Putrajaya: Malaysia is currently facing a public health challenge, as approximately 10 per cent of citizens aged 60 and above are living with dementia, according to the findings of the National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) 2025.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the findings, announced on April 20 in Putrajaya, showed an increase from 8.5 per cent in 2018, reflecting an urgent need to strengthen efforts in the prevention and management of conditions which affect memory, thinking, and the ability to carry out daily activities. Head of the Geriatric Unit at Universiti Malaya, Prof Dr Tan Maw Pin, who represents a coalition of dementia-related organisations, described the increase as an early warning to prioritise brain health in the national health agenda.
The rise in cases is not only influenced by age but is also linked to the burden of non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, obesity, and high cholesterol, which are major risk factors for cognitive decline, she said, in a statement to Bernama. The coalition comprises the Dementia Alliance of Malaysia (DAMAI), Alzheimer's Disease Foundation Malaysia (ADFM), Johor Bahru Alzheimer's Disease Support Association (JOBADA), Dementia Society Perak, and Penang Dementia Association.
Dr Tan said that although there have been improvements in several healthy ageing indicators, such as a reduction in depression rates and an increase in older adults' ability to carry out daily activities, these developments are still insufficient to curb the rise in dementia. 'In this regard, the coalition urges the government to accelerate the implementation of the Dementia Action Plan 2023-2030, including allocating specific funding to ensure its effectiveness,' she said.
In addition, the coalition also put forward several key recommendations, including expanding public awareness campaigns to reduce stigma, strengthening early screening at primary healthcare facilities, and implementing prevention programmes focused on healthy lifestyles and chronic disease management. The coalition further proposed more comprehensive support for caregivers and families of patients, through training, respite care services, and the strengthening of community-based services.
'Dementia is not just a health issue, but also has implications for social structures, economic productivity, and family well-being,' she said. She said Malaysia is projected to become an aged nation in the near future, which will likely lead to an increase in dementia cases if no effective early interventions are implemented. 'Through early and integrated action, disease progression can be slowed, patients can live with greater dignity, and families can receive the support they need,' she said.
The coalition stressed that a comprehensive approach, involving the government, healthcare sector, communities, and society at large, is crucial to ensure better care for those affected.