Today's Health News Recap
Hospital Picaso Hosts Milestone Event In Robotic And Minimally Invasive Surgery
By driving international collaboration, continuous professional development, and patient-centred innovation, Hospital Picaso is committed to raising the standard of care across Asia.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/09/hospital-picaso-hosts-milestone-event-in-robotic-and-minimally-invasive-surgery/
Cheap Care Isn’t Necessarily Cheap Care Without Quality And Sustainability
As Malaysia reforms its health ecosystem, we must not be distracted by the false promise of “cheap care”. Instead, we should pursue affordable, quality care anchored in value, continuity, and sustainability.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/09/cheap-care-isnt-necessarily-cheap-care-without-quality-and-sustainability-dr-raymond-choy/
Duopharma Biotech Appoints Group Chief Executive Officer
Wan Amir-Jeffery, the current Chief Executive Officer – Group Operations, will start in his new role beginning October 1, 2025
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/09/duopharma-biotech-appoints-group-chief-executive-officer/
Mavma Highlights Dire Vet Shortage, SST Impacting Vet Clinics And Livestock Industry
At its annual conference, Mavma raises the critical shortage of veterinary professionals, the impact of SST on vet clinics and the livestock industry, and social issues like animal welfare and cyberbullying. Mavma’s new leadership was elected at its AGM.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/09/mavma-highlights-dire-vet-shortage-sst-impacting-vet-clinics-and-livestock-industry/
When Politicians Lecture Doctors About Sacrifice
PMPASKL president Dr Eugene Chooi says governments rise and fall, and politicians come and go, but society can’t survive without doctors. “Our leaders defend their own perks and chastise the very professionals whose departure would collapse the system.”
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/09/when-politicians-lecture-doctors-about-sacrifice-dr-eugene-chooi/
Fund On-Call Allowance Raise With Pro-Health Taxes: Kuala Langat MP
Kuala Langat MP Dr Ahmad Yunus Hairi disagrees with cutting MPs’ allowances, especially since Opposition MPs don’t receive constituency allocations, but suggests that pro-health tax revenue be diverted to fund a 25% increase in doctors’ on-call allowance.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/09/fund-on-call-allowance-raise-with-pro-health-taxes-kuala-langat-mp/
Don’t Leave Rural Klinik Kesihatan Doctors Behind In On-Call Allowance Review
An MO serving a KK in Kelantan demands either a new ETAP rate of RM25/hour or 50% raise for all medical personnel. “The workload during on-call hours in a rural KK is unsupported, high-stakes, and often requires single-person management of critical cases.”
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/09/dont-leave-rural-klinik-kesihatan-doctors-behind-in-on-call-allowance-review-medical-officer/
MOPI Touts Generics Use In Private Health Care
MOPI touts the use of quality, affordable generics in private health care. If there’s a generic/biosimilar option, this must be offered to empower patient choice. “The availability of generics and biosimilars expands, rather than limits, treatment options.”
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/09/mopi-touts-generics-use-in-private-health-care/
Turn Awareness Into Action For Breast Cancer Among Malaysian Women
Early detection of breast cancers in the asymptomatic phase translates to much higher cure and overall survival rates.
https://ova.galencentre.org/turn-awareness-into-action-for-breast-cancer-among-malaysian-women/
Hospital Picaso Hosts Milestone Event In Robotic And Minimally Invasive Surgery
By driving international collaboration, continuous professional development, and patient-centred innovation, Hospital Picaso is committed to raising the standard of care across Asia.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/09/hospital-picaso-hosts-milestone-event-in-robotic-and-minimally-invasive-surgery/
Cheap Care Isn’t Necessarily Cheap Care Without Quality And Sustainability
As Malaysia reforms its health ecosystem, we must not be distracted by the false promise of “cheap care”. Instead, we should pursue affordable, quality care anchored in value, continuity, and sustainability.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/09/cheap-care-isnt-necessarily-cheap-care-without-quality-and-sustainability-dr-raymond-choy/
Duopharma Biotech Appoints Group Chief Executive Officer
Wan Amir-Jeffery, the current Chief Executive Officer – Group Operations, will start in his new role beginning October 1, 2025
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/09/duopharma-biotech-appoints-group-chief-executive-officer/
Mavma Highlights Dire Vet Shortage, SST Impacting Vet Clinics And Livestock Industry
At its annual conference, Mavma raises the critical shortage of veterinary professionals, the impact of SST on vet clinics and the livestock industry, and social issues like animal welfare and cyberbullying. Mavma’s new leadership was elected at its AGM.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/09/mavma-highlights-dire-vet-shortage-sst-impacting-vet-clinics-and-livestock-industry/
When Politicians Lecture Doctors About Sacrifice
PMPASKL president Dr Eugene Chooi says governments rise and fall, and politicians come and go, but society can’t survive without doctors. “Our leaders defend their own perks and chastise the very professionals whose departure would collapse the system.”
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/09/when-politicians-lecture-doctors-about-sacrifice-dr-eugene-chooi/
Fund On-Call Allowance Raise With Pro-Health Taxes: Kuala Langat MP
Kuala Langat MP Dr Ahmad Yunus Hairi disagrees with cutting MPs’ allowances, especially since Opposition MPs don’t receive constituency allocations, but suggests that pro-health tax revenue be diverted to fund a 25% increase in doctors’ on-call allowance.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/09/fund-on-call-allowance-raise-with-pro-health-taxes-kuala-langat-mp/
Don’t Leave Rural Klinik Kesihatan Doctors Behind In On-Call Allowance Review
An MO serving a KK in Kelantan demands either a new ETAP rate of RM25/hour or 50% raise for all medical personnel. “The workload during on-call hours in a rural KK is unsupported, high-stakes, and often requires single-person management of critical cases.”
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/09/dont-leave-rural-klinik-kesihatan-doctors-behind-in-on-call-allowance-review-medical-officer/
MOPI Touts Generics Use In Private Health Care
MOPI touts the use of quality, affordable generics in private health care. If there’s a generic/biosimilar option, this must be offered to empower patient choice. “The availability of generics and biosimilars expands, rather than limits, treatment options.”
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/09/mopi-touts-generics-use-in-private-health-care/
Turn Awareness Into Action For Breast Cancer Among Malaysian Women
Early detection of breast cancers in the asymptomatic phase translates to much higher cure and overall survival rates.
https://ova.galencentre.org/turn-awareness-into-action-for-breast-cancer-among-malaysian-women/
Today's Health News Recap
Evidence-Based Practices For Neurodevelopmental Disorders And Autism
Experts agree that autism is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder influenced by many genetic and environmental factors, with no known single cause.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/evidence-based-practices-for-neurodevelopmental-disorders-and-autism-developmental-paediatrics-consensus-group-college-of-paediatrics-academy-of-medicine-of-malaysia/
Vaccines For The Heart
Dr Azmee Mohd Ghazi explains why protecting against RSV belongs in Malaysia’s cardiovascular playbook, other than influenza and pneumococcal infections.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/vaccines-for-the-heart/
Asia's Leading Experts Hold Gastrointestinal Consensus Meeting On Rapid Molecular Syndromic Testing
QIAGEN, in collaboration with APAGE, organised a regional meeting in Malaysia to share insights in GI diagnostics. Rapid multiplex GI syndromic testing should be recommended over conventional testing to improve treatment decisions and patient outcomes.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/asias-leading-experts-hold-gastrointestinal-consensus-meeting-on-rapid-molecular-syndromic-testing/
Prioritising Mental Health Support When Crisis Hits: WMHD 2025
The psychological scars of a crisis can endure for years, long after the physical damage is repaired. If we fail to prioritise mental health, we risk allowing these invisible wounds to shape survivors’ lives indefinitely.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/prioritising-mental-health-support-when-crisis-hits-wmhd-2025-dr-lim-poh-khuen/
Rakan KKM Shatters ‘The Great Equaliser’ Role Of Government Hospitals
Whether rich or poor, everyone is treated the same in government hospitals. But Rakan KKM smashes the role of public hospitals as The Great Equaliser of Malaysian society by fast-tracking wealthier patients who can pay to cut the queue, says Dr Carollyn Kek.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/rakan-kkm-shatters-the-great-equaliser-role-of-government-hospitals-dr-carollyn-kek-chee-yen/
Pharmacogenomics: Transforming The Way Medicines Are Used
The answer to why some medicines work on some people and not others can be found in our genetic makeup. Prof Dr Mai Chun Wai from IMU University explains.
https://ova.galencentre.org/pharmacogenomics-transforming-the-way-medicines-are-used/
Evidence-Based Practices For Neurodevelopmental Disorders And Autism
Experts agree that autism is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder influenced by many genetic and environmental factors, with no known single cause.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/evidence-based-practices-for-neurodevelopmental-disorders-and-autism-developmental-paediatrics-consensus-group-college-of-paediatrics-academy-of-medicine-of-malaysia/
Vaccines For The Heart
Dr Azmee Mohd Ghazi explains why protecting against RSV belongs in Malaysia’s cardiovascular playbook, other than influenza and pneumococcal infections.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/vaccines-for-the-heart/
Asia's Leading Experts Hold Gastrointestinal Consensus Meeting On Rapid Molecular Syndromic Testing
QIAGEN, in collaboration with APAGE, organised a regional meeting in Malaysia to share insights in GI diagnostics. Rapid multiplex GI syndromic testing should be recommended over conventional testing to improve treatment decisions and patient outcomes.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/asias-leading-experts-hold-gastrointestinal-consensus-meeting-on-rapid-molecular-syndromic-testing/
Prioritising Mental Health Support When Crisis Hits: WMHD 2025
The psychological scars of a crisis can endure for years, long after the physical damage is repaired. If we fail to prioritise mental health, we risk allowing these invisible wounds to shape survivors’ lives indefinitely.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/prioritising-mental-health-support-when-crisis-hits-wmhd-2025-dr-lim-poh-khuen/
Rakan KKM Shatters ‘The Great Equaliser’ Role Of Government Hospitals
Whether rich or poor, everyone is treated the same in government hospitals. But Rakan KKM smashes the role of public hospitals as The Great Equaliser of Malaysian society by fast-tracking wealthier patients who can pay to cut the queue, says Dr Carollyn Kek.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/rakan-kkm-shatters-the-great-equaliser-role-of-government-hospitals-dr-carollyn-kek-chee-yen/
Pharmacogenomics: Transforming The Way Medicines Are Used
The answer to why some medicines work on some people and not others can be found in our genetic makeup. Prof Dr Mai Chun Wai from IMU University explains.
https://ova.galencentre.org/pharmacogenomics-transforming-the-way-medicines-are-used/
Today's Health News Recap
TPA’s Local Anaesthesia-First Policy Breaches Medical Ethics: MMA
MMA denounces a TPA’s directive to panel hospitals on the choice of anaesthesia (LA over GA) and the classification of certain procedures as daycare/inpatient as interference in clinical autonomy and a breach of medical ethics. MMA demands action from MOH.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/tpas-local-anaesthesia-first-policy-breaches-medical-ethics-mma/
MediExpress’ Anaesthesia Directive Is Dangerous, Illegal, And Unacceptable
DRSFORALL condemns MediExpress’ local anaesthesia (LA)-first policy for panel hospitals as unacceptable interference with clinical practice that endangers patients and exposes doctors/hospitals to medico-legal liability. It’s also unlawful under Act 586.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/mediexpress-anaesthesia-directive-is-dangerous-illegal-and-unacceptable-drsforall/
Ex-Health DG Slams TPA’s Directive To Prioritise Local Over General Anaesthesia
Ex-Health DG Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah, who is UCSI Healthcare Group chair and a surgeon, tells MediExpress not to “cross the line of the medical profession”, as “safety comes first”. The TPA ordered hospitals to prioritise local over general anaesthesia.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/ex-health-dg-slams-tpas-directive-to-prioritise-local-over-general-anaesthesia/
Australia’s Mental Health Services Are Buckling
Interventions such as formal support systems are needed for Australia’s exhausted, overwhelmed mental health nurses.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/australias-mental-health-services-are-buckling/
Reform Must Target Public Health Care, Not Private Sector: APHM
APHM president Dr Kuljit Singh says health care reform should target the public health care system, rather than the private sector. “Reform simply cannot begin nor end with the private sector because, ultimately, that is not where the tipping point lies.”
