Late detection leads to rising TB cases in Malacca

 

Delays in case detection continue to be a challenge in tackling tuberculosis (TB) in Malacca, said state executive councillor (Health, Human Resources, and Unity) Ngwe Hee Sem.

He said even though all Health Ministry facilities in the state provide free and curable early screening services, the public still takes this potentially fatal disease lightly.

“Every year, around 500 to 700 active TB cases have been recorded in Malacca over the past decade, while 530 cases were recorded last year.

“So, I hope the public is more aware of this disease and recommend that those who experience symptoms such as a cough that lasts for more than two weeks, fever, night sweats, and bloody cough should immediately be screened,” Ngwe said.

He was speaking to reporters at the Sungai Udang state assembly development and coordination committee office today.

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He officiated the Malacca State Level World TB Day 2025 and the Wellness On Wheel Expedition events earlier today, which were held in conjunction with the Sungai Udang state constituency Wakil Rakyat Untuk Rakyat programme.

Also present were the state’s senior executive councillor (Housing, Local Government, Drainage, Climate Change, and Disaster Management) cum Sungai Udang state constituency coordinator Rais Yasin and Malacca Health director Dr Ruzita Mustaffa.

Active, regular screening

Ngwe said various strategies have been carried out by the Health Ministry and state Health Department, including conducting active TB screening in high-risk areas and closed institutions such as prisons.

There has also been collaboration with Socso panel clinics, private clinics, and NGOs to expand access to diagnosis and awareness campaigns through various platforms, he added.

“We want the community to join us in stopping this disease by conducting screening, and this also involves close contacts of TB patients, HIV patients, active smokers, and chronic patients who need to undergo regular screening.

“We have complete and comprehensive treatment that is provided free of charge, and it can be done at the Health Clinic by just taking a sputum sample, towards achieving the target of zero TB by 2035,” he said.

- Bernama