Malaysia: 10 New TB Clusters Identified in 2026, Johor Cluster a Concern

Kuala Lumpur – Malaysian health authorities are monitoring 35 active tuberculosis (TB) clusters across the country, with a recent surge bringing ten new cases to light in the first seven days of February 2026. The clusters are prompting increased scrutiny of screening and control measures, particularly within high-risk institutions.

Health Minister Datuk Seri Dzulkefly Ahmad informed Parliament on February 10th that Selangor state currently accounts for the highest concentration of active clusters, with 13 cases involving 37 individuals. Kedah and Sarawak each have five clusters, accounting for 27 and 13 cases respectively. Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya jointly report five clusters with 14 cases, while Johor has three clusters with seven cases. Kelantan and Terengganu report two and one cluster respectively, with five and two cases.

The newly identified clusters, reported as of February 7th, are distributed across several states. Selangor leads with four clusters involving 10 cases. Johor has reported a significant cluster with 37 cases, while Kedah, Kelantan, Pahang, Perlis, and Sabah each have one cluster, accounting for two, two, four, two, and five cases respectively.

Dzulkefly addressed concerns raised by Kuala Langat MP Datuk Ahmad Yunus Hairi regarding the status of TB clusters nationwide and the preventative measures in place. He detailed the screening protocols employed in vulnerable settings such as boarding schools, prisons, and worker hostels, outlining adherence to the Tuberculosis Information System Manual (TBIS 2018).

The screening process, according to the Minister, begins with identifying individuals exhibiting symptoms consistent with TB – a persistent cough, fever, loss of appetite, and unexplained weight loss. What we have is followed by a clinical lung examination, chest X-ray, and sputum analysis, including microscopy and culture.

Control measures extend beyond diagnosis, with a focus on ensuring prompt anti-TB treatment for confirmed cases. Individuals identified as close contacts, but not exhibiting active TB, are screened for latent TB infection and offered preventative treatment. Treatment adherence is closely monitored through Directly Observed Therapy (DOT) at local health facilities.

Dzulkefly emphasized the importance of practicing proper cough etiquette – covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing – as a crucial preventative measure. He affirmed the Ministry’s commitment to continuous monitoring of TB cluster situations and ongoing efforts to enhance service quality through early detection and treatment.

A particularly concerning case in Kota Tinggi, Johor, involving a February 10th reported cluster, has prompted a national call to action. The cluster centers around a 72-year-old Al-Quran teacher who was conducting classes. As of February 7th, the cluster encompassed 37 cases, including 29 children and eight adults, all currently receiving treatment at nearby health facilities.

Tuberculosis remains a significant public health challenge globally. The disease, caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis, spreads through the air via close contact with infected individuals. A TB cluster is defined as two or more epidemiologically linked cases, suggesting a common source of transmission.

The emergence of new clusters and the ongoing presence of active cases underscore the need for sustained vigilance and robust public health interventions in Malaysia. The Ministry’s focus on early detection, preventative treatment, and targeted screening in high-risk settings is critical to curbing the spread of this infectious disease and protecting vulnerable populations.

The situation in Johor, with a substantial number of pediatric cases linked to a single teacher, highlights the potential for rapid transmission in communal settings and the importance of proactive screening and contact tracing. The Ministry’s response will be closely watched as it seeks to contain the outbreak and prevent further spread within the community.