Health minister Dzulkefly Ahmad said screenings are crucial, given the alarming number of cancer cases recorded every year.

“More than 50,000 new cancer cases are detected every year, and most are already at stage three or four. By then, it’s too late.

“I want Malaysians to understand the gravity of this situation. Imagine if a family member is diagnosed with cancer – the financial burden alone can be devastating,” he told reporters after attending the 2025 Bald and Beautiful programme at Elmina here today.

He said the ministry, together with the National Cancer Society of Malaysia (NCSM) and several NGOs, is planning a nationwide health screening initiative.

“This is why we emphasise the National Health Screening Initiative. It’s about ensuring people get screened early to detect diseases sooner. Our target is to conduct over one million screenings.”

Dzulkefly said breast, colorectal, lung and prostate cancer were common in Malaysia.

On another matter, he expressed hope that the finance ministry would consider a reasonable allocation for the health ministry in the 2026 budget, to be tabled on Oct 10.

“Typically, we are among the top two ministries receiving the largest allocations. This year, we received RM45.27 billion,” he said.

Dzulkeflu added that the prime minister and finance minister II had already shown strong commitment to supporting the health ministry, with reasonable provisions to continue improving medical facilities.

“They also understand our pressing need to address chronic diseases, including non-communicable diseases and cancer.

“But it’s not just about improving underdeveloped hospital facilities with fair allocations. What is equally important is addressing the morale of healthcare workers.

“Some of our requests, including for revised allowances (for medical workers), will be announced soon. This is vital as we continue to face staff shortages and other challenges.”