Malaysia Health Minister: 85% of TB Cases Involve Locals

Kuala Lumpur, Feb 18 — Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad said that 85% of tuberculosis (TB) cases reported in Malaysia involve locals, with only 15% affecting foreigners.

He clarified that the common belief linking TB spread to foreign arrivals is inaccurate, as ministry data shows Malaysians currently account for the majority of cases.

“This means the risk of transmission within our community is real and should not be taken lightly,” he wrote on Facebook.

TB has long been present in the country and remains an endemic disease that requires serious attention. The disease is not only a clinical issue but is also closely tied to socio-economic factors, including crowded living conditions and malnutrition.

“The Mycobacterium Tuberculosis germ is very stubborn, but it can be prevented, treated, and fully cured if detected early, and patients follow the six-month antibiotic treatment regimen,” he said.

He urged the public to watch for symptoms such as a cough lasting more than two weeks, fever or night sweats, and weight loss, and to seek immediate treatment at clinics. He also advised against shunning TB patients, emphasizing that family and community support is key to ensuring patients complete their treatment.

As a preventive measure, parents are encouraged to ensure their children receive the Bacillus Calmette–Guerin (BCG) immunisation, maintain a healthy lifestyle, and provide good home ventilation.

“The ministry is committed to active detection strategies and collaboration with various agencies through a whole-of-government approach to end the tuberculosis endemic in Malaysia. Together, let’s protect our families and communities,” he added. — Bernama