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/reform-must-target-public-health-care-not-private-sector-aphm/
TPA Instructs Panel Hospitals To Prioritise Local Over General Anaesthesia
MediExpress orders panel hospitals to prioritise local anaesthesia as the first-line anaesthesia modality over general anaesthesia for procedures/surgeries unless there’s clear clinical contraindication. The TPA requires justification of the need for GA.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/tpa-instructs-panel-hospitals-to-prioritise-local-over-general-anaesthesia/
TPA’s Local Anaesthesia-First Policy Breaches Medical Ethics: MMA
MMA denounces a TPA’s directive to panel hospitals on the choice of anaesthesia (LA over GA) and the classification of certain procedures as daycare/inpatient as interference in clinical autonomy and a breach of medical ethics. MMA demands action from MOH.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/tpas-local-anaesthesia-first-policy-breaches-medical-ethics-mma/
MediExpress’ Anaesthesia Directive Is Dangerous, Illegal, And Unacceptable
DRSFORALL condemns MediExpress’ local anaesthesia (LA)-first policy for panel hospitals as unacceptable interference with clinical practice that endangers patients and exposes doctors/hospitals to medico-legal liability. It’s also unlawful under Act 586.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/mediexpress-anaesthesia-directive-is-dangerous-illegal-and-unacceptable-drsforall/
Ex-Health DG Slams TPA’s Directive To Prioritise Local Over General Anaesthesia
Ex-Health DG Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah, who is UCSI Healthcare Group chair and a surgeon, tells MediExpress not to “cross the line of the medical profession”, as “safety comes first”. The TPA ordered hospitals to prioritise local over general anaesthesia.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/ex-health-dg-slams-tpas-directive-to-prioritise-local-over-general-anaesthesia/
Australia’s Mental Health Services Are Buckling
Interventions such as formal support systems are needed for Australia’s exhausted, overwhelmed mental health nurses.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/australias-mental-health-services-are-buckling/
Reform Must Target Public Health Care, Not Private Sector: APHM
APHM president Dr Kuljit Singh says health care reform should target the public health care system, rather than the private sector. “Reform simply cannot begin nor end with the private sector because, ultimately, that is not where the tipping point lies.”
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/reform-must-target-public-health-care-not-private-sector-aphm/
TPA Instructs Panel Hospitals To Prioritise Local Over General Anaesthesia
MediExpress orders panel hospitals to prioritise local anaesthesia as the first-line anaesthesia modality over general anaesthesia for procedures/surgeries unless there’s clear clinical contraindication. The TPA requires justification of the need for GA.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/tpa-instructs-panel-hospitals-to-prioritise-local-over-general-anaesthesia/
Today's Health News Recap
FPMPAM Demands MOH, MMC Probes Against MediExpress Over Anaesthesia Directive
FPMPAM tells the Health Ministry and the Malaysian Medical Council to investigate MediExpress’ anaesthesia directive for interference with clinical decision-making and possible infringement of Act 586. FPMPAM stresses the need for laws to regulate MCOs.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/fpmpam-demands-moh-mmc-probes-against-mediexpress-over-anaesthesia-directive/
We Doctors Answer To Our Patients And MMC, Not TPAs
PMPASKL urges doctors to remain steadfast and resist any attempts to erode the sanctity of their profession. “The medical profession must speak with one voice: patient care must never be compromised for administrative convenience or cost-cutting measures.”
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/we-doctors-answer-to-our-patients-and-mmc-not-tpas-pmpaskl/
Anaesthesia Choice Must Be Based On Medical Necessity, Not Financial Factors
The Malaysian Society of Anaesthesiologists & College of Anaesthesiologists say while local anaesthesia is appropriate for many procedures, it’s not universally safe to be designated the first choice. Anaesthesia choice must be based on medical necessity.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/anaesthesia-choice-must-be-based-on-medical-necessity-not-financial-factors-malaysian-society-of-anaesthesiologists-college-of-anaesthesiologists-amm/
AMM Condemns ‘Dangerous Precedent’ From TPA’s Anaesthesia Directive
Malaysia’s specialist umbrella body, Academy of Medicine of Malaysia, slams the “dangerous precedent” set by a TPA’s anaesthesia directive, calling it a significant overreach that directly impinges on the clinical autonomy of surgeons and anaesthesiologists.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/amm-condemns-dangerous-precedent-from-tpas-anaesthesia-directive/
‘We Can’t Keep Building New Dialysis Centres’: Health Deputy DG
Health deputy DG Nor Azimi sounds the alarm on the unstoppable rise of kidney disease in Malaysia, saying public and private sectors can’t keep building new dialysis centres. Peritoneal dialysis must be championed as the first-line treatment instead of HD.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/we-cant-keep-building-new-dialysis-centres-health-deputy-dg/
Free ‘Disease-Free’ Health Certs Let Farmers Skip 42-Day Livestock Permit Wait: DVS
Livestock farmers with free DVS “disease-free” certs can bypass the 42-day transfer permit wait. Beyond easing transfers, the scheme, which targets small and medium farms, aims to improve herd health. “When farms are healthy, their productivity increases.”
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/free-disease-free-health-certs-let-farmers-skip-42-day-livestock-permit-wait-dvs/
TPA’s Interference With Anaesthesia Care Sets Dangerous Precedent
An anaesthesiologist says MediExpress’ LA-first policy exposes patients to unnecessary harm. The choice between local and general anaesthesia is a complex clinical judgment. “If TPAs are permitted to dictate clinical choices, the precedent is dangerous.”
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/tpas-interference-with-anaesthesia-care-sets-dangerous-precedent-dr-p/
Are Surgeries Cancelled If Anaesthesia Choice Changed? Anaesthesiologist Asks TPA
An anaesthesiologist questions MediExpress if doctors have to cancel a surgery if the choice of local anaesthesia previously “approved” by the TPA needs to be changed to general anaesthesia just before the procedure due to various patient/clinical factors.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/are-surgeries-cancelled-if-anaesthesia-choice-changed-anaesthesiologist-asks-tpa/
FPMPAM Demands MOH, MMC Probes Against MediExpress Over Anaesthesia Directive
FPMPAM tells the Health Ministry and the Malaysian Medical Council to investigate MediExpress’ anaesthesia directive for interference with clinical decision-making and possible infringement of Act 586. FPMPAM stresses the need for laws to regulate MCOs.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/fpmpam-demands-moh-mmc-probes-against-mediexpress-over-anaesthesia-directive/
We Doctors Answer To Our Patients And MMC, Not TPAs
PMPASKL urges doctors to remain steadfast and resist any attempts to erode the sanctity of their profession. “The medical profession must speak with one voice: patient care must never be compromised for administrative convenience or cost-cutting measures.”
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/we-doctors-answer-to-our-patients-and-mmc-not-tpas-pmpaskl/
Anaesthesia Choice Must Be Based On Medical Necessity, Not Financial Factors
The Malaysian Society of Anaesthesiologists & College of Anaesthesiologists say while local anaesthesia is appropriate for many procedures, it’s not universally safe to be designated the first choice. Anaesthesia choice must be based on medical necessity.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/anaesthesia-choice-must-be-based-on-medical-necessity-not-financial-factors-malaysian-society-of-anaesthesiologists-college-of-anaesthesiologists-amm/
AMM Condemns ‘Dangerous Precedent’ From TPA’s Anaesthesia Directive
Malaysia’s specialist umbrella body, Academy of Medicine of Malaysia, slams the “dangerous precedent” set by a TPA’s anaesthesia directive, calling it a significant overreach that directly impinges on the clinical autonomy of surgeons and anaesthesiologists.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/amm-condemns-dangerous-precedent-from-tpas-anaesthesia-directive/
‘We Can’t Keep Building New Dialysis Centres’: Health Deputy DG
Health deputy DG Nor Azimi sounds the alarm on the unstoppable rise of kidney disease in Malaysia, saying public and private sectors can’t keep building new dialysis centres. Peritoneal dialysis must be championed as the first-line treatment instead of HD.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/we-cant-keep-building-new-dialysis-centres-health-deputy-dg/
Free ‘Disease-Free’ Health Certs Let Farmers Skip 42-Day Livestock Permit Wait: DVS
Livestock farmers with free DVS “disease-free” certs can bypass the 42-day transfer permit wait. Beyond easing transfers, the scheme, which targets small and medium farms, aims to improve herd health. “When farms are healthy, their productivity increases.”
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/free-disease-free-health-certs-let-farmers-skip-42-day-livestock-permit-wait-dvs/
TPA’s Interference With Anaesthesia Care Sets Dangerous Precedent
An anaesthesiologist says MediExpress’ LA-first policy exposes patients to unnecessary harm. The choice between local and general anaesthesia is a complex clinical judgment. “If TPAs are permitted to dictate clinical choices, the precedent is dangerous.”
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/tpas-interference-with-anaesthesia-care-sets-dangerous-precedent-dr-p/
Are Surgeries Cancelled If Anaesthesia Choice Changed? Anaesthesiologist Asks TPA
An anaesthesiologist questions MediExpress if doctors have to cancel a surgery if the choice of local anaesthesia previously “approved” by the TPA needs to be changed to general anaesthesia just before the procedure due to various patient/clinical factors.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/are-surgeries-cancelled-if-anaesthesia-choice-changed-anaesthesiologist-asks-tpa/
Today's Health News Recap
Experience Public Health Care Without VIP Status, MMA Tells MPs
In justifying the need to raise doctors’ on-call allowance to RM25/hour, MMA tells MPs and ministers to experience the overworked, underfunded, and understaffed public health care system like ordinary citizens without using their fast-track VIP privileges.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/experience-public-health-care-without-vip-status-mma-tells-mps/
Hold TPAs Liable For Interfering With Clinical Care, Say Six Doctors’ Groups
Six doctors’ groups say TPAs should be held liable for adverse events if payers continue to blur the line between administration and clinical care. “Doctors will not and should not take the blame for decisions imposed by corporate overreach.”
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/hold-tpas-liable-for-interfering-with-clinical-care-say-six-doctors-groups/
Patients Say Peritoneal Dialysis Offers Flexibility, But Better Support Needed
Patients say peritoneal dialysis is more flexible than haemodialysis, but more financial and caregiver support is needed. “Socso covers my machine and solutions, but everything else is on me,” says a PD patient who pays up to RM250 monthly out of pocket.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/patients-say-peritoneal-dialysis-offers-flexibility-but-better-support-needed/
Where Are The Patients In Malaysia’s Clinical Research Agenda?
