KUALA LUMPUR, March 10 — Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad today launched the National Policy for Rare Diseases, highlighting that more than 12,000 Malaysians are receiving treatment for nearly 500 different rare conditions at government hospitals.
Anchored on strengthening clinical governance, improving early diagnosis, and expanding access to specialised treatment and nutritional support, the policy adopts a whole-of-nation approach involving federal and state governments, society, clinical experts, and industry to ensure continuity of care.
Dr Dzulkefly also emphasised Malaysia’s commitment to making rare diseases a regional priority as host of the Asean Health Ministers’ Meeting 2026, advocating inclusivity, solidarity, and sustainable funding, while calling for cross-border collaboration, research.
And patient empowerment to prevent marginalisation and integrate rare diseases into the national healthcare agenda.
