The government’s Medical Assistance Fund has disbursed over RM788 million to aid more than 84,000 patients since its 2005 launch, ensuring treatment access for the financially burdened.

KOTA BHARU: More than 84,000 patients have received assistance through the Medical Assistance Fund since its introduction in 2005, involving a total allocation exceeding RM788 million.

Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad said the government remains deeply concerned about the financial burden faced by patients, particularly those requiring long-term treatment.

He emphasised that the fund remains a critical instrument to ensure no Malaysian is denied access to treatment due to financial constraints.

A total of 3,884 fund applications were approved by the government last year, amounting to RM58.6 million.

Kelantan ranked fifth highest in receiving this assistance, with 345 cases approved involving RM4.66 million.

Raja Perempuan Zainab II Hospital in Kelantan recorded the highest number of approvals, with 296 cases amounting to RM3.13 million.

Dzulkefly disclosed these details to reporters after presenting fund assistance and food baskets during an Agenda Nasional Malaysia Sihat roadshow event in Kota Bharu.

Commenting on Ramadan bazaars, he said authorities have so far received 12 complaints nationwide related to food hygiene.

He clarified that as of yesterday, no reports of food poisoning at Ramadan bazaars nationwide had been received and no compounds had been issued to traders.

Regarding tuberculosis, the minister noted a decline in new cases during Epidemiological Week 7 this year.

A total of 417 new TB cases were recorded in that period, compared with 482 cases during the same period last year, marking a decrease of 65 cases.

 The Sun Malaysia