TB Cases Mostly Involve Malaysians, Says Dzulkefly
Malaysia’s Health Minister, Dzulkefly Ahmad, has moved to correct a widespread misconception: tuberculosis (TB) in Malaysia is not primarily driven by migrants.
According to data from the Ministry of Health Malaysia, a striking 85% of reported TB cases involve Malaysian citizens, while only 15% involve foreigners.
The message is clear TB transmission is happening within local communities, and it is a reality Malaysians cannot afford to ignore.
A Long Standing Endemic Issue
TB is not new. It has long been classified as an endemic disease in Malaysia, quietly persisting for decades.
Rather than pointing fingers outward, Dzulkefly stressed that the focus should be on understanding the root causes particularly socio economic factors.
Overcrowded housing, poor ventilation and malnutrition remain key contributors to the spread of the disease.
The Good News: TB Is Curable
Despite being caused by a resilient bacterium, tuberculosis is both preventable and fully treatable.
Early detection is critical.
Malaysians are urged to seek medical attention if they experience:
- Persistent cough lasting more than two weeks
- Fever or night sweats
- Sudden, unexplained weight loss
Treatment requires a minimum of six months of consistent antibiotic therapy. Completing the full course is essential to prevent relapse and drug resistance.
Stop the Stigma
Beyond medical treatment, Dzulkefly highlighted an equally important factor emotional and social support.
TB patients often face stigma, which can discourage them from seeking help or completing treatment. The minister urged families and communities to provide encouragement rather than judgment.
Ending TB requires more than medicine it requires compassion.
Prevention Starts at Home
Parents are reminded to ensure children receive the BCG vaccination, one of the key preventive measures against severe TB in young children.
Additionally:
- Maintain proper home ventilation
- Practice healthy lifestyles
- Prioritise balanced nutrition
The Ministry of Health will continue strengthening active case detection and inter-agency collaboration under a whole-of-government approach to eliminate TB in Malaysia.
The Bottom Line
Tuberculosis is not a “foreign problem.”
It is a Malaysian health challenge — and one that can be defeated with awareness, early action, and collective responsibility.
