. With strategic investments in education, technology, and infrastructure, Pakistan could position itself as a key player in the regional economy.
The country has the potential to improve its healthcare system, develop a robust energy sector, and enhance its agricultural productivity. Politically, I hope for greater stability and governance reforms that foster transparency and accountability. On the social front, progress in gender equality, literacy, and poverty reduction would pave the way for a more inclusive and prosperous society. Overall, while challenges remain, I believe Pakistan has the potential to transform into a more prosperous and dynamic nation within the next decade.