The Association of Private Hospitals Malaysia (APHM) has urged the government to make disease prevention, health education and healthier living key priorities in Budget 2027, particularly in addressing non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and lifestyle-related risks.
APHM president Datuk Dr Kuljit Singh said many NCDs — including type 2 diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease and obesity — are linked to lifestyle, diet and environmental factors. These conditions can often be prevented, delayed or managed more effectively through earlier intervention.
He said unhealthy choices should no longer remain the easiest or cheapest option for Malaysians.
Dr Kuljit said proposals by the Galen Centre, an independent public-policy research and advocacy organisation, deserved serious consideration. These include removing sugar subsidies and introducing stronger fiscal measures to discourage unhealthy consumption.
At the same time, he said public resources should be redirected towards making healthy options more accessible and affordable. This could include subsidies for fresh fruit and vegetables, whole and minimally processed food, community exercise initiatives and nutrition education.
“Budget 2027 offers an opportunity to build a stronger culture of health in Malaysia, where healthy habits are part of everyday life rather than relying solely on individual effort,” he said.
He added that the same approach should apply to health screening and early detection. Targeted subsidies and public funding could make NCD screening and preventive care more accessible, especially for people who delay treatment because of cost.
Dr Kuljit also said people should not avoid early diagnosis out of concern that their medical condition could affect insurance coverage, employment or other areas of their lives.
On healthcare delivery, he said continued support for the Hospital Services Outsourcing Programme could help relieve pressure on public hospitals by allowing selected cases to be treated by private healthcare providers.
Private hospitals have also proposed digitalising licensing processes under the Private Medical Practice Control Section to improve regulatory efficiency and reduce administrative delays.
They further called for sustained funding for key healthcare institutions and quality-assurance bodies, including the Malaysian Medical Council, Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council and Malaysian Society for Quality in Health.
“Making healthier choices the easier choice will, over time, substantially reduce the burden and cost faced by the healthcare system,” he said.
The post APHM Urges Budget 2027 to Prioritise Prevention, Health Education and Healthier Living Culture first appeared on PP Health Malaysia (PPHM) | 10POINTS Evidence-Based Health News.