Malaysia’s clinical research agenda cannot remain trapped in old assumptions. The world has already moved forward; we must catch up.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/where-are-the-patients-in-malaysias-clinical-research-agenda-saida-abu-bakar/
Budget 2026: RM25 Hourly On-Call Allowance, Raise Public Health Care Registration Fees
MMA suggests raising public health care registration fees from RM1 to RM5 for primary care and RM5 to RM25 for specialist outpatient care, but to continue exemption for B40. MMA also wants a raise in doctors’ on-call allowance to RM25/hour in Budget 2026.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/budget-2026-rm25-hourly-on-call-allowance-raise-public-health-care-registration-fees/
Clinicians’ Anaesthesia Decision Paramount, Private Hospitals Tell TPA
APHM tells a TPA that doctors make the final decision on anaesthesia choice due to patient safety. Private hospitals describe the TPA’s memo as requiring comms from the physician for “admin” purposes only, not to be interpreted as “insurer authorisation”.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/clinicians-anaesthesia-decision-paramount-private-hospitals-tell-tpa/
Novartis Malaysia Introduces Book And App To Make Breast Cancer Care More Patient-Centred
The book aims to inspire confidence, resilience, and hope for those navigating breast cancer and showcases the shared efforts to shape a more compassionate, inclusive, and connected breast cancer community in Malaysia.
https://ova.galencentre.org/novartis-malaysia-introduces-book-and-app-to-make-breast-cancer-care-more-patient-centred/
Experience Public Health Care Without VIP Status, MMA Tells MPs
In justifying the need to raise doctors’ on-call allowance to RM25/hour, MMA tells MPs and ministers to experience the overworked, underfunded, and understaffed public health care system like ordinary citizens without using their fast-track VIP privileges.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/experience-public-health-care-without-vip-status-mma-tells-mps/
Hold TPAs Liable For Interfering With Clinical Care, Say Six Doctors’ Groups
Six doctors’ groups say TPAs should be held liable for adverse events if payers continue to blur the line between administration and clinical care. “Doctors will not and should not take the blame for decisions imposed by corporate overreach.”
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/hold-tpas-liable-for-interfering-with-clinical-care-say-six-doctors-groups/
Patients Say Peritoneal Dialysis Offers Flexibility, But Better Support Needed
Patients say peritoneal dialysis is more flexible than haemodialysis, but more financial and caregiver support is needed. “Socso covers my machine and solutions, but everything else is on me,” says a PD patient who pays up to RM250 monthly out of pocket.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/patients-say-peritoneal-dialysis-offers-flexibility-but-better-support-needed/
Where Are The Patients In Malaysia’s Clinical Research Agenda?
Malaysia’s clinical research agenda cannot remain trapped in old assumptions. The world has already moved forward; we must catch up.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/where-are-the-patients-in-malaysias-clinical-research-agenda-saida-abu-bakar/
Budget 2026: RM25 Hourly On-Call Allowance, Raise Public Health Care Registration Fees
MMA suggests raising public health care registration fees from RM1 to RM5 for primary care and RM5 to RM25 for specialist outpatient care, but to continue exemption for B40. MMA also wants a raise in doctors’ on-call allowance to RM25/hour in Budget 2026.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/budget-2026-rm25-hourly-on-call-allowance-raise-public-health-care-registration-fees/
Clinicians’ Anaesthesia Decision Paramount, Private Hospitals Tell TPA
APHM tells a TPA that doctors make the final decision on anaesthesia choice due to patient safety. Private hospitals describe the TPA’s memo as requiring comms from the physician for “admin” purposes only, not to be interpreted as “insurer authorisation”.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/clinicians-anaesthesia-decision-paramount-private-hospitals-tell-tpa/
Novartis Malaysia Introduces Book And App To Make Breast Cancer Care More Patient-Centred
The book aims to inspire confidence, resilience, and hope for those navigating breast cancer and showcases the shared efforts to shape a more compassionate, inclusive, and connected breast cancer community in Malaysia.
https://ova.galencentre.org/novartis-malaysia-introduces-book-and-app-to-make-breast-cancer-care-more-patient-centred/
Today's Health News Recap
Health DG Warns Insurers Against Illegal Interference With Clinical Decisions
In an unprecedented warning, the Health DG tells insurers and TPAs that interfering with a medical practitioner’s clinical authority isn’t only unacceptable, but may breach Act 586. Setting reimbursement on predetermined clinical choices may be illegal.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/health-dg-warns-insurers-against-illegal-interference-with-clinical-decisions/
Preparing Malaysia’s Health Care Industry For IFRS Sustainability Standards
Preparing for these new standards is not merely a compliance exercise; it is a strategic imperative for future-proofing key economic sectors and enhancing the integrity of the entire Malaysian capital market.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/preparing-malaysias-health-care-industry-for-ifrs-sustainability-standards/
Malaysia’s Ageing Challenge: Why We Need A National Health Insurance Now
A national health insurance scheme will protect families from financial ruin, guarantee access to long-term care, and strengthen confidence in the nation’s health system.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/malaysias-ageing-challenge-why-we-need-a-national-health-insurance-now-prof-dr-rafidah-hanim-mokhtar/
Paracetamol Use In Pregnancy And Autism: Association Or Causation?
The DoktorBudak coalition says paracetamol remains the standard of care for treating pain and fever in pregnancy. US research doesn’t show that Tylenol causes autism in children, only a loose association that disappears with more rigorous research methods.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/paracetamol-use-in-pregnancy-and-autism-association-or-causation-doktorbudak-com/
Transforming Cancer Care: Why The Right Diagnosis Matters
Breakthroughs in medicine and early, accurate detection are transforming cancer care, ensuring the right treatment at the right time, and paving the way for more patients to not only survive but truly thrive.
https://ova.galencentre.org/transforming-cancer-care-why-the-right-diagnosis-matters/
Health DG Warns Insurers Against Illegal Interference With Clinical Decisions
In an unprecedented warning, the Health DG tells insurers and TPAs that interfering with a medical practitioner’s clinical authority isn’t only unacceptable, but may breach Act 586. Setting reimbursement on predetermined clinical choices may be illegal.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/health-dg-warns-insurers-against-illegal-interference-with-clinical-decisions/
Preparing Malaysia’s Health Care Industry For IFRS Sustainability Standards
Preparing for these new standards is not merely a compliance exercise; it is a strategic imperative for future-proofing key economic sectors and enhancing the integrity of the entire Malaysian capital market.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/preparing-malaysias-health-care-industry-for-ifrs-sustainability-standards/
Malaysia’s Ageing Challenge: Why We Need A National Health Insurance Now
A national health insurance scheme will protect families from financial ruin, guarantee access to long-term care, and strengthen confidence in the nation’s health system.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/malaysias-ageing-challenge-why-we-need-a-national-health-insurance-now-prof-dr-rafidah-hanim-mokhtar/
Paracetamol Use In Pregnancy And Autism: Association Or Causation?
The DoktorBudak coalition says paracetamol remains the standard of care for treating pain and fever in pregnancy. US research doesn’t show that Tylenol causes autism in children, only a loose association that disappears with more rigorous research methods.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/paracetamol-use-in-pregnancy-and-autism-association-or-causation-doktorbudak-com/
Transforming Cancer Care: Why The Right Diagnosis Matters
Breakthroughs in medicine and early, accurate detection are transforming cancer care, ensuring the right treatment at the right time, and paving the way for more patients to not only survive but truly thrive.
https://ova.galencentre.org/transforming-cancer-care-why-the-right-diagnosis-matters/
Today's Health News Recap
We Support DG Mahathar’s Bold Stance Against Insurer Encroachment
Doctors’ group PMPASKL praises Health DG Mahathar’s “bold and principled” stand against insurer/TPA interference with the practice of medicine. “To TPAs and insurance entities, let this be an unambiguous message: you must respect professional boundaries.”
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/we-support-dg-mahathars-bold-stance-against-insurer-encroachment-pmpaskl/
Beyond Pandemics: Why Rare Diseases Must Be Part of Malaysia’s Public Health Agenda
If Malaysia fully implements its Rare Disease Policy, it can become a regional model for integrating rare diseases into public health systems, in line with WHO and Asean principles on health equity and system resilience.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/beyond-pandemics-why-rare-diseases-must-be-part-of-malaysias-public-health-agenda-saida-abu-bakar/
Budget 2026: Strategic Solutions For Sustainable Health Care
Firstly, stabilise the workforce with immediate financial and career rewards. Second, decongest facilities by strategically partnering with and funding the primary care network. Last but not least, rebuild trust through inclusive governance and transparent communication.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/budget-2026-strategic-solutions-for-sustainable-health-care-dr-musa-mohd-nordin-chan-li-jin-prof-thiyagar-nadarajaw/
Sarawak’s 293 Doctor No-Shows Aren’t A Posting Problem
An MO says the failure of 293 MOs to report for duty in Sarawak isn’t a posting problem, but the system finally exposing itself. Sarawak should provide doctors state incentives and support, separate from federal. MOH’s one-size-fits-all model doesn’t work.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/sarawaks-293-doctor-no-shows-arent-a-posting-problem-medical-officer/
Biology Versus The Bell Schedule: Rethinking School Start Times
Governments, educators, parents, and communities must work together to pilot flexible solutions, whether through staggered schedules, hybrid models, or modest start-time shifts.
https://ova.galencentre.org/biology-versus-the-bell-schedule-rethinking-school-start-times-dr-an-jubin-john/
We Support DG Mahathar’s Bold Stance Against Insurer Encroachment
Doctors’ group PMPASKL praises Health DG Mahathar’s “bold and principled” stand against insurer/TPA interference with the practice of medicine. “To TPAs and insurance entities, let this be an unambiguous message: you must respect professional boundaries.”
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/we-support-dg-mahathars-bold-stance-against-insurer-encroachment-pmpaskl/
Beyond Pandemics: Why Rare Diseases Must Be Part of Malaysia’s Public Health Agenda
If Malaysia fully implements its Rare Disease Policy, it can become a regional model for integrating rare diseases into public health systems, in line with WHO and Asean principles on health equity and system resilience.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/beyond-pandemics-why-rare-diseases-must-be-part-of-malaysias-public-health-agenda-saida-abu-bakar/
Budget 2026: Strategic Solutions For Sustainable Health Care
Firstly, stabilise the workforce with immediate financial and career rewards. Second, decongest facilities by strategically partnering with and funding the primary care network. Last but not least, rebuild trust through inclusive governance and transparent communication.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/budget-2026-strategic-solutions-for-sustainable-health-care-dr-musa-mohd-nordin-chan-li-jin-prof-thiyagar-nadarajaw/
Sarawak’s 293 Doctor No-Shows Aren’t A Posting Problem
An MO says the failure of 293 MOs to report for duty in Sarawak isn’t a posting problem, but the system finally exposing itself. Sarawak should provide doctors state incentives and support, separate from federal. MOH’s one-size-fits-all model doesn’t work.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/sarawaks-293-doctor-no-shows-arent-a-posting-problem-medical-officer/
Biology Versus The Bell Schedule: Rethinking School Start Times
Governments, educators, parents, and communities must work together to pilot flexible solutions, whether through staggered schedules, hybrid models, or modest start-time shifts.
https://ova.galencentre.org/biology-versus-the-bell-schedule-rethinking-school-start-times-dr-an-jubin-john/
Today's Health News Recap
Act Now For Better Patient Care: Protect Workers’ Health, Protect Patients’ Rights
Without urgent reform, Malaysia risks sliding into a profit-driven health care model that undermines ethics and patient safety.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/act-now-for-better-patient-care-protect-workers-health-protect-patients-rights-dr-steven-chow/
Sarawak Mulls Financial Assistance, PR, Free Tertiary Education To Attract Talented Doctors
Deputy Premier Sim Kui Hian says he will discuss with the Sarawak premier and cabinet about providing urgent financial assistance to medical officers, as well as Sarawak PR for the family and free tertiary education for the children of deserving doctors.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/sarawak-mulls-financial-assistance-pr-free-tertiary-education-to-attract-talented-doctors/
Should You Use Weight Loss Drugs? First, Measure Obesity Right
There’s a boom in the use of weight loss medications with more new ones on their way, but they are recommended only for the clinically obese.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/should-you-use-weight-loss-drugs-first-measure-obesity-right/
IHH: ‘Clinical Judgement Cannot Be Governed By Cost’
IHH Healthcare Malaysia says payers’ anaesthesia and generic-only policies may reduce medicine to compliance rather than care. “When cost becomes the deciding factor, we trade precision for expedience and in doing so, place both patient and principle at risk.”
