Malaysian Medical Association urges stronger crackdowns on illegal clinics

The Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) has demanded more rigorous, intelligence-driven enforcement following the latest discovery of suspected illegal clinics and the confiscation of unregistered medicines and medical gear. MMA president Dr L. Sivanaesan said the recurrence, only months after earlier raids, shows that current measures are insufficient. He warned that unqualified individuals using unregistered drugs, injections and equipment pose serious risks to patients and could exacerbate antimicrobial resistance.

The association called for coordinated inspections of suspect premises, regular follow-ups, and tracking of the supply chain, including tighter controls at entry points to block illegal imports. Sivanaesan also urged the government to address healthcare access for undocumented migrants, who may avoid registered facilities for fear of enforcement, leaving them exposed to illegal providers. The Health Ministry previously announced plans to intensify actions against unlicensed facilities after receiving over 1,020 complaints since 2021.