The Ministry of Health (MOH) has officially urged the public to wear face masks when visiting crowded areas, specifically Ramadan bazaars, following a concerning rise in Tuberculosis (TB) cases. New data presented in Parliament revealed that over 17,600 rape cases were recorded in the last decade, but the immediate public health focus has shifted to the 3,161 TB cases recorded so far this year, with Sabah reporting the highest numbers. 

Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad stated that the ministry is intensifying its screening efforts and public awareness campaigns to contain the spread of the respiratory infection. He also addressed concerns about the stateless population, confirming that government hospitals will not turn away stateless children requiring medical attention on humanitarian grounