He said the proposed legislation would serve as a dedicated legal framework to regulate all aspects of the optometry profession in Malaysia, Bernama reported.

“It will be a standalone Act governing the practice, training, registration and scope of duties for optometrists, distinct from opticians,” he said.

Dzulkefly said the Bill is also expected to cover the online sale of optical products, as well as enforcement provisions and penalties to safeguard consumer safety.

“This legislation is crucial in elevating optometry as a recognised, qualified, safe and effective professional field.”

He highlighted the critical role of optometrists in primary healthcare, particularly in the early detection of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as diabetes, hypertension, glaucoma and other retinal conditions.

“Optometrists are not only responsible for managing refractive errors, but also serve as a vital frontline in identifying eye diseases linked to NCDs,” he said.

He acknowledged that Malaysia has yet to meet the World Health Organization’s recommended ratio of one optometrist per 10,000 people.

“We are currently at a ratio of 1:16,000, which affects the health system’s capacity to provide equitable and quality eye care services to the people,” he said, adding that Malaysia produced only about 200 optometrists annually.