Health Minister Dzulkefly Ahmad clarifies data, dispels link to foreign influx and urges public awareness and early treatment for the endemic disease.

KUALA LUMPUR: Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad has revealed that 85% of tuberculosis (TB) cases in Malaysia involve locals.

Only 15% of reported cases involve foreigners, countering perceptions that link the disease’s spread primarily to foreign nationals.

“This means the risk of transmission within our community is real and should not be taken lightly,” he stated in a Facebook post.

He emphasised that TB is a long-standing endemic disease requiring serious attention from all parties.

The minister described TB as a “poverty-related disease” closely tied to socio-economic factors like crowded living conditions and malnutrition.

“The Mycobacterium Tuberculosis germ is very stubborn, but the good news is that it can be prevented, treated and fully cured if detected early,” Dzulkefly said.

He urged patients to adhere to the antibiotic treatment regimen for at least six months for a full cure.

The public is advised to be aware of symptoms like a persistent cough lasting over two weeks, fever, night sweats, and unexplained weight loss.

Dzulkefly stressed the importance of seeking immediate treatment at clinics upon noticing these signs.

He also advised the public not to shun TB patients, highlighting that emotional support from family and community is key to ensuring treatment completion.

As a preventive measure, parents should ensure their children receive the Bacillus Calmette–Guerin (BCG) immunisation.

Practising a healthy lifestyle and ensuring good home ventilation are also crucial preventive steps.

“The ministry is committed to empowering active detection strategies and collaboration with various agencies,” Dzulkefly added.

He reiterated the government’s whole-of-government approach to ending the tuberculosis endemic in Malaysia.

 The Sun Malaysia