M'sia warns of rising tuberculosis cases ahead of CNY, 503 new cases recorded

Malaysia’s health authorities have urged the public to remain cautious during upcoming festive celebrations, including Chinese New Year, Ramadan and Hari Raya Aidilfitri, amid an increase in tuberculosis (TB) infections nationwide.

The Ministry of Health recorded 503 new TB cases in the fifth Epidemiological Week of 2026, bringing the cumulative total so far this year to 2,571 cases, according to the New Straits Times.

With families expected to travel and gather for meals and celebrations over the holiday period, officials warned that prolonged close contact could increase the risk of airborne transmission.

Festive gatherings may raise transmission risk

Azrul Mohd Khalib, chief executive of the Galen Centre for Health and Social Policy, said festive seasons often involve large-scale social events that last for hours, creating conditions that can facilitate the spread of TB.

He noted that the situation serves as a reminder of precautions learned during the Covid-19 pandemic, particularly when infections rise alongside busy travel and celebration calendars.

Azrul also stressed that while TB is a long-standing disease with effective treatment available, preventive steps such as wearing masks remain important, especially for those experiencing symptoms or confirmed cases.

Sabah records highest number of infections

Malaysia's Health Ministry data, as reported by the Malay Mail, showed that Sabah reported the highest number of TB cases at 614, followed by:

• Selangor (476)
• Sarawak (257)
• Johor (233)
• Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya (202)

Other states such as Penang, Kedah and Perak also recorded notable figures, while several states reported fewer than 100 cases.

Azrul dismissed claims that imported infections were the main driver, saying the majority of cases remain local, with around 85 per cent involving Malaysians.

TB clusters add to growing concern

The warning comes as Malaysia has also seen multiple TB clusters emerging across the country.

A recent report initially highlighted 10 new TB clusters across seven states, with four out of the 10 clusters found in Selangor.

The ministry has been conducting screenings such as chest X-rays, symptom assessments and checks for latent TB among close contacts, even when individuals do not show immediate signs of illness.

Public urged to mask up

With the festive season approaching, the Ministry of Health advised Malaysians to practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette and to consider wearing face masks in crowded spaces.

Those experiencing symptoms such as a prolonged cough, fever, loss of appetite or weight loss were urged to seek screening at the nearest health facility.

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