Sandakan: More than 170 physiotherapy centres in Sabah have yet to register with the Malaysian Allied Health Professions Council (MAHPC), raising concerns over patient safety and professional accountability.
Sabah Physiotherapy Association president Herman Sanny (pic) said only about 30 of an estimated 200 physiotherapy centres in the State have completed the registration process.
He added that only about half of the 100 freelance physiotherapists identified by the association have registered, although the actual number operating in Sabah could be higher.
"The percentage among private-sector practitioners is very low and worrying. To be honest, many practitioners are not even aware of these requirements," he said.
Under the Allied Health Professions Act 2016 (Act 774), physiotherapists are required to register with the MAHPC and obtain a valid practising certificate before providing treatment.