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/ihh-clinical-judgement-cannot-be-governed-by-cost/
When Eye Floaters Turn Dangerous: Act Fast To Save Your Sight
Retinal detachment is more common than many think, occurring in approximately 7 to 14 per 100,000 cases, and is not caused by lifestyle or diet, but rather structural factors.
https://ova.galencentre.org/when-eye-floaters-turn-dangerous-act-fast-to-save-your-sight/
Act Now For Better Patient Care: Protect Workers’ Health, Protect Patients’ Rights
Without urgent reform, Malaysia risks sliding into a profit-driven health care model that undermines ethics and patient safety.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/act-now-for-better-patient-care-protect-workers-health-protect-patients-rights-dr-steven-chow/
Sarawak Mulls Financial Assistance, PR, Free Tertiary Education To Attract Talented Doctors
Deputy Premier Sim Kui Hian says he will discuss with the Sarawak premier and cabinet about providing urgent financial assistance to medical officers, as well as Sarawak PR for the family and free tertiary education for the children of deserving doctors.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/sarawak-mulls-financial-assistance-pr-free-tertiary-education-to-attract-talented-doctors/
Should You Use Weight Loss Drugs? First, Measure Obesity Right
There’s a boom in the use of weight loss medications with more new ones on their way, but they are recommended only for the clinically obese.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/should-you-use-weight-loss-drugs-first-measure-obesity-right/
IHH: ‘Clinical Judgement Cannot Be Governed By Cost’
IHH Healthcare Malaysia says payers’ anaesthesia and generic-only policies may reduce medicine to compliance rather than care. “When cost becomes the deciding factor, we trade precision for expedience and in doing so, place both patient and principle at risk.”
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/ihh-clinical-judgement-cannot-be-governed-by-cost/
When Eye Floaters Turn Dangerous: Act Fast To Save Your Sight
Retinal detachment is more common than many think, occurring in approximately 7 to 14 per 100,000 cases, and is not caused by lifestyle or diet, but rather structural factors.
https://ova.galencentre.org/when-eye-floaters-turn-dangerous-act-fast-to-save-your-sight/
Today's Health News Recap
Maintaining RM10 GP Fee Floor Risks TPAs Undercutting Doctors: MMA
Despite a GP consultation fee ceiling increase to RM80, MMA expresses deep disappointment with the government retaining the RM10 floor rate, saying this low floor risks undercutting by TPAs who have been paying doctors below RM35. MMA wants RM50 minimum.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/maintaining-rm10-gp-fee-floor-risks-tpa-undercutting-doctors-mma/
Budget 2026: Anaemic Raise In MOH’s Allocation Belies Public Health Care Crisis
The Galen Centre says the “anaemic” 2.8% (RM1.3 billion) increase in MOH’s allocation in Budget 2026 to RM46.5 billion belies the fact that the public health care system is over-congested, understaffed and underfunded. Sugar subsidies weren’t scrapped too.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/budget-2026-anaemic-raise-in-mohs-allocation-belies-public-health-care-crisis/
Budget 2026: Health Spending Growth Slows, MOH Gets RM46.5 Bil
MOH’s allocation for Budget 2026 is RM46.5 billion, a 2.8% (RM1.25 billion) increase from 2025, reflecting slower growth after recent double-digit hikes in previous budgets. Allocation for development expenditure barely increased by just RM7 million.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/budget-2026-health-spending-growth-slows-moh-gets-rm46-5-bil/
Budget 2026: Cigarette And Alcohol Tax Hikes, Revenue Earmarked For Health
Budget 2026 allocates a raise in tobacco taxes (including a raise of 2 sen per stick for cigarettes), besides a 10% hike in excise duty on alcoholic drinks. Both will take effect on Nov 1, 2025. Revenue from these tax hikes will be earmarked for health.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/budget-2026-cigarette-and-alcohol-tax-hikes-revenue-earmarked-for-health/
Budget 2026: Government Doctors Get 40% On-Call Allowance Hike, GPs Get RM80 Consultation Fee
For Budget 2026, Anwar Ibrahim announces a 40% on-call allowance raise for medical/dental officers that costs extra RM120mil/year. Doctors can make on-call claims from last Oct 1. Private GPs get a new consultation fee ceiling of RM80; RM10 floor retained.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/budget-2026-government-doctors-get-40-on-call-allowance-hike-gps-get-rm80-consultation-fee/
Commercial Interests Cannot Override Ethics, Duty Of Care, Or Patient Safety
MMA raises patient safety concerns from a collab between an insurance company and a pharmacy group offering 24/7 telehealth services, including doctor consultations and “instant” prescriptions via an app, saying there’s a lack of regulatory enforcement.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/commercial-interests-cannot-override-ethics-duty-of-care-or-patient-safety-mma/
Landmark ‘Kinabalu Declaration’ To Confront Child Rights Crisis
The “Kinabalu Declaration” launched by a coalition of health care professionals highlights the need for stronger child protection measures in issues like statelessness, lack of health care access, and child marriage.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/landmark-kinabalu-declaration-to-confront-child-rights-crisis/
Doctors’ Day 2025: The Time For Polite Appeals Is Past
On Doctors’ Day, FPMPAM says the government’s reluctance to decisively address issues like insurer interference, frozen consultation fees, and rising clinic operational costs leaves doctors and patients vulnerable. “The time for polite appeals is past.”
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/doctors-day-2025-the-time-for-polite-appeals-is-past-fpmpam/
Should You Use Weight Loss Drugs? First, Measure Obesity Right
There’s a boom in the use of weight loss medications with more new ones on their way, but they are recommended only for the clinically obese.
https://ova.galencentre.org/should-you-use-weight-loss-drugs-first-measure-obesity-right/
Maintaining RM10 GP Fee Floor Risks TPAs Undercutting Doctors: MMA
Despite a GP consultation fee ceiling increase to RM80, MMA expresses deep disappointment with the government retaining the RM10 floor rate, saying this low floor risks undercutting by TPAs who have been paying doctors below RM35. MMA wants RM50 minimum.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/maintaining-rm10-gp-fee-floor-risks-tpa-undercutting-doctors-mma/
Budget 2026: Anaemic Raise In MOH’s Allocation Belies Public Health Care Crisis
The Galen Centre says the “anaemic” 2.8% (RM1.3 billion) increase in MOH’s allocation in Budget 2026 to RM46.5 billion belies the fact that the public health care system is over-congested, understaffed and underfunded. Sugar subsidies weren’t scrapped too.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/budget-2026-anaemic-raise-in-mohs-allocation-belies-public-health-care-crisis/
Budget 2026: Health Spending Growth Slows, MOH Gets RM46.5 Bil
MOH’s allocation for Budget 2026 is RM46.5 billion, a 2.8% (RM1.25 billion) increase from 2025, reflecting slower growth after recent double-digit hikes in previous budgets. Allocation for development expenditure barely increased by just RM7 million.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/budget-2026-health-spending-growth-slows-moh-gets-rm46-5-bil/
Budget 2026: Cigarette And Alcohol Tax Hikes, Revenue Earmarked For Health
Budget 2026 allocates a raise in tobacco taxes (including a raise of 2 sen per stick for cigarettes), besides a 10% hike in excise duty on alcoholic drinks. Both will take effect on Nov 1, 2025. Revenue from these tax hikes will be earmarked for health.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/budget-2026-cigarette-and-alcohol-tax-hikes-revenue-earmarked-for-health/
Budget 2026: Government Doctors Get 40% On-Call Allowance Hike, GPs Get RM80 Consultation Fee
For Budget 2026, Anwar Ibrahim announces a 40% on-call allowance raise for medical/dental officers that costs extra RM120mil/year. Doctors can make on-call claims from last Oct 1. Private GPs get a new consultation fee ceiling of RM80; RM10 floor retained.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/budget-2026-government-doctors-get-40-on-call-allowance-hike-gps-get-rm80-consultation-fee/
Commercial Interests Cannot Override Ethics, Duty Of Care, Or Patient Safety
MMA raises patient safety concerns from a collab between an insurance company and a pharmacy group offering 24/7 telehealth services, including doctor consultations and “instant” prescriptions via an app, saying there’s a lack of regulatory enforcement.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/commercial-interests-cannot-override-ethics-duty-of-care-or-patient-safety-mma/
Landmark ‘Kinabalu Declaration’ To Confront Child Rights Crisis
The “Kinabalu Declaration” launched by a coalition of health care professionals highlights the need for stronger child protection measures in issues like statelessness, lack of health care access, and child marriage.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/landmark-kinabalu-declaration-to-confront-child-rights-crisis/
Doctors’ Day 2025: The Time For Polite Appeals Is Past
On Doctors’ Day, FPMPAM says the government’s reluctance to decisively address issues like insurer interference, frozen consultation fees, and rising clinic operational costs leaves doctors and patients vulnerable. “The time for polite appeals is past.”
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/doctors-day-2025-the-time-for-polite-appeals-is-past-fpmpam/
Should You Use Weight Loss Drugs? First, Measure Obesity Right
There’s a boom in the use of weight loss medications with more new ones on their way, but they are recommended only for the clinically obese.
https://ova.galencentre.org/should-you-use-weight-loss-drugs-first-measure-obesity-right/
Today's Health News Recap
Budget 2026 Slashes Funding For Madani Medical Scheme, Health Education, MHTC, NCEMH
Several MOH programmes face cuts in Budget 2026 despite a higher overall allocation of RM46.5 bil. The funding cuts include the Madani Medical Scheme (50%), MHTC (33%), health education (23%), and the National Centre for Excellence in Mental Health (12%).
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/budget-2026-slashes-funding-for-madani-medical-scheme-health-education-mhtc-ncemh/
Wary Of WBB Debacle, Doctor Groups Await Briefing On On-Call Allowance Raise
After the WBB debacle, doctor groups HDK and MMA will await an MOH briefing on the implementation of the 40% on-call allowance (ETAP) raise for medical officers that was announced in Budget 2026. HDK says doctors “felt cheated” by ETAP tied to WBB then.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/wary-of-wbb-debacle-doctor-groups-await-briefing-on-on-call-allowance-raise/
Budget 2026 Slashes Funding For Madani Medical Scheme, Health Education, MHTC, NCEMH
Several MOH programmes face cuts in Budget 2026 despite a higher overall allocation of RM46.5 bil. The funding cuts include the Madani Medical Scheme (50%), MHTC (33%), health education (23%), and the National Centre for Excellence in Mental Health (12%).
