Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad officially clarified today, 18 February 2026, that the vast majority of tuberculosis (TB) cases in the country are concentrated among the local population. Contrary to common public misconceptions that link the disease primarily to foreign workers, official data reveals that 85% of those infected are Malaysian citizens. The minister pointed out that only 15% of cases involve foreign nationals, urging the public to focus on community health safety and early screening rather than shifting blame to outsiders.                                                                                                                                                                                                                          The Ministry of Health categorized TB as a "poverty-related disease," often exacerbated by overcrowded living conditions and poor ventilation in urban areas. Dr. Dzulkefly advised any individual experiencing a persistent cough for more than two weeks to seek immediate medical attention at government clinics. He also reiterated the importance of the BCG immunization for children, which remains the most effective primary defense against the severe complications of the respiratory infection.

To combat the rising numbers, the government is launching a nationwide awareness campaign to educate the public on the symptoms and treatment of TB. Health officials are working to reduce the stigma associated with the disease to encourage more people to step forward for testing. With the current monsoon season causing people to spend more time indoors, the ministry is emphasizing the need for proper air circulation in homes and workplaces to prevent the spread of bacteria.