The HEALTH | March-April. 2026

The Health Ministry has begun rolling out digital systems to strengthen hospital operations and improve patient care. The Total Hospital Information System( THIS) has been introduced in 16 hospitals, and the Cloud-Based Clinic Management System( CCMS) has been implemented in more than 2,400 facilities nationwide.

Deputy Health Minister Hanifah Hajar Taib said digitalisation is also supporting the expansion of telemedicine services and digital platforms, particularly in rural areas where access to medical facilities can be more limited.

" We have introduced the AI-driven diagnostics and real-time data dashboards to monitor healthcare facilities, while increasing access to digital platforms and telemedicine in remote areas," she stated during the soft launch of Health Summit Asia( HSA) 2026.

The government ' s digital healthcare push is part of a broader set of key priorities supported by the RM46.52 billion allocation for the healthcare sector under the 2026 Budget. The funding, which represents a 2.76 per cent increase from the previous year, reflects continued investment in strengthening national healthcare capacity.

Beyond improving treatment delivery, the ministry is also placing greater emphasis on preventive care and sustainable public health outcomes. Hanifah said these efforts are guided by the Agenda Nasional Malaysia Sihat, which seeks to promote healthier lifestyles while strengthening healthcare accessibility.

" The ministry ' s goal is to guarantee a healthier Malaysia by providing equitable, accessible,

AI HEALTH FUTURE: Deputy Health Minister, Datuk Hanifah Hajar Taib( centre), with Qube Integrated Malaysia Executive Chairman, Richard Teo( third from left), and Green Wellness Malaysia founder and Managing Director, Dorph Peng( fifth from left), during the launch gimmick at the soft launch of Health Summit Asia 2026.

and sustainable healthcare," she added.

Industry engagement is expected to play an important role in supporting this transformation. Platforms such as Health Summit Asia( HSA) 2026 are intended to bring together policymakers, healthcare providers, and technology developers to explore innovations that could shape the future of healthcare services.

The summit combines the Southeast Asia Healthcare and Pharma Show with the International Wellness Expo. The programme

is expected to highlight emerging technologies, pharmaceutical developments, and preventive health strategies.

The summit on May 20-22 is projected to generate up to RM1.5 billion in commercial opportunities across the ASEAN healthcare and wellness market.

By convening stakeholders from across the healthcare ecosystem, the event aims to encourage collaboration and investment in integrated healthcare solutions for the region.

THE Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living( KPDN) has recently seized RM1.33 million worth of suspected counterfeit health products, raising concerns about the risks posed by unregulated items circulating in the consumer market.

The Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Malaysia ' s operation highlights a growing issue: fake healthcare products becoming increasingly accessible through online platforms and informal sales channels.

Chief Pharmacist of Alpro Pharmacy, Lim En Ni, stressed that counterfeit health products are not simply ineffective but can pose serious health dangers. She warned that such items may contain unknown substances, incorrect dosages, or undeclared pharmaceutical ingredients that could lead to harmful side effects.

" There will be serious consequences if consumers use these products to manage their health," she added.

Lim stated that the risks extend beyond supplements and medications, including medical devices such as blood pressure monitors and glucose meters. She explained that faulty or unregistered devices may produce inaccurate

Lim En Ni readings, potentially leading users to make incorrect health decisions.

" Inaccurate measurements can delay proper treatment or worsen existing conditions," she explained, noting that false readings could cause patients to overlook serious health issues.

Lim also raised concerns about hidden ingredients in counterfeit supplements, including undeclared steroids or prescription substances. Prolonged use of such products may result in complications affecting the liver, kidneys or heart, as well as severe allergic reactions.

Another key concern is delayed medical care. Consumers who rely on unverified products may unknowingly allow underlying conditions to deteriorate without appropriate treatment. To reduce these risks, the public is advised to verify whether products are registered with authorities such as the Medical Device Authority( MDA) under the Ministry of Health Malaysia for medical devices and the National Pharmaceutical Regulatory Agency( NPRA) for medicines or health supplements.

It is also advisable for consumers to look for the Meditag Security Hologram sticker, which indicates that the medicines in Malaysia are registered and have passed regulatory approval.

In addition, registered medical devices typically carry a Medical Device Registration Number on the product packaging and official markings, and registered pharmaceutical items in Malaysia would display a " MAL " registration number on the packaging.

Consumers are also encouraged to purchase only from licensed pharmacies or authorised distributors, and to be cautious of products that promise unrealistic results or are sold at unusually low prices.

The incident serves as a reminder that while access to health products has become more convenient, it also increases exposure to unregulated items. Careful verification and professional consultation remain essential in ensuring safety.

" Verifying a product for a few minutes can help prevent serious health risks," Ph. Lim emphasised, urging consumers to prioritise trusted sources when making healthcare decisions.- The HEALTH