10 New Tuberculosis (TB) Clusters Detected This Year, MOH Said

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Malaysia has detected 10 new active tuberculosis (TB) clusters so far in 2026, with all remaining active as at Feb 7, the Dewan Rakyat was told.

Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad said Selangor recorded the highest number of clusters, with four clusters involving 10 cases, according to Bernama.

Johor reported one cluster with 37 cases, while Kedah and Kelantan each recorded one cluster involving two cases. Pahang recorded one cluster with four cases, Perlis one cluster with two cases, and Sabah one cluster involving five cases.

Infographics of Johor Tuberculosis Cluster on PP Health Malaysia (PPHM) — Infographics of Johor Tuberculosis Cluster on PP Health Malaysia PPHM

He was responding to a question from Datuk Dr Ahmad Yunus Hairi (PN–Kuala Langat) during Ministers’ Question Time on Tuesday (Feb 10), who asked for the latest update on TB clusters by state and the number of active cases still under monitoring.

Dr Dzulkefly said TB screening in high-risk institutions such as boarding schools, prisons and worker hostels is carried out based on the Tuberculosis Information System Manual (TBIS 2018). The process includes identifying close contacts, evaluating their risk and conducting screenings.

Screening involves checking for symptoms such as persistent cough, fever, loss of appetite and weight loss, followed by clinical lung examinations. Chest X-rays and sputum tests, including microscopy and culture, are then carried out if required.

To prevent further transmission, he said individuals diagnosed with TB are started on early anti-TB treatment. Close contacts without active disease are screened for TB infection or latent TB and placed on preventive treatment where necessary.

Treatment compliance is monitored daily through Directly Observed Therapy (DOT) at nearby health facilities. Symptomatic individuals are also advised to practise proper cough etiquette, including covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.

The Health Ministry continues to closely monitor TB clusters nationwide and is working to strengthen early detection and treatment services.

Commenting on the TB cluster in Kota Tinggi, Johor, Dr Dzulkefly said the case should serve as a reminder to the public. The cluster involved a 72-year-old Al-Quran teacher, with 37 cases detected as of Feb 7, comprising 29 children and eight adults. All affected individuals are currently receiving treatment at nearby health facilities.

TB is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis and spreads through the air, especially through prolonged close contact.

A TB cluster refers to two or more cases that are linked by time, place or contact, indicating a shared chain of transmission.

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