MMA Calls For Stronger Enforcement Against Illegal Clinics In KL

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 19 (Bernama) -- The Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) has expressed deep 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, said this raised serious concerns over patient safety and regulatory oversight, particularly as the activities are taking place in the capital.

“It is particularly shocking that such activities are taking place in the capital city, raising serious concerns about patient safety and regulatory oversight. These unscrupulous practices endanger lives.

“Patients risk misdiagnosis, inappropriate treatment, complications from unsafe procedures and exposure to counterfeit or improperly dispensed medications. Medical practice in Malaysia is strictly regulated to safeguard the public, and only doctors registered with the Malaysian Medical Council and holding a valid Annual Practising Certificate are legally permitted to practise,” he said in a statement today.

Dr Thirunavukarasu urged authorities to intensify surveillance and enforcement efforts to shut down illegal healthcare operations, noting that the recurrence of such clinics despite previous raids pointed to gaps in sustained enforcement.

He said enforcement activities should be strategically strengthened, especially in areas with a high concentration of migrant workers, as vulnerable communities were often targeted.

“This is not about any particular group, but about protecting individuals who may be taken advantage of due to barriers such as cost, language, or lack of awareness of the healthcare system.

“Every person in Malaysia, regardless of nationality, deserves safe, ethical and lawful medical care. Firm inter-agency collaboration, regular inspections and decisive penalties are necessary to deter such dangerous activities,” he said.

He also advised the public to remain vigilant and to seek treatment only from registered practitioners and licensed healthcare facilities.

Earlier, the media reported that the Immigration Department raided nine illegal clinics operating along Jalan Tun Tan Siew Sin here 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.

According to the report, a total of 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, while the Health Ministry is conducting investigations under the Sale of Drugs Act 1952.

-- BERNAMA