As of July 11, a total of 888,626 individuals have participated in health screenings under the National Health Screening Initiative (NHSI), Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr. Dzulkefly Ahmad announced. Those identified as being at risk for diabetes are referred to health clinics for further diagnosis and treatment.
The Health Ministry has launched several nationwide efforts to ensure that high-risk groups can access screening services. The NHSI targets Malaysians aged 18 and above, and screenings can be scheduled at any health facility via the MySejahtera app.
In addition to NHSI, collaboration with private health clinics registered under the PeKa B40 scheme allows free health screenings for low-income groups, focusing on early detection of non-communicable diseases (NCDs).
The ministry also partners with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and the Social Security Organisation through community programs such as Komuniti Sihat Pembina Negara (Kospen) and Kospen WOW (Wellness of Workers). So far, 192,862 individuals have been screened under these Kospen initiatives.
Dr. Dzulkefly made these remarks in response to questions from Mohd Misbahul Munir Masduki (PN-Parit Buntar), who inquired about efforts to raise awareness and promote early detection of diabetes, particularly in communities where late diagnosis is common.
The government’s comprehensive strategy includes the Agenda Nasional Malaysia Sihat (ANMS), which aims to strengthen health promotion and NCD control nationwide. Key programs under ANMS include training community health agents called MyChampions, who deliver health messages focused on behavioral changes and encourage early disease detection.
The ministry also deploys 16 mobile screening units called Wellness on Wheels (WOW) across the country and runs weight management programs at 33 wellness hubs to address risk factors associated with NCDs.
To foster personal responsibility for health, the ministry promotes the Putrajaya Sihat Sejahtera 2024-2030 initiative, involving 26 ministries to improve self-care practices among civil servants.
Health advocacy efforts involve clinical experts, public health specialists, and influencers, with messages distributed through mass media and digital platforms, including social media, to reach all segments of society effectively.
