KUCHING: Sarawak has achieved a treatment success rate exceeding 90 per cent for tuberculosis (TB), with a continued decline in deaths caused by the disease.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian said TB treatment is effective and easily accessible, but challenges remain in terms of early detection and screening.
“TB is difficult to detect because it resembles a common cough and can remain dormant in a person’s body for a long period before becoming active when the immune system weakens.
“If individuals do not undergo screening, they may not realise they are infected, as the bacteria can stay inactive in the body and only become active when immunity drops,” he said.
He said this during a press conference held in conjunction with the 11th Asia Pacific Regional Conference (APRC 2028) of the International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease at Wisma Bapa Malaysia, here today (Apr 22).
He added that high case numbers are largely influenced by rural and interior areas, which have limited access to healthcare facilities, including shortages of doctors, laboratories and rapid screening services.
“In addition, household crowding and socioeconomic factors, particularly among low-income groups, contribute to delays in seeking treatment,” he said.
Dr Sim also welcomed Malaysia’s selection as host of APRC 2028, which will be held in this city from Mar 23 to 26, 2028.
He said the conference will serve as a platform to develop new strategies and directions in efforts to combat TB over the next decade.
“Major medical conferences like this bring together experts from around the world. When they engage on the ground and share experiences, many new ideas can be proposed.
“This will help governments, both at the federal and state levels, to make informed decisions and take appropriate actions.
“Although we may not have all the financial resources to completely eradicate the disease, at the very least we have a roadmap towards achieving that goal,” he said.
