12 Traditional Chinese Medicine
12 Traditional Chinese Medicine
The HEALTH | November-December . 2024
Traditional medicine for modern times
Golden Medical Award 2024 highlights TCM ’ s growing role in Malaysia ’ s healthcare system
BY ZAFIRAH ZAFRUDDIN
DESPITE advances in modern medicine , Traditional Chinese Medicine ( TCM ) principles and practices still offer significant benefits . In Malaysia , TCM has been officially recognised by the Ministry of Health ( MOH ), underscoring its value in the healthcare system .
To celebrate the achievements of outstanding practitioners and businesses in the field , the third Golden Medical Award was held . The ceremony took place in Kuala Lumpur on Oct 21 , 2024 .
Organised by the Federation of Chinese Physicians & Acupuncturists Associations Malaysia ( FCPAAM ), the Golden Medical Award was first held in 2018 . A successful second edition followed this in 2019 .
The third edition took place after an extended gap caused by the Covid-19 pandemic .
FCPAAM President Prof Dr Ng Po Kok stated : “ This year ’ s Golden Medical Award feels especially meaningful .”
He commended the many TCM practitioners who , despite the challenging times , continued to serve patients with unwavering dedication . Their resilience was evident , especially when numerous TCM-related clinics and businesses were on the verge of closing during the pandemic .
Ng reflected on the strong advocacy efforts of political parties , the Chinese League , and TCM organisations . Their joint efforts made it possible for TCM practitioners to continue serving patients , even amidst the peak of the pandemic .
The incident underscored the crucial need for TCM to be included in national healthcare programmes . This inclusion would ensure that its practitioners and services are better supported , particularly in times of crisis .
MOVING FORWARD
The FCPAAM President also spoke on the enforcement of the Traditional and Complementary Medicine ( T & CM ) Act 2016 ( Act 775 ) by the MOH .
“ Activities related to the enforcement and legal proceedings against unlicensed T & CM practitioners have started since Aug 1 , 2024 .
“ Starting Mar 1 , 2025 , practitioners who violate the Act will be subject to legal action .”
This change marks the beginning of
Ng Po Kok delivering the opening speech .
Omega Pork Noodle Sdn Bhd proudly accepts the prestigious Chinese Herbal Cuisine & Health Culture Award .
Ng Po Kok stricter professional standards in the TCM sector .
“ The role of TCM organisations has never been more critical , now that the industry is held to the same regulatory standards as Western medicine ,” Ng remarked .
Although these regulations are a step in the right direction , TCM still lacks the recognition and acceptance of Western medicine .
Naturally , this means TCM practitioners do not receive the same institutional support available to Western medical professionals .
The need for increased government support is further underscored by the oversight of TCM in Malaysia ’ s Budget 2025 . Many advocated for the establishment of a TCM hospital , seeing it as
Group photo of the honourees .
essential for the field ’ s development .
A dedicated TCM hospital would not only expand healthcare options for the public but can also serve as a training centre for TCM practitioners . The absence of financial support in the budget is truly a missed opportunity to strengthen TCM ’ s role in the healthcare system .
Ng also advised TCM practitioners to study the new legal framework thoroughly .
According to Ng : “ Many TCM practitioners are not adequately informed about the T & CM Act 2016 .
“ Even minor compliance violations could lead to severe penalties . TCM organisations need to adapt accordingly as well . TCM organisations need to go beyond simply relaying government