Health Minister: Malaysians account for majority of TB cases

HEALTH Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad has clarified that the vast majority of tuberculosis (TB) cases in Malaysia involve local citizens, countering public perceptions that foreigners are the primary source of the disease.

According to official data, 85% of reported TB cases affect Malaysians, while only 15% involve foreign nationals.

“Recently, various perceptions have emerged linking the spread of TB to the influx of foreign nationals. However, the facts show otherwise.

Data from the Health Ministry confirms that 85% of reported cases involve local citizens, while only 15% involve foreigners,” Dzulkefly said in a statement on Facebook on Wednesday.

“This means the risk of transmission within our own communities is real and must not be taken lightly.”

The minister emphasised that TB is not only a medical issue but also a disease closely linked to socio-economic conditions, describing it as a “disease of poverty” associated with factors such as overcrowded living conditions and malnutrition.

Dzulkefly reminded the public that TB is not new in Malaysia, noting that it remains endemic and requires sustained attention.

“The Mycobacterium Tuberculosis germ is highly resilient, but the good news is that TB can be prevented, treated, and fully cured if detected early and if patients adhere to at least six months of antibiotic treatment,” he said.

He urged citizens to remain vigilant for symptoms, which include a persistent cough lasting more than two weeks, fever, night sweats, and unexplained weight loss.

Preventive measures include ensuring children receive the BCG vaccination, practising good home ventilation, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

The minister also called for an end to the stigma associated with TB, highlighting the need for public understanding and support for affected individuals.

He added that the Health Ministry continues to strengthen active case detection and coordinate with multiple agencies under a whole-of-government strategy to end TB endemicity in the country.

Recent statistics indicate that a total of 503 new TB cases were reported nationwide up to Epidemiological Week 5 this year, bringing the cumulative total to 2,571 cases.

Sabah recorded the highest number of cases at 614, followed by Selangor with 476, Sarawak with 257, Johor with 233, and Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya with 202 cases combined. - February 18, 2026