Quick Read
- Malaysia reported 503 new tuberculosis (TB) cases between February 1 and 7, 2026.
- The cumulative number of TB cases nationwide has reached 2,571.
- Sabah recorded the highest number of cases with 614, followed by Selangor (476) and Sarawak (257).
- The Health Ministry urged the public to practice proper cough/sneeze etiquette and wear face masks in crowded areas.
- Individuals with persistent cough, fever, loss of appetite, or unexplained weight loss are advised to seek immediate screening.
KUALA LUMPUR (Azat TV) – Malaysia’s Health Ministry has reported 503 new tuberculosis (TB) cases detected nationwide during the first week of February, from February 1 to 7, 2026. This significant increase brings the cumulative number of TB cases across the country to 2,571, prompting urgent calls from authorities for heightened public vigilance and adherence to preventive measures to curb the spread of the bacterial infection.
The latest figures, released by the Ministry of Health (MOH) in a statement on February 15, underscore an ongoing public health challenge. Tuberculosis, caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis, primarily affects the lungs but can impact other parts of the body. It spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or speaks, releasing airborne germs.
Rising Tuberculosis Cases Across Malaysian States
The 503 new cases recorded in Epidemiological Week 5 of 2026 highlight the persistent nature of the TB outbreak in Malaysia. The overall cumulative total of 2,571 cases indicates a steady progression of the disease across various regions.
Geographically, Sabah continues to bear the highest burden, accounting for 614 cases, or 23.88 percent of the total reported infections. This is followed by Selangor with 476 cases (18.51 percent) and Sarawak with 257 cases (10 percent). Other states also reported substantial numbers, including Johor with 233 cases (9.06 percent) and the Federal Territories of Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya with 202 cases (7.86 percent).
Penang registered 148 cases (5.76 percent), Kedah 144 cases (5.60 percent), and Perak 127 cases (4.94 percent). Lower figures were noted in Kelantan (96 cases), Pahang (81 cases), Terengganu (60 cases), Negeri Sembilan (58 cases), Melaka (42 cases), Perlis (17 cases), and Labuan, which recorded the lowest number with 16 cases (0.62 percent).
Health Ministry Urges Enhanced Prevention and Early Detection
In response to the continued rise in TB cases, the Ministry of Health has reiterated critical advice for the public. With upcoming festive seasons and long holidays, which often involve increased social gatherings and travel, the MOH stressed the importance of maintaining proper hygiene and social responsibility.
Preventive measures emphasized by the Ministry include practicing proper cough and sneeze etiquette, such as covering the mouth and nose with a tissue or elbow, and wearing face masks in crowded public areas. These actions are crucial in minimizing the airborne transmission of the TB bacterium, particularly in high-density environments where close contact is unavoidable.
Furthermore, the MOH urged individuals experiencing symptoms indicative of tuberculosis to seek immediate medical attention. Key symptoms to watch for include a persistent cough that lasts for more than two weeks, fever, unexplained loss of appetite, or significant weight loss. Early screening at the nearest healthcare facility is vital for prompt diagnosis and treatment, which are essential for preventing further spread and ensuring better patient outcomes, as reported by The Straits Times and Malay Mail.
Malaysia’s Ongoing Battle Against Tuberculosis
Malaysia has historically grappled with tuberculosis, and these latest figures underscore the ongoing challenge. The consistent reporting of new cases highlights the need for sustained public health interventions, including robust contact tracing, widespread awareness campaigns, and accessible screening and treatment programs. The government’s focus remains on controlling the outbreak through a combination of public education and clinical management, aiming to reduce infection rates and prevent severe disease outcomes across the population.
The sustained high number of new tuberculosis cases in Malaysia, particularly in populous states like Sabah and Selangor, signifies a critical juncture for public health officials, demanding not only continued surveillance but also a reinforced commitment to community-level engagement and accessible healthcare services to mitigate the outbreak’s impact effectively.