PETALING JAYA: Malaysia’s healthcare system is still not adequately prepared for a rapidly ageing population, particularly with the rise in non-communicable diseases (NCDs), says the Malaysian Medical Association.
Its president, Datuk Dr Thirunavukarasu Rajoo, said the nation faces a dual challenge with regard to its ageing population.
“These challenges are a growing ageing population alongside a high and rising burden of NCDs such as diabetes, hypertension, heart disease and cancer,” he said when contacted yesterday.
Dr Thirunavukarasu said gaps remain in critical areas such as strong primary care, long-term care, rehabilitation, community support and geriatric expertise.
“Our workforce and care models are still largely designed around acute, episodic care – not the long-term, complex needs of older patients,” he said.
Without reforms, he added, the combined impact of ageing and NCDs will increasingly strain hospitals, families and society.
He said the nation still has time to prepare but needs a shift towards stronger primary care, expanded geriatric capabilities and integrated, community-based care, with a focus on early prevention to ensure healthier longevity.
Among priorities is strengthening primary care as the frontline of prevention, training more general practitioners with a special interest in geriatric care and improving early detection.
“This is crucial as many Malaysians who suffer from diabetes, hypertension and high cholesterol remain undiagnosed until complications develop,” he noted.
He urged more coordinated management of multiple chronic conditions, with preventive care made accessible and affordable for lower-income groups.
He noted that healthy ageing goes beyond screening and requires sustained investment in health literacy, continuity of care and age-friendly primary care services.