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/budget-2026-slashes-funding-for-madani-medical-scheme-health-education-mhtc-ncemh/
Wary Of WBB Debacle, Doctor Groups Await Briefing On On-Call Allowance Raise
After the WBB debacle, doctor groups HDK and MMA will await an MOH briefing on the implementation of the 40% on-call allowance (ETAP) raise for medical officers that was announced in Budget 2026. HDK says doctors “felt cheated” by ETAP tied to WBB then.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/wary-of-wbb-debacle-doctor-groups-await-briefing-on-on-call-allowance-raise/
Today's Health News Recap
Anaesthesiologist Groups, TPA Agree To Maintain Open Communication
At a recent meeting between MediExpress and anaesthesiologist groups MSA and COA, plus doctors’ group MMA, MediExpress reportedly clarified that its anaesthesia memo wasn’t meant to interfere with clinical management. The meeting ended on a positive note.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/anaesthesiologist-groups-tpa-agree-to-maintain-open-communication/
Stigma Prevents Malaysians From Getting Medical Help For Obesity: Experts
Many Malaysians with obesity struggle to seek medical help due to stigma, experts said. They urged for compassionate care, recognition of obesity as a disease, and highlighted new treatments like GLP-1 drugs and bariatric surgery beyond lifestyle changes.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/stigma-prevents-malaysians-from-getting-medical-help-for-obesity-experts/
Breast Cancer Has High Survival Rate If Detected, Treated Early
Half of Malaysian women with breast cancer present late at stages 3 and 4, including those younger than 50. Awareness alone is not enough. There must be early detection with regular screening mammograms and effective, modern cancer treatment.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/pink-october-2025-damansara-specialist-hospital-breast-cancer-has-high-survival-rate-if-detected-treated-early-assoc-prof-dr-aminudin-rahman-mohd-mydin/
Malaysia, New Zealand Finalise Agreement On Dairy Sanitary Measures
Malaysia and New Zealand have finalised an arrangement on the recognition of the equivalence of New Zealand’s dairy sanitary measures related to food safety at the 6th Meeting of the Sanitary and Phytosanitary Committee of the Malaysia–New Zealand FTA.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/malaysia-new-zealand-finalise-agreement-on-dairy-sanitary-measures/
An Open Letter To Malaysians About The Health Care Mirage In Budget 2026
An MO casts doubt on the 40% hike of doctors’ on-call allowance, saying there’s no official circular yet. The MO also the 40% raise is only an RM3 increase from RM9.16 to RM12.83/hour. “Doctors don’t need 40% of peanuts. We need a system that retains us.”
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/an-open-letter-to-malaysians-about-the-health-care-mirage-in-budget-2026-medical-officer/
At Town Hall, GPs Demand Fee Revision To RM40 To RM125
At a Penang town hall organised by PMPS and FPMPAM, GPs demand that their consultation fees be raised to RM40-RM125, pointing out that the majority of their cases are from TPAs. FPMPAM wants TPAs to be prohibited from paying doctors the statutory minimum.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/at-town-hall-gps-demand-fee-revision-to-rm40-to-rm125/
Colour Therapy: Supporting Mental Health In Malaysia’s Challenging Times
A gentle yet powerful mental health tool is colour therapy. More than just decoration, colours influence how we feel, heal, and connect.
https://ova.galencentre.org/colour-therapy-supporting-mental-health-in-malaysias-challenging-times/
Anaesthesiologist Groups, TPA Agree To Maintain Open Communication
At a recent meeting between MediExpress and anaesthesiologist groups MSA and COA, plus doctors’ group MMA, MediExpress reportedly clarified that its anaesthesia memo wasn’t meant to interfere with clinical management. The meeting ended on a positive note.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/anaesthesiologist-groups-tpa-agree-to-maintain-open-communication/
Stigma Prevents Malaysians From Getting Medical Help For Obesity: Experts
Many Malaysians with obesity struggle to seek medical help due to stigma, experts said. They urged for compassionate care, recognition of obesity as a disease, and highlighted new treatments like GLP-1 drugs and bariatric surgery beyond lifestyle changes.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/stigma-prevents-malaysians-from-getting-medical-help-for-obesity-experts/
Breast Cancer Has High Survival Rate If Detected, Treated Early
Half of Malaysian women with breast cancer present late at stages 3 and 4, including those younger than 50. Awareness alone is not enough. There must be early detection with regular screening mammograms and effective, modern cancer treatment.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/pink-october-2025-damansara-specialist-hospital-breast-cancer-has-high-survival-rate-if-detected-treated-early-assoc-prof-dr-aminudin-rahman-mohd-mydin/
Malaysia, New Zealand Finalise Agreement On Dairy Sanitary Measures
Malaysia and New Zealand have finalised an arrangement on the recognition of the equivalence of New Zealand’s dairy sanitary measures related to food safety at the 6th Meeting of the Sanitary and Phytosanitary Committee of the Malaysia–New Zealand FTA.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/malaysia-new-zealand-finalise-agreement-on-dairy-sanitary-measures/
An Open Letter To Malaysians About The Health Care Mirage In Budget 2026
An MO casts doubt on the 40% hike of doctors’ on-call allowance, saying there’s no official circular yet. The MO also the 40% raise is only an RM3 increase from RM9.16 to RM12.83/hour. “Doctors don’t need 40% of peanuts. We need a system that retains us.”
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/an-open-letter-to-malaysians-about-the-health-care-mirage-in-budget-2026-medical-officer/
At Town Hall, GPs Demand Fee Revision To RM40 To RM125
At a Penang town hall organised by PMPS and FPMPAM, GPs demand that their consultation fees be raised to RM40-RM125, pointing out that the majority of their cases are from TPAs. FPMPAM wants TPAs to be prohibited from paying doctors the statutory minimum.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/at-town-hall-gps-demand-fee-revision-to-rm40-to-rm125/
Colour Therapy: Supporting Mental Health In Malaysia’s Challenging Times
A gentle yet powerful mental health tool is colour therapy. More than just decoration, colours influence how we feel, heal, and connect.
https://ova.galencentre.org/colour-therapy-supporting-mental-health-in-malaysias-challenging-times/
Today's Health News Recap
Building A Healthier Health Care System Must Begin With Compassion
Budget 2026 reminds us that true health care investment must go beyond infrastructure; it must also empower the people who make healing possible.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/building-a-healthier-health-care-system-must-begin-with-compassion-academy-of-medicine-of-malaysia/
Between RM10 And RM80: A Superficial Fix That Ignores Decades Of Erosion
General practice is the backbone of Malaysia’s health care system. When GPs fail, the entire system falters, according to Dr Manmeet Rai.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/between-rm10-and-rm80-a-superficial-fix-that-ignores-decades-of-erosion-dr-manmeet-rai/
Look Away And The System Will Collapse
I have seen it happen. Doctors are giving up quietly. They are tired. They have stopped believing. I am one. I walked away. It was not easy to leave home, but I walked away because to stay was to sell my self-worth.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/look-away-and-the-system-will-collapse-dr-loshi-rajen/
Poll: Nearly All Specialists Perceive Insurer Interference With Clinical Decisions
In a CodeBlue poll of 855 specialists in private hospitals in Malaysia, 99% perceive insurer interference with clinical decisions. 99% also say patients faced health insurance problems over the past year. Denials/delays forced referrals to govt hospitals.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/poll-nearly-all-specialists-perceive-insurer-interference-with-clinical-decisions/
Influenza: A Silent Threat To Adults And Children Alike
While many consider the flu a seasonal inconvenience, it remains a significant public health concern, causing millions of severe cases and yearly fatalities.
https://ova.galencentre.org/influenza-a-silent-threat-to-adults-and-children-alike-2/
Building A Healthier Health Care System Must Begin With Compassion
Budget 2026 reminds us that true health care investment must go beyond infrastructure; it must also empower the people who make healing possible.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/building-a-healthier-health-care-system-must-begin-with-compassion-academy-of-medicine-of-malaysia/
Between RM10 And RM80: A Superficial Fix That Ignores Decades Of Erosion
General practice is the backbone of Malaysia’s health care system. When GPs fail, the entire system falters, according to Dr Manmeet Rai.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/between-rm10-and-rm80-a-superficial-fix-that-ignores-decades-of-erosion-dr-manmeet-rai/
Look Away And The System Will Collapse
I have seen it happen. Doctors are giving up quietly. They are tired. They have stopped believing. I am one. I walked away. It was not easy to leave home, but I walked away because to stay was to sell my self-worth.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/look-away-and-the-system-will-collapse-dr-loshi-rajen/
Poll: Nearly All Specialists Perceive Insurer Interference With Clinical Decisions
In a CodeBlue poll of 855 specialists in private hospitals in Malaysia, 99% perceive insurer interference with clinical decisions. 99% also say patients faced health insurance problems over the past year. Denials/delays forced referrals to govt hospitals.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/poll-nearly-all-specialists-perceive-insurer-interference-with-clinical-decisions/
Influenza: A Silent Threat To Adults And Children Alike
While many consider the flu a seasonal inconvenience, it remains a significant public health concern, causing millions of severe cases and yearly fatalities.
https://ova.galencentre.org/influenza-a-silent-threat-to-adults-and-children-alike-2/
Today's Health News Recap
A Heartfelt Note To The Victims And Their Families Of The Stabbing In Bandar Utama
No child should ever face fear, humiliation, or violence in the very space meant to build their dreams.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/a-heartfelt-note-to-the-victims-and-their-families-of-the-stabbing-in-bandar-utama-dr-rakhee-yadav/
Form Private Health Care Commission To Regulate Health Care Charges, Insurance Premiums
The Galen Centre demands the formation of a Private Health Care Commission to regulate private health care charges and health insurance premiums, acting as an independent regulator with a clear consumer protection mandate to discipline the private market.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/form-private-health-care-commission-to-regulate-health-care-charges-insurance-premiums/
Budget 2026: Where Do Rare Diseases Fit? Everywhere
For families living with rare or low-awareness conditions, inclusion isn’t about creating new programmes — it’s about making sure the system itself finally lets them through.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/budget-2026-where-do-rare-diseases-fit-everywhere-saida-abu-bakar/
Schools Must Be Safe Sanctuaries, Not Sites Of Violence
Above all, we must rebuild the moral foundation of our classrooms by teaching values of consent, empathy, equality, and respect from the earliest years.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/schools-must-be-safe-sanctuaries-not-sites-of-violence-malaysian-paediatric-association/
Sunway Medical Centre Partners With NCSM To Enhance Childhood Cancer Care And Awareness
A multidisciplinary approach is one of the key pillars of cancer care at SMC's Paediatric Haematology and Oncology Unit.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/sunway-medical-centre-partners-with-ncsm-to-enhance-childhood-cancer-care-and-awareness/
‘Deny, Delay, Revoke’: Specialists Reveal Health Insurance Underbelly In Malaysia
In a poll, specialists say insurers routinely use “Deny, Delay, Revoke” tactics to dodge payment and control treatment: rejecting surgery, delaying emergencies, and revoking approvals even after care is given, describing a system stacked against patients.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/deny-delay-revoke-specialists-reveal-health-insurance-underbelly-in-malaysia/
The CML Journey: Embracing Hope Together
For patients living with Chronic Myeloid Leukaemia, every diagnosis marks the start of a journey, one shaped by fear, resilience, and above all, hope.
https://ova.galencentre.org/the-cml-journey-embracing-hope-together/
A Heartfelt Note To The Victims And Their Families Of The Stabbing In Bandar Utama
No child should ever face fear, humiliation, or violence in the very space meant to build their dreams.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/a-heartfelt-note-to-the-victims-and-their-families-of-the-stabbing-in-bandar-utama-dr-rakhee-yadav/
Form Private Health Care Commission To Regulate Health Care Charges, Insurance Premiums
The Galen Centre demands the formation of a Private Health Care Commission to regulate private health care charges and health insurance premiums, acting as an independent regulator with a clear consumer protection mandate to discipline the private market.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/form-private-health-care-commission-to-regulate-health-care-charges-insurance-premiums/
Budget 2026: Where Do Rare Diseases Fit? Everywhere
For families living with rare or low-awareness conditions, inclusion isn’t about creating new programmes — it’s about making sure the system itself finally lets them through.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/budget-2026-where-do-rare-diseases-fit-everywhere-saida-abu-bakar/
Schools Must Be Safe Sanctuaries, Not Sites Of Violence
Above all, we must rebuild the moral foundation of our classrooms by teaching values of consent, empathy, equality, and respect from the earliest years.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/schools-must-be-safe-sanctuaries-not-sites-of-violence-malaysian-paediatric-association/
Sunway Medical Centre Partners With NCSM To Enhance Childhood Cancer Care And Awareness
A multidisciplinary approach is one of the key pillars of cancer care at SMC's Paediatric Haematology and Oncology Unit.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/sunway-medical-centre-partners-with-ncsm-to-enhance-childhood-cancer-care-and-awareness/
‘Deny, Delay, Revoke’: Specialists Reveal Health Insurance Underbelly In Malaysia
In a poll, specialists say insurers routinely use “Deny, Delay, Revoke” tactics to dodge payment and control treatment: rejecting surgery, delaying emergencies, and revoking approvals even after care is given, describing a system stacked against patients.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/deny-delay-revoke-specialists-reveal-health-insurance-underbelly-in-malaysia/
The CML Journey: Embracing Hope Together
For patients living with Chronic Myeloid Leukaemia, every diagnosis marks the start of a journey, one shaped by fear, resilience, and above all, hope.
https://ova.galencentre.org/the-cml-journey-embracing-hope-together/
Today's Health News Recap
Sim: Insurance Interference With Clinical Decisions And Denying Coverage May Be Illegal
Citing CodeBlue’s poll, Bayan Baru MP Sim Tze Tzin warns insurance companies that interfering with clinical decisions and denying, delaying or revoking coverage may be illegal. “Insurance fails to protect patients at a time when they most need protection.”
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/sim-insurance-interference-with-clinical-decisions-and-denying-coverage-may-be-illegal/
Pharmacists Are Not Legally Authorised Or Equipped To Give Injections
Malaysia’s vaccination programme must remain under qualified medical supervision, conducted in regulated clinical environments where emergencies can be properly managed and lives protected.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/pharmacists-are-not-legally-authorised-or-equipped-to-give-injections-pmpaskl/
Vaccination Is A Medical Procedure, Not A Retail Service
The MMA reiterates that commercial interest must never supersede patient safety and quality of care. Vaccination is not a transaction — it is a clinical act that carries accountability, responsibility, and duty of care.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/vaccination-is-a-medical-procedure-not-a-retail-service-mma/
Schools Must Be A Safe Haven For Children To Learn And Grow
Let us rebuild a culture of compassion, vigilance, and shared responsibility, so that every school becomes a sanctuary where children are protected, respected, and inspired to grow into righteous, resilient adults.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/schools-must-be-a-safe-haven-for-children-to-learn-and-grow-dr-syed-abdul-khaliq/
UMMC Unveils Malaysia’s First Teaching Hospital Phase I Clinical Investigation Unit
The new unit marks a milestone in advancing first in-human, early phase trials, supporting cancer therapies and preparing for cell and gene treatment delivery.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/ummc-unveils-malaysias-first-teaching-hospital-phase-i-clinical-investigation-unit/
We All Share Responsibility For Youth Mental Health
The question is not whether we can afford to invest in mental health, but whether we can afford not to.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/we-all-share-responsibility-for-youth-mental-health-dr-sim-su-tein-dr-sean-thum/
How KALSIS Can Help Fund Cutting-Edge Radioisotope Therapy For Cancer
Radioisotope therapy, a new treatment for late-stage prostate cancer, is available in Malaysia. KALSIS helps seniors fund the up to RM500,000 therapy by tapping on the value of their home. UM’s UCTF seeks sponsors for its Blue Cap Run for Prostate Cancer.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/how-kalsis-can-help-fund-cutting-edge-radioisotope-therapy-for-cancer/
Violence Isn’t Symptom Of Mental Illness
True safety is not achieved by removing differences, but by supporting and protecting every child, including those with psychosocial disabilities or experiencing mental illness.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/violence-isnt-symptom-of-mental-illness-oku-community-and-allies/
Sunway Medical Centre Partners With NCSM To Enhance Childhood Cancer Care And Awareness
A multidisciplinary approach is one of the key pillars of cancer care at SMC’s Paediatric Haematology and Oncology Unit.
https://ova.galencentre.org/sunway-medical-centre-partners-with-ncsm-to-enhance-childhood-cancer-care-and-awareness/
Insurance Denies Various Drug Claims In Malaysia, Including Expensive Innovators, Cheap Generics
Specialists say insurers are denying Malaysians life-saving medicines – from cancer therapies to diabetes drugs – by labelling them “non-medical” or “not indicated”. Insurance denials span across both innovators and generics, costly and inexpensive drugs.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/insurance-denies-various-drug-claims-in-malaysia-including-expensive-innovators-cheap-generics/
Sim: Insurance Interference With Clinical Decisions And Denying Coverage May Be Illegal
Citing CodeBlue’s poll, Bayan Baru MP Sim Tze Tzin warns insurance companies that interfering with clinical decisions and denying, delaying or revoking coverage may be illegal. “Insurance fails to protect patients at a time when they most need protection.”
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/sim-insurance-interference-with-clinical-decisions-and-denying-coverage-may-be-illegal/
Pharmacists Are Not Legally Authorised Or Equipped To Give Injections
Malaysia’s vaccination programme must remain under qualified medical supervision, conducted in regulated clinical environments where emergencies can be properly managed and lives protected.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/pharmacists-are-not-legally-authorised-or-equipped-to-give-injections-pmpaskl/
Vaccination Is A Medical Procedure, Not A Retail Service
The MMA reiterates that commercial interest must never supersede patient safety and quality of care. Vaccination is not a transaction — it is a clinical act that carries accountability, responsibility, and duty of care.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/vaccination-is-a-medical-procedure-not-a-retail-service-mma/
Schools Must Be A Safe Haven For Children To Learn And Grow
Let us rebuild a culture of compassion, vigilance, and shared responsibility, so that every school becomes a sanctuary where children are protected, respected, and inspired to grow into righteous, resilient adults.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/schools-must-be-a-safe-haven-for-children-to-learn-and-grow-dr-syed-abdul-khaliq/
UMMC Unveils Malaysia’s First Teaching Hospital Phase I Clinical Investigation Unit
The new unit marks a milestone in advancing first in-human, early phase trials, supporting cancer therapies and preparing for cell and gene treatment delivery.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/ummc-unveils-malaysias-first-teaching-hospital-phase-i-clinical-investigation-unit/
We All Share Responsibility For Youth Mental Health
The question is not whether we can afford to invest in mental health, but whether we can afford not to.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/we-all-share-responsibility-for-youth-mental-health-dr-sim-su-tein-dr-sean-thum/
How KALSIS Can Help Fund Cutting-Edge Radioisotope Therapy For Cancer
Radioisotope therapy, a new treatment for late-stage prostate cancer, is available in Malaysia. KALSIS helps seniors fund the up to RM500,000 therapy by tapping on the value of their home. UM’s UCTF seeks sponsors for its Blue Cap Run for Prostate Cancer.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/how-kalsis-can-help-fund-cutting-edge-radioisotope-therapy-for-cancer/
Violence Isn’t Symptom Of Mental Illness
True safety is not achieved by removing differences, but by supporting and protecting every child, including those with psychosocial disabilities or experiencing mental illness.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/violence-isnt-symptom-of-mental-illness-oku-community-and-allies/
Sunway Medical Centre Partners With NCSM To Enhance Childhood Cancer Care And Awareness
A multidisciplinary approach is one of the key pillars of cancer care at SMC’s Paediatric Haematology and Oncology Unit.
https://ova.galencentre.org/sunway-medical-centre-partners-with-ncsm-to-enhance-childhood-cancer-care-and-awareness/
Insurance Denies Various Drug Claims In Malaysia, Including Expensive Innovators, Cheap Generics
Specialists say insurers are denying Malaysians life-saving medicines – from cancer therapies to diabetes drugs – by labelling them “non-medical” or “not indicated”. Insurance denials span across both innovators and generics, costly and inexpensive drugs.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/insurance-denies-various-drug-claims-in-malaysia-including-expensive-innovators-cheap-generics/
Today's Health News Recap
CSOs For Older People Highlight Budget Signals And Call For Joint Delivery Systems
If the government, civil society, the private sector, and local communities act together, we can add healthier years, keep care closer to home, build service-integrated housing, and create dignified jobs in the care and silver economy.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/csos-for-older-people-highlight-budget-signals-and-call-for-joint-delivery-systems/
Reflections On The Gathering Storm For Children And Youths
It takes an entire village to raise a child, and it will take the collaborative efforts of all members to provide a safe, healthy, and connected society for young people to grow and mature into healthy adults.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/reflections-on-the-gathering-storm-for-children-and-youths-dr-thinesh-rajasingam/
Budget 2026: A Better Understanding Of MOH’s Allocation
The rakyat need to take charge and manage their health better in order to have a more sustainable health delivery and financing system for the country.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/budget-2026-a-better-understanding-of-mohs-allocation-chua-hong-teck/
Private General Practitioners: Friends Or Foes Of The Madani Government?
With the right mindset, both GPs and specialists in private practice can do their best to be meaningful partners of the Madani government in ensuring the health and welfare of the rakyat.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/private-general-practitioners-friends-or-foes-of-the-madani-government-dr-gunalan-palari-arumugam/
We Diagnose To Distance Ourselves
We have become a society that is quick to judge, even quicker to dismiss, but slow to listen and dangerously desensitised to suffering.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/we-diagnose-to-distance-ourselves-dr-loshi-rajen/
Violence In Schools: Taking Collective Responsibility
Please let us stop pointing fingers and work together to create a safer environment for children in our schools, online and in society. We need an all-of-society involvement and commitment to get this job done.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/violence-in-schools-taking-collective-responsibility-dr-amar-singh-hss/
Regulate Online Games, Says Addiction Medicine Group After BU School Stabbing
AMAM demands regulation of online games and platforms, including statutory limits on game time and warning labels. The BU school stabbing suspect reportedly used gaming terms, besides referencing US school shootings in his note and on his murder weapons.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/regulate-online-games-says-addiction-medicine-group-after-bu-school-stabbing/
‘Is The Patient Pregnant?’ (Patient’s A Man): Irrelevant Questions Insurers Ask Doctors
Private specialists say Malaysian health insurers are obstructing timely care for patients with repeated, irrelevant, and illogical questions – delaying approvals, second-guessing doctors, and diverting clinical time toward administrative firefighting.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/is-the-patient-pregnant-patients-a-man-irrelevant-questions-insurers-ask-doctors/
CSOs For Older People Highlight Budget Signals And Call For Joint Delivery Systems
If the government, civil society, the private sector, and local communities act together, we can add healthier years, keep care closer to home, build service-integrated housing, and create dignified jobs in the care and silver economy.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/csos-for-older-people-highlight-budget-signals-and-call-for-joint-delivery-systems/
Reflections On The Gathering Storm For Children And Youths
It takes an entire village to raise a child, and it will take the collaborative efforts of all members to provide a safe, healthy, and connected society for young people to grow and mature into healthy adults.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/reflections-on-the-gathering-storm-for-children-and-youths-dr-thinesh-rajasingam/
Budget 2026: A Better Understanding Of MOH’s Allocation
The rakyat need to take charge and manage their health better in order to have a more sustainable health delivery and financing system for the country.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/budget-2026-a-better-understanding-of-mohs-allocation-chua-hong-teck/
Private General Practitioners: Friends Or Foes Of The Madani Government?
With the right mindset, both GPs and specialists in private practice can do their best to be meaningful partners of the Madani government in ensuring the health and welfare of the rakyat.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/private-general-practitioners-friends-or-foes-of-the-madani-government-dr-gunalan-palari-arumugam/
We Diagnose To Distance Ourselves
We have become a society that is quick to judge, even quicker to dismiss, but slow to listen and dangerously desensitised to suffering.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/we-diagnose-to-distance-ourselves-dr-loshi-rajen/
Violence In Schools: Taking Collective Responsibility
Please let us stop pointing fingers and work together to create a safer environment for children in our schools, online and in society. We need an all-of-society involvement and commitment to get this job done.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/violence-in-schools-taking-collective-responsibility-dr-amar-singh-hss/
Regulate Online Games, Says Addiction Medicine Group After BU School Stabbing
AMAM demands regulation of online games and platforms, including statutory limits on game time and warning labels. The BU school stabbing suspect reportedly used gaming terms, besides referencing US school shootings in his note and on his murder weapons.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/regulate-online-games-says-addiction-medicine-group-after-bu-school-stabbing/
‘Is The Patient Pregnant?’ (Patient’s A Man): Irrelevant Questions Insurers Ask Doctors
Private specialists say Malaysian health insurers are obstructing timely care for patients with repeated, irrelevant, and illogical questions – delaying approvals, second-guessing doctors, and diverting clinical time toward administrative firefighting.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/is-the-patient-pregnant-patients-a-man-irrelevant-questions-insurers-ask-doctors/
Today's Health News Recap
Selgate Specialist Hospital Rawang Brings Personalised Care Closer To Home
The health care group’s first flagship private hospital sets a new benchmark for community based care in Selangor.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/selgate-specialist-hospital-rawang-brings-personalised-care-closer-to-home/
Huat Lai Becomes Malaysia’s Biggest Humane Certified Cage-Free Egg Producer
Huat Lai Resources Berhad has become Malaysia’s largest cage-free egg producer after earning Humane Certified accreditation from the US-based HFAC – a first for cage-free liquid eggs – marking a major Malaysia milestone in animal-welfare food production.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/huat-lai-becomes-malaysias-biggest-humane-certified-cage-free-egg-producer/
Saving Our Scrubs: Solving Malaysia’s Nursing Shortage Through Sustainable Solutions
Nurses are the discreet pillar of our health care system, and it’s time we return the care they’ve given us by listening, valuing, and investing in them.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/saving-our-scrubs-solving-malaysias-nursing-shortage-through-sustainable-solutions-wong-lee-sia-ho-sweet-lee-chee-gek-neo/
Survey Reveals Possibly ‘Systemic’ Insurance Interference With Medical Practice: AMM
The Academy of Medicine says CodeBlue’s poll of specialists shows that insurance interference with clinical decisions has been ongoing and is perhaps even “systemic”. AMM backs calls to establish an independent statutory Private Health Care Commission.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/survey-reveals-possibly-systemic-insurance-interference-with-medical-practice-amm/
Menopause Asia Launches To Bridge Gaps In Midlife Care, Visibility, And Support
The digital platform brings together health care experts, advocates, and everyday women to reshape the narrative on menopause and midlife.
https://ova.galencentre.org/menopause-asia-launches-to-bridge-gaps-in-midlife-care-visibility-and-support/
CodeBlue’s View: Health Insurance Horrors Demolish Deceptive Fantasy Of Protection
Amid widespread health insurance denials and delays of care, CodeBlue demands laws like Obamacare to prohibit ITOs from denying coverage or raising premiums due to pre-existing conditions. ITOs must also inform policyholders of blanket clinical mandates.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/codeblues-view-health-insurance-horrors-demolish-deceptive-fantasy-of-protection/
No Woman Left Behind: NORA Brings Hope And Access To Cancer Care
NORA stands as a scalable model of patient navigation that can be implemented to guide newly diagnosed breast cancer patients to complete live-saving treatment.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/no-woman-left-behind-nora-brings-hope-and-access-to-cancer-care/
Cross-Industry Partners Raise Awareness On Early Breast Cancer Risk Of Recurrence
There is a need for more proactive conversations, timely follow-up, and community support for women after initial treatment—especially those with early breast cancer who may feel “finished” with care, but still benefit from ongoing monitoring.
https://ova.galencentre.org/empowering-malaysian-women-cross-industry-partners-raise-awareness-on-early-breast-cancer-risk-of-recurrence/
Selgate Specialist Hospital Rawang Brings Personalised Care Closer To Home
The health care group’s first flagship private hospital sets a new benchmark for community based care in Selangor.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/selgate-specialist-hospital-rawang-brings-personalised-care-closer-to-home/
Huat Lai Becomes Malaysia’s Biggest Humane Certified Cage-Free Egg Producer
Huat Lai Resources Berhad has become Malaysia’s largest cage-free egg producer after earning Humane Certified accreditation from the US-based HFAC – a first for cage-free liquid eggs – marking a major Malaysia milestone in animal-welfare food production.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/huat-lai-becomes-malaysias-biggest-humane-certified-cage-free-egg-producer/
Saving Our Scrubs: Solving Malaysia’s Nursing Shortage Through Sustainable Solutions
Nurses are the discreet pillar of our health care system, and it’s time we return the care they’ve given us by listening, valuing, and investing in them.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/saving-our-scrubs-solving-malaysias-nursing-shortage-through-sustainable-solutions-wong-lee-sia-ho-sweet-lee-chee-gek-neo/
Survey Reveals Possibly ‘Systemic’ Insurance Interference With Medical Practice: AMM
The Academy of Medicine says CodeBlue’s poll of specialists shows that insurance interference with clinical decisions has been ongoing and is perhaps even “systemic”. AMM backs calls to establish an independent statutory Private Health Care Commission.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/survey-reveals-possibly-systemic-insurance-interference-with-medical-practice-amm/
Menopause Asia Launches To Bridge Gaps In Midlife Care, Visibility, And Support
The digital platform brings together health care experts, advocates, and everyday women to reshape the narrative on menopause and midlife.
https://ova.galencentre.org/menopause-asia-launches-to-bridge-gaps-in-midlife-care-visibility-and-support/
CodeBlue’s View: Health Insurance Horrors Demolish Deceptive Fantasy Of Protection
Amid widespread health insurance denials and delays of care, CodeBlue demands laws like Obamacare to prohibit ITOs from denying coverage or raising premiums due to pre-existing conditions. ITOs must also inform policyholders of blanket clinical mandates.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/codeblues-view-health-insurance-horrors-demolish-deceptive-fantasy-of-protection/
No Woman Left Behind: NORA Brings Hope And Access To Cancer Care
NORA stands as a scalable model of patient navigation that can be implemented to guide newly diagnosed breast cancer patients to complete live-saving treatment.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/no-woman-left-behind-nora-brings-hope-and-access-to-cancer-care/
Cross-Industry Partners Raise Awareness On Early Breast Cancer Risk Of Recurrence
There is a need for more proactive conversations, timely follow-up, and community support for women after initial treatment—especially those with early breast cancer who may feel “finished” with care, but still benefit from ongoing monitoring.
https://ova.galencentre.org/empowering-malaysian-women-cross-industry-partners-raise-awareness-on-early-breast-cancer-risk-of-recurrence/
Today's Health News Recap
Influenza Self-Test Kits: Patient Safety Must Come Before Convenience
While it is important to make health care more accessible, it must never come at the expense of quality, safety, or clinical integrity.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/influenza-self-test-kits-patient-safety-must-come-before-convenience-pmpaskl/
Gleneagles Hospital Penang’s Dr Suresh Kumarasamy Recognised By The Asian Society Of Gynaecologic Oncology
Respected by peers and patients alike for his clinical expertise and compassionate care, Dr Suresh is recognised as a role model within the Asian medical community.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/gleneagles-hospital-penangs-dr-suresh-kumarasamy-recognised-by-the-asian-society-of-gynaecologic-oncology/
Saudi Arabia’s New Hajj Restrictions Ban Kidney Failure, Serious Heart Disease, Dementia
Saudi Arabia announces a slew of new health requirements for Hajj that ban those with chronic conditions, including kidney failure, heart failure or serious heart disease, chronic lung or liver diseases, and senior citizens with dementia, among other NCDs.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/saudi-arabias-new-hajj-restrictions-ban-kidney-failure-serious-heart-disease-dementia/
SJMC Promotes Breast Cancer Awareness With 3D Mammogram Sponsorship, Health & Wellness Carnival
SJMC partnered with the Subang Jaya state assembly to sponsor 40 3D mammogram screenings worth RM15,880 for women in Subang Jaya, especially those from underserved communities.
https://ova.galencentre.org/sjmc-promotes-breast-cancer-awareness-with-3d-mammogram-sponsorship-health-wellness-carnival/
CodeBlue Releases Full Responses In Health Insurance Survey
CodeBlue is releasing the full anonymised responses in our poll among more than 850 specialists in the private sector on health insurance issues in Malaysia. Our 200-page report can be downloaded from inside this article.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/codeblue-releases-full-responses-in-health-insurance-survey/
Senior Oncologist Warns Of Dangerous Insurance Interference In Cancer Care
Senior oncologist Dr Ibrahim Wahid slams ITOs/TPAs for questioning clinical decisions and denying coverage for lifesaving cancer drugs. An ITO demands up to 30% discounts from hospitals; some doctors lose cashless facilities if hospitals don’t acquiesce.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/senior-oncologist-warns-of-dangerous-insurance-interference-in-cancer-care/
Adhesions: When Organs Get Stuck After Surgery
While most people with adhesions will never be troubled by them, in severe cases they can cause significant complications such as bowel obstruction and infertility.
https://ova.galencentre.org/adhesions-when-organs-get-stuck-after-surgery-dr-kelvin-prem/
Influenza Self-Test Kits: Patient Safety Must Come Before Convenience
While it is important to make health care more accessible, it must never come at the expense of quality, safety, or clinical integrity.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/influenza-self-test-kits-patient-safety-must-come-before-convenience-pmpaskl/
Gleneagles Hospital Penang’s Dr Suresh Kumarasamy Recognised By The Asian Society Of Gynaecologic Oncology
Respected by peers and patients alike for his clinical expertise and compassionate care, Dr Suresh is recognised as a role model within the Asian medical community.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/gleneagles-hospital-penangs-dr-suresh-kumarasamy-recognised-by-the-asian-society-of-gynaecologic-oncology/
Saudi Arabia’s New Hajj Restrictions Ban Kidney Failure, Serious Heart Disease, Dementia
Saudi Arabia announces a slew of new health requirements for Hajj that ban those with chronic conditions, including kidney failure, heart failure or serious heart disease, chronic lung or liver diseases, and senior citizens with dementia, among other NCDs.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/saudi-arabias-new-hajj-restrictions-ban-kidney-failure-serious-heart-disease-dementia/
SJMC Promotes Breast Cancer Awareness With 3D Mammogram Sponsorship, Health & Wellness Carnival
SJMC partnered with the Subang Jaya state assembly to sponsor 40 3D mammogram screenings worth RM15,880 for women in Subang Jaya, especially those from underserved communities.
https://ova.galencentre.org/sjmc-promotes-breast-cancer-awareness-with-3d-mammogram-sponsorship-health-wellness-carnival/
CodeBlue Releases Full Responses In Health Insurance Survey
CodeBlue is releasing the full anonymised responses in our poll among more than 850 specialists in the private sector on health insurance issues in Malaysia. Our 200-page report can be downloaded from inside this article.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/codeblue-releases-full-responses-in-health-insurance-survey/
Senior Oncologist Warns Of Dangerous Insurance Interference In Cancer Care
Senior oncologist Dr Ibrahim Wahid slams ITOs/TPAs for questioning clinical decisions and denying coverage for lifesaving cancer drugs. An ITO demands up to 30% discounts from hospitals; some doctors lose cashless facilities if hospitals don’t acquiesce.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/senior-oncologist-warns-of-dangerous-insurance-interference-in-cancer-care/
Adhesions: When Organs Get Stuck After Surgery
While most people with adhesions will never be troubled by them, in severe cases they can cause significant complications such as bowel obstruction and infertility.
https://ova.galencentre.org/adhesions-when-organs-get-stuck-after-surgery-dr-kelvin-prem/
Today's Health News Recap
Insurance/Takaful Industry Touts 90% Medical Claims Approval Without Specifying GL Denial Rate
In response to CodeBlue’s poll among specialists, LIAM, MTA, and PIAM tout an average medical claims approval rate of over 90% in the insurance/takaful industry. But the associations omit details on the rate of guarantee letter (GL) denials or revocation.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/insurance-takaful-industry-touts-90-medical-claims-approval-without-specifying-gl-denial-rate/
Insurers, TPAs ‘Crossed The Line’ By Compromising Clinical Decisions: Bandar Kuching MP
Bandar Kuching MP Dr Kelvin Yii slams ITOs/TPAs for interference and compromising clinical decisions in private health care at a huge scale, saying payers have “crossed the line”. The DAP MP demands an independent statutory Private Health Care Commission.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/insurers-tpas-crossed-the-line-by-compromising-clinical-decisions-bandar-kuching-mp/
Pharmacists Can Vaccinate Safely Under Same Clinical Standards As Doctors
The Malaysian Pharmacists Society (MPS) agrees vaccination is a clinical act, not retail, but says trained pharmacists should be allowed to vaccinate adults under the same safety standards as doctors, to expand access without compromising patient safety.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/pharmacists-can-vaccinate-safely-under-same-clinical-standards-as-doctors-mps/
Addressing Parking Challenges At Hospital Ampang: A Call For Proper Urban Planning
A specialist questions a plan to close an open-air car park across Ampang Hospital for the construction of a supermarket. The car park remains the only viable option for staff and visitors as the parking allocation within the hospital is insufficient.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/addressing-parking-challenges-at-hospital-ampang-a-call-for-proper-urban-planning-specialist-doctor/
Restoring Voice And Dignity In Head And Neck Cancer
Consultant clinical oncologist Dr Ben Yap explains how holistic care and modern treatments help patients reclaim identity, confidence and hope.
https://ova.galencentre.org/restoring-voice-and-dignity-in-head-and-neck-cancer/
Insurance/Takaful Industry Touts 90% Medical Claims Approval Without Specifying GL Denial Rate
In response to CodeBlue’s poll among specialists, LIAM, MTA, and PIAM tout an average medical claims approval rate of over 90% in the insurance/takaful industry. But the associations omit details on the rate of guarantee letter (GL) denials or revocation.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/insurance-takaful-industry-touts-90-medical-claims-approval-without-specifying-gl-denial-rate/
Insurers, TPAs ‘Crossed The Line’ By Compromising Clinical Decisions: Bandar Kuching MP
Bandar Kuching MP Dr Kelvin Yii slams ITOs/TPAs for interference and compromising clinical decisions in private health care at a huge scale, saying payers have “crossed the line”. The DAP MP demands an independent statutory Private Health Care Commission.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/insurers-tpas-crossed-the-line-by-compromising-clinical-decisions-bandar-kuching-mp/
Pharmacists Can Vaccinate Safely Under Same Clinical Standards As Doctors
The Malaysian Pharmacists Society (MPS) agrees vaccination is a clinical act, not retail, but says trained pharmacists should be allowed to vaccinate adults under the same safety standards as doctors, to expand access without compromising patient safety.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/pharmacists-can-vaccinate-safely-under-same-clinical-standards-as-doctors-mps/
Addressing Parking Challenges At Hospital Ampang: A Call For Proper Urban Planning
A specialist questions a plan to close an open-air car park across Ampang Hospital for the construction of a supermarket. The car park remains the only viable option for staff and visitors as the parking allocation within the hospital is insufficient.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/addressing-parking-challenges-at-hospital-ampang-a-call-for-proper-urban-planning-specialist-doctor/
Restoring Voice And Dignity In Head And Neck Cancer
Consultant clinical oncologist Dr Ben Yap explains how holistic care and modern treatments help patients reclaim identity, confidence and hope.
https://ova.galencentre.org/restoring-voice-and-dignity-in-head-and-neck-cancer/
Today's Health News Recap
Cabinet Mulls National Ruminant Board, Food Security Legislation
Agriculture and Food Security Minister Mohamad Sabu announced today that a Cabinet committee is reviewing a proposed National Ruminant Board, besides enacting legislation to coordinate food security actions and policies across agencies and ministries.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/cabinet-mulls-national-ruminant-board-food-security-legislation/
Bank Negara, MOH To Meet Medical Fraternity On MHIT Product
Amid widespread perception of ITO/TPA interference in medical practice, Bank Negara and MOH have invited MMA to an engagement session next Tuesday to update the medical fraternity on Reset, including the base MHIT product and other health care reforms.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/bank-negara-moh-to-meet-medical-fraternity-on-mhit-product/
Why Parents Should Work Hand-In-Hand With Teachers
As parents, are we putting enough effort to connect and work closely with his teachers so that our child will benefit from school connectedness?
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/why-parents-should-work-hand-in-hand-with-teachers-prof-dr-n-thiyagar/
Rethinking Discipline: Why Positive Reinforcement, Not The Rotan, Builds Resilient Youth
Children who are physically punished are more likely to become aggressive, struggle with self-esteem, and show higher levels of depression and antisocial behaviour as adults.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/rethinking-discipline-why-positive-reinforcement-not-the-rotan-builds-resilient-youth-sitra-panirsheeluam/
Pharmacists Must Stop Overstepping Professional Boundaries
Health care must never be commercialised at the expense of patient safety and public trust, says the FPMPAM.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/pharmacists-must-stop-overstepping-professional-boundaries/
We Pioneered T&CM Integration, But Now Our Own Law Holds Us Back
It is time we revisit the Private Healthcare Facilities and Services Act 1998 — not to weaken it, but to make it wiser, more flexible, and aligned with what patients truly need.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/we-pioneered-tcm-integration-but-now-our-own-law-holds-us-back-dr-lim-ren-jye/
ITOs, TPAs Not Authorised To ‘Direct’ Patient Care: Bank Negara
Bank Negara says ITOs and TPAs are not authorised to “direct” patient care, adding that ITOs assess medical claims based on “accepted treatment protocols”, as guided by CPG. Claims must be honoured if treatments are established to be “medically necessary”.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/itos-tpas-not-authorised-to-direct-patient-care-bank-negara/
MCA Demands Laws For Patient Protection From Insurance Denials, Delays
MCA president Wee Ka Siong urges laws to protect patients from health insurance denials, delays, and revocation of GLs, including prohibitions on exclusions from pre-existing conditions. MCA demands an independent statutory Private Health Care Commission.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/mca-demands-laws-for-patient-protection-from-insurance-denials-delays/
Insurance Denials, Delays Hit Cancer Patients Hard: NCSM
NCSM says insurance denials and delays have been affecting cancer patients in Malaysia for years. Many new cancer treatments aren’t covered by insurance.
Patients living with cancer and other NCDs describe insurance exclusions as a “slow death sentence”.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/insurance-denials-delays-hit-cancer-patients-hard-ncsm/
Building Emotional Intelligence In Malaysia’s Digital Generation
As Malaysia moves deeper into the digital era, our goal should be to raise a generation that not only excels in technology but also leads with empathy, intellect, and emotional depth.
https://ova.galencentre.org/building-emotional-intelligence-in-malaysias-digital-generation-jolene-chong/
Cabinet Mulls National Ruminant Board, Food Security Legislation
Agriculture and Food Security Minister Mohamad Sabu announced today that a Cabinet committee is reviewing a proposed National Ruminant Board, besides enacting legislation to coordinate food security actions and policies across agencies and ministries.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/cabinet-mulls-national-ruminant-board-food-security-legislation/
Bank Negara, MOH To Meet Medical Fraternity On MHIT Product
Amid widespread perception of ITO/TPA interference in medical practice, Bank Negara and MOH have invited MMA to an engagement session next Tuesday to update the medical fraternity on Reset, including the base MHIT product and other health care reforms.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/bank-negara-moh-to-meet-medical-fraternity-on-mhit-product/
Why Parents Should Work Hand-In-Hand With Teachers
As parents, are we putting enough effort to connect and work closely with his teachers so that our child will benefit from school connectedness?
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/why-parents-should-work-hand-in-hand-with-teachers-prof-dr-n-thiyagar/
Rethinking Discipline: Why Positive Reinforcement, Not The Rotan, Builds Resilient Youth
Children who are physically punished are more likely to become aggressive, struggle with self-esteem, and show higher levels of depression and antisocial behaviour as adults.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/rethinking-discipline-why-positive-reinforcement-not-the-rotan-builds-resilient-youth-sitra-panirsheeluam/
Pharmacists Must Stop Overstepping Professional Boundaries
Health care must never be commercialised at the expense of patient safety and public trust, says the FPMPAM.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/pharmacists-must-stop-overstepping-professional-boundaries/
We Pioneered T&CM Integration, But Now Our Own Law Holds Us Back
It is time we revisit the Private Healthcare Facilities and Services Act 1998 — not to weaken it, but to make it wiser, more flexible, and aligned with what patients truly need.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/we-pioneered-tcm-integration-but-now-our-own-law-holds-us-back-dr-lim-ren-jye/
ITOs, TPAs Not Authorised To ‘Direct’ Patient Care: Bank Negara
Bank Negara says ITOs and TPAs are not authorised to “direct” patient care, adding that ITOs assess medical claims based on “accepted treatment protocols”, as guided by CPG. Claims must be honoured if treatments are established to be “medically necessary”.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/itos-tpas-not-authorised-to-direct-patient-care-bank-negara/
MCA Demands Laws For Patient Protection From Insurance Denials, Delays
MCA president Wee Ka Siong urges laws to protect patients from health insurance denials, delays, and revocation of GLs, including prohibitions on exclusions from pre-existing conditions. MCA demands an independent statutory Private Health Care Commission.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/mca-demands-laws-for-patient-protection-from-insurance-denials-delays/
Insurance Denials, Delays Hit Cancer Patients Hard: NCSM
NCSM says insurance denials and delays have been affecting cancer patients in Malaysia for years. Many new cancer treatments aren’t covered by insurance.
Patients living with cancer and other NCDs describe insurance exclusions as a “slow death sentence”.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/insurance-denials-delays-hit-cancer-patients-hard-ncsm/
Building Emotional Intelligence In Malaysia’s Digital Generation
As Malaysia moves deeper into the digital era, our goal should be to raise a generation that not only excels in technology but also leads with empathy, intellect, and emotional depth.
https://ova.galencentre.org/building-emotional-intelligence-in-malaysias-digital-generation-jolene-chong/
Illegal For Pharmacists To Administer Vaccines: Health DG
DG Mahathar says pharmacists are barred from administering vaccines, citing Acts 586, 366, and 50. Vaccination can only be carried out by registered medical practitioners. Any workshop implying that pharmacists can legally vaccinate may mislead the public.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/illegal-for-pharmacists-to-administer-vaccines-health-dg/
DG Mahathar says pharmacists are barred from administering vaccines, citing Acts 586, 366, and 50. Vaccination can only be carried out by registered medical practitioners. Any workshop implying that pharmacists can legally vaccinate may mislead the public.
https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2025/10/illegal-for-pharmacists-to-administer-vaccines-health-dg/
CodeBlue
Illegal For Pharmacists To Administer Vaccines: Health DG
DG Mahathar says pharmacists are barred from administering vaccines, citing Acts 586, 366, and 50. Vaccination can only be carried out by registered medical practitioners. Any workshop implying that pharmacists can legally vaccinate may mislead the public.