MCA has urged the government to strengthen enforcement and regulatory measures against illegal healthcare services and unlicensed aesthetic medical treatments, warning that such activities pose serious risks to consumer health and safety.
MCA deputy president Datuk Dr Mah Hang Soon said the growing number of complaints involving unregistered healthcare providers highlighted the need for stronger action by authorities, greater industry compliance and increased public vigilance.
“Illegal healthcare and aesthetic services not only endanger consumers, but also undermine public confidence in the country’s healthcare system,” he said in a statement on Thursday (June 4).
According to Ministry of Health (MOH) data, more than 1,020 complaints involving healthcare services provided by unregistered or unlicensed premises have been recorded since 2021, while complaints related to aesthetic medical services have continued to increase annually.
Under the Private Healthcare Facilities and Services Act 1998 (Act 586), all healthcare services must be provided by registered or licensed premises. Offenders may face fines of up to RM500,000, imprisonment of up to six years, or both.
Dr Mah noted that the MOH has conducted 320 enforcement raids and prosecuted 70 cases to date, demonstrating the scale of the problem and the need for continued vigilance.
He said public education efforts should be intensified to raise awareness of the dangers associated with unlicensed healthcare services.
“Many consumers, especially younger people, are influenced by online advertisements, social media promotions and low prices without verifying whether providers possess the necessary qualifications and licences,” Dr Mah noted.
“The public must understand the risks involved, including infections, disfigurement, long-term health complications and even loss of life.”
Dr Mah also called for a more comprehensive and user-friendly licence verification system, allowing consumers to easily confirm the credentials of healthcare facilities, aesthetic centres and practitioners through official websites, mobile applications or QR code verification tools.
“In the digital age, verifying a provider’s licence status should be quick, accessible and convenient. This will improve consumer confidence and help prevent individuals from unknowingly seeking treatment from unlicensed operators,” he said.
He further urged enforcement agencies to intensify inspections and investigations, particularly in high-risk areas and premises that frequently attract complaints.
“The continued rise in complaints suggests that some operators are still exploiting regulatory gaps. Repeat offenders should face stricter consequences, including prosecution, heavier penalties and public disclosure where appropriate to serve as a deterrent,” he said.
Dr Mah stressed that tackling illegal healthcare services requires stronger cooperation between MOH, local authorities, the police, the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), and the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living.
He said greater information-sharing, joint enforcement operations and cooperation with social media and e-commerce platforms were essential to identify and remove illegal advertisements before they reached a wider audience.
At the same time, he said the public should play a more active role by reporting suspicious activities through accessible channels such as hotlines, mobile applications and online reporting platforms.
“Whistleblowers must be protected through strict confidentiality measures, and the government should consider mechanisms to encourage greater public participation in reporting unlawful activities,” he said.
Dr Mah added that only a coordinated effort involving the government, industry stakeholders and the public could effectively curb illegal medical activities and safeguard consumer health and safety. ‒ Focus Malaysia
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