Kuala Lumpur:The Ministry of Health (MOH) has proposed implementing a mandatory health insurance mechanism for refugees and asylum seekers registered under the Refugee Registration Document (DPP).
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Deputy Health Minister Datuk Hanifah Hajar Taib stated that this initiative aims to cover treatment costs for these individuals and reduce unpaid medical bills by non-citizen patients. The issue is partly due to collection process weaknesses, financial constraints, lack of insurance coverage, and patients leaving without settling their payments. Moreover, incomplete or inaccurate identity and contact information has complicated efforts to trace patients and follow up on collections.
Hanifah emphasized the need for a whole-of-government approach, involving the Immigration Department, Home Ministry, and Foreign Ministry, to address these issues effectively, including verifying identity documents. She highlighted that over 80% of outstanding medical bills are attributed to undocumented migrants and stateless persons. Nonetheless, the MOH is committed to providing treatment to all patients on humanitarian grounds, especially in life-threatening situations, in line with international declarations and oaths.
The revenue-related Accounts Receivable (AR) has decreased from RM359 million in 2024 to RM336 million in 2025, showing a reduction of RM23 million. Measures implemented by MOH healthcare facilities include issuing reminder letters, notices of demand or legal action, contacting embassies and next of kin, and making claims against employers. The MOH is also reinforcing the 'collect before discharge' policy, expanding cashless payments, and enhancing AR monitoring.
Collaboration with employers, insurance companies, and NGOs is being strengthened, along with increasing bank guarantee values for employers and private companies to match rising treatment costs. Hanifah hopes for continued efforts by the ministry and government agencies to enforce and manage foreign nationals' entry, particularly undocumented migrants and refugees, to sustain the healthcare system.
In related news, Minister of Housing and Local Government Nga Kor Ming addressed issues involving projects in Sabah, focusing on resolving them and preventing recurrence, while remaining committed to finding solutions for the well-being of the people.