Health Minister Dzulkefly reveals annual NCD spending surpasses ministry allocation, urging a shift from treatment to prevention and public empowerment
HULU LANGAT: The annual cost of managing non-communicable diseases in Malaysia has reached a staggering RM64.3 billion. This figure exceeds the Health Ministry’s total allocation of RM46.52 billion for the current year.
Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad stressed the urgent need to move beyond a treatment-focused model. He called for a stronger emphasis on prevention and public health empowerment.
“The rise in diabetes cases in Hulu Langat is worrying, with 2,847 new cases recorded over the past two years,” he said. The cumulative number of cases has increased by approximately 10.2%.
He made these remarks at the opening of the Hulu Langat Wellness Hub in Bandar Seri Putra. The hub is part of broader health system reforms aimed at creating a more health-literate society.
This initiative supports the National Health Literacy Policy by helping people make smarter choices for their well-being. It also tackles national issues like stunting and malnutrition through nutrition counselling.
The hub employs a behavioural insights approach to guide people toward healthier habits. It also supports healthy ageing in line with the ministry’s strategic plan for 2026-2030.
Over two million people have used Wellness Hub services nationwide. The Hulu Langat hub alone served more than 19,000 clients last year.
There are now 38 Wellness Hubs across the country, with five new ones opened this year. Dzulkefly encouraged the public to fully utilise these facilities to invest in a healthier future.
The Sun Malaysia