KUALA LUMPUR – Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad revealed that 85% of tuberculosis (TB) cases reported in Malaysia involve Malaysians, with only 15% attributed to foreigners.
In a Facebook post today, he emphasised that the belief that foreigners are responsible for the spread of TB is misleading. According to the Health Ministry’s data, the majority of cases are among the local population, Bernama reported.
“This means the risk of transmission within our community is real and should not be taken lightly,” he said.
Dr Dzulkefly noted that TB is not a new issue in public health, stressing that it remains an endemic disease requiring serious attention. He highlighted the disease’s connection to socio-economic factors such as overcrowded living conditions and malnutrition, which contribute to its spread.
“The Mycobacterium Tuberculosis germ is very stubborn, but the good news is that it can be prevented, treated and fully cured if detected early, and patients adhere to the antibiotic treatment regimen for at least six months,” he explained.
The Minister encouraged the public to be vigilant for TB symptoms, including a persistent cough lasting more than two weeks, fever, night sweats, and weight loss, and to seek immediate treatment at clinics.
He also urged Malaysians to offer emotional support to TB patients, as completing the full course of treatment is crucial for recovery.
Dr Dzulkefly reiterated the importance of vaccination, urging parents to ensure their children receive the Bacillus Calmette–Guerin (BCG) immunisation. He also advised maintaining a healthy lifestyle and ensuring good ventilation in homes to prevent the disease.
“The ministry is committed to empowering active detection strategies and collaborating 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 concluded. – February 18, 2026