The recent rise in tuberculosis (TB) cases and concerns over the potential spread of the Nipah virus warrant serious attention. Both of these diseases carry significant implications for the nation’s public health security. Moreover, the rakyat certainly does not wish to see a repeat of March 2020, when the country was forced to implement the Movement Control Order (MCO) following the spread of COVID-19, which had a major impact on people’s lives as well as the national economy.

As a result of the COVID-19 outbreak, a total of 36,967 deaths were recorded between 2020 and 10 March 2023, while the economy contracted by 5.6% in 2020, the worst recession since the 1998 Asian Financial Crisis. If Malaysia’s economic size (GDP) in 2019 was around RM1.51 trillion and the economy shrank by 5.6% in 2020, this is equivalent to about RM84 billion, a significant loss to the country. National economy aside, many lives were lost, and we must put effort into preventing a more serious outbreak of TB and the Nipah virus.

Outbreaks are not defined by scale. It is not a question of whether they are small or large; any surge in disease must be treated with seriousness. Ultimately, what matters is how the government responds. Economically, money can be earned again, but the health and lives of Malaysians must remain the top priority.

In this regard, acknowledgement and praise should be extended to the Johor state government for acting swiftly to curb the spread of TB. Johor Health and Environment Committee Chairman Ling Tian Soon said the Johor Health Department had taken proactive measures after a TB cluster emerged in the district on 25 January 2026.

Residents confirmed positive for TB were required to undergo home quarantine and were provided with medical treatment, including medication. The government needs to replicate these steps, as what the people need is a government that is present in times of hardship and extends assistance when it is most needed. This is important to ensure that no one feels abandoned in the face of adversity.

From a holistic perspective, whether dealing with TB, the Nipah virus, or any other infectious disease, the Ministry of Health must expand screening and early detection, particularly in high risk areas such as densely populated settlements, detention centres, workers’ hostels and vulnerable communities. Close contact monitoring must be strengthened to curb transmission at an early stage.

The government must also implement clear and accessible public education and awareness campaigns to ensure the public is alert to early symptoms, modes of transmission and timely treatment. People must be educated not to delay seeking medical attention if they experience suspicious symptoms.

In regards to the Nipah virus, the government must enhance inter-ministerial cooperation in monitoring animal carriers such as bats and livestock. This step is necessary as the virus can spread to humans through wildlife and livestock, and is also capable of human to human transmission.

Preparedness of our country’s healthcare system must also be strengthened through regular training for healthcare workers, increased laboratory capacity and isolation facilities, and the provision of adequate personal protective equipment (PPE).

MCA recognises that the threat of infectious diseases such as TB and the Nipah virus cannot be resolved in the short term and requires ongoing monitoring and regular screening. However, it also requires a comprehensive approach, including early prevention, multi stakeholder cooperation, and community participation.

Datuk Ir. Lawrence Low
MCA Vice President

6 February 2026

-MCA Comm-