Malaysia faces 50,000 new cancer cases yearly; Health Minister urges early screenings and funding to improve detection, treatment, and infrastructure.

KUALA LUMPUR – Health Minister Dzulkefly Ahmad has urged Malaysians to undergo regular health screenings, warning that late detection remains a critical challenge in battling cancer.

He said over 50,000 new cancer cases are recorded annually, with most detected only at stage three or four, when treatment becomes more difficult and costly. Dzulkefly stressed that the financial and emotional toll on families can be devastating.

Cancer Cases Rising

The Health Ministry, in collaboration with the National Cancer Society of Malaysia (NCSM) and NGOs, will roll out a nationwide screening initiative targeting over one million people.

He highlighted breast, colorectal, lung and prostate cancers as the most common. Dzulkefly also called for strong funding support in Budget 2026 to strengthen healthcare infrastructure and staff welfare.