KUALA LUMPUR, 22 February 2026 – Malaysia’s Ministry of Health (MOH) has issued a public health advisory warning of heightened tuberculosis (TB) transmission risk at crowded and poorly ventilated events such as Ramadan bazaars and iftar gatherings, as the country records over 3,000 reported cases so far this year.
The advisory comes amid the start of Ramadan, when large crowds typically gather at outdoor and indoor food markets, communal meals and social gatherings across the nation, conditions that, health officials say, can increase respiratory exposure if someone with active TB is present.
TB Cases on Rise: Latest Figures
According to the MOH’s latest surveillance reports:
- 596 new TB cases were recorded in the sixth epidemiological week of 2026, bringing the country’s cumulative total to 3,161 cases this year.
- Sabah reported the highest number of cases (755), followed by Selangor (596) and Sarawak (332). Other states including Johor, Kuala Lumpur, Kedah and Penang also logged significant figures.
Health officials emphasise that while Ramadan itself does not cause TB, the increased social interaction and prolonged contact in enclosed or poorly ventilated settings can raise the risk of airborne transmission, especially when someone with untreated active pulmonary TB is present.
What the Ministry Is Advising
In its statement, the MOH urged Malaysians to adopt simple but effective respiratory health precautions during the fasting month and beyond:
- Practice good cough and sneeze etiquette (e.g., covering mouth and nose).
- Wear a face mask if symptomatic or when in close proximity to crowds.
- Ensure adequate ventilation in enclosed spaces.
- Seek prompt medical assessment for persistent coughs lasting more than two weeks or other TB-related symptoms.
The ministry also noted that TB generally spreads more slowly than influenza or COVID-19 and usually requires prolonged and repeated exposure to an infected person for transmission, underscoring the importance of sustained preventive behaviour.
Public Health Context
Medical experts and public health advocates had previously warned that festive seasons, including Chinese New Year and Ramadan, can present higher opportunities for airborne diseases like TB to spread due to heavier social interaction and extended indoor gatherings.
The risk is particularly relevant in settings such as community bazaars, densely attended prayer events and indoor communal meals, all common during the holy month, as people interact in close quarters.
Taking Precautions Without Panic
Health authorities stress that there’s no reason for undue alarm, but that awareness and self-care remain essential in reducing transmission risks and ensuring early detection and treatment — both of which are effective in controlling TB at the individual and community levels.
With shared vigilance and simple preventive measures, officials say Malaysians can celebrate Ramadan safely while protecting public health.
