malaysiang
PUTRAJAYA: An allocation of RM87.1 million under Budget 2025 has been designated for the procurement of sodium-glucose transport protein 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors, set to benefit 280,231 diabetic patients. Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad emphasized that this funding aims to reduce complications for diabetic patients, particularly those related to cardiovascular and kidney issues, which often incur higher costs.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Dr Dzulkefly stated that this initiative aligns with the Ministry of Health’s shift from ‘sick-care’ to ‘health-care’, aiming to enhance the effectiveness and sustainability of the national health system in the long term. He announced that the Ministry of Health will unveil the Prevention and Control of Noncommunicable Diseases in Malaysia: The Case for Investment 2021 report, developed in collaboration with the World Bank, on November 14.
Dr Dzulkefly highlighted the ‘War on Sugar’ campaign, a government effort to reduce sugar consumption among the populace
as a strategy to combat non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like diabetes. The Strategic Plan to Reduce Sugar Among Malaysians 2024-2030, launched on June 29, includes six main strategies with 38 initiatives and 65 activities, covering policies, advocacy, and comprehensive public-private cooperation.
He added that cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes, and chronic respiratory diseases are significant contributors to 72 percent of premature deaths in Malaysia. The health minister noted that the impact of these diseases extends beyond public health, imposing a significant burden on the country’s economy.
Quoting from the Prevention and Control of Noncommunicable Diseases in Malaysia: The Case for Investment 2021 report, Dr Dzulkefly mentioned that the total economic burden of the four NCDs is estimated at RM64.2 billion. This figure includes direct healthcare costs borne by the government, totaling RM12.4 billion annually, as well as indirect costs stemming from productivity losses due to absenteeism, present
eeism, and premature deaths.
Dr Dzulkefly pointed out that diabetic complications often lead to presenteeism and absenteeism, with symptoms such as fatigue, blurred vision, and increased infection risk. He noted that cardiovascular disease and diabetes alone have resulted in RM1.8 billion in absenteeism losses, with presenteeism accounting for RM30.2 billion.
In the long term, these health issues are expected to cause significant economic losses for the country due to decreased workforce performance, productivity, and economic competitiveness, as diabetic patients may struggle with concentration and meeting demanding work requirements.
