Kuala lumpur: The Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) has expressed concern over the recent discovery of illegal clinics operating in the capital, where foreign nationals allegedly pose as doctors and dispense controlled medicines without proper qualifications or registration. Its president, Datuk Dr Thirunavukarasu Rajoo, stated this raises serious concerns over patient safety and regulatory oversight, particularly as these activities are taking place in the capital.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Dr Thirunavukarasu highlighted the risks associated with such practices, emphasizing the dangers of misdiagnosis, inappropriate treatment, complications from unsafe procedures, and exposure to counterfeit or improperly dispensed medications. He noted that medical practice in Malaysia is strictly regulated to protect the public, with only registered doctors holding a valid Annual Practising Certificate legally permitted to practise.
Dr Thirunavukarasu urged authorities to intensify surveillance and enforcement efforts to shut down illegal healthcare operations, pointing out that the recurrence of such clinics despite previous raids indicates gaps in sustained enforcement. He stressed the need for strategically strengthened enforcement activities, especially in areas with a high concentration of migrant workers, as vulnerable communities are often targeted.
He clarified that the issue is not about any particular group but about protecting individuals who may be exploited due to barriers such as cost, language, or lack of awareness of the healthcare system. He emphasized that everyone in Malaysia, regardless of nationality, deserves safe, ethical, and lawful medical care. Dr Thirunavukarasu called for firm inter-agency collaboration, regular inspections, and decisive penalties to deter dangerous activities.
He also advised the public to remain vigilant and to seek treatment only from registered practitioners and licensed healthcare facilities. Earlier reports indicated that the Immigration Department raided nine illegal clinics operating along Jalan Tun Tan Siew Sin last week, some of which had resumed operations after earlier enforcement action. The premises, hidden behind retail shops, were found selling controlled medicines believed to have been smuggled in, including antidepressants, antibiotics, and drugs for chronic illnesses.
The report also mentioned that 18 men (17 Bangladeshis and one Myanmar national) were detained for alleged immigration offences, including the misuse of work permits and not possessing valid documents. The Health Ministry is conducting investigations under the Sale of Drugs Act 1952.