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THE country recorded 417 new tuberculosis cases during the seventh epidemiological week of this year, a decline from the same period in 2025, as health authorities credit sustained control measures for the downward trend.
Health Minister Dzulkefly Ahmad said the figure represented 65 fewer cases than the 482 reported in the corresponding week last year, describing the reduction as an encouraging sign of the ministry’s prevention and monitoring efforts.
“Alhamdulillah, so far, no new clusters have been reported and cases are showing a downward trend.
“We hope this consistency continues. Even though the numbers are decreasing, the ministry will not compromise on monitoring and enforcement to ensure the infection is fully controlled.
“Efforts to expand early screening among high-risk groups and increase public awareness about seeking immediate treatment will be intensified,” he said after attending the Agenda Nasional Malaysia Sihat roadshow and a Perdana Iftar event.
He stressed that while the decline was positive, tuberculosis remains a notifiable infectious disease requiring sustained surveillance, particularly among vulnerable and high-risk populations.
In a separate update, Dzulkefly said the ministry had received 12 complaints regarding food hygiene at Ramadan bazaars nationwide as of Saturday, four of which were submitted via WhatsApp.
“Furthermore, no compounds have been issued to Ramadan bazaar traders as compliance levels have been encouraging so far,” he said, adding that no food poisoning cases had been reported to date.
Health authorities are expected to continue inspections throughout the fasting month to ensure food safety standards are upheld. - March 2, 2026