Photo: cdc.gov
DENGUE is no longer a seasonal nuisance – it has become a year-round public health crisis in Asean, with rising infection rates, unpredictable outbreaks, and worsening economic consequences. According to the Asean Bio-diaspora Virtual Centre and the World Health Organisation, more than 800,000 cases were reported in Asean countries in 2024, with Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philip-pines, and Thailand recording some of the highest numbers.
But beyond the hospital wards, dengue is draining our economies. A 2021 study published in The Lancet estimated the economic burden of dengue in South-East Asia exceeds US$1bil (RM4.7bil) annually, factoring in healthcare costs, lost productivity, school absenteeism, and vector control efforts.
Subscribe to The Star Yearly Premium Plan for 30% off
Cancel anytime. Ad-free. Full access to Web and App.
Monthly Plan
RM 13.90/month
RM 9.73/month
Billed as RM 9.73 for the 1st month, RM 13.90 thereafter.
Annual Plan
RM 12.39/month
RM 8.63/month
Billed as RM 103.60 for the 1st year, RM 148 thereafter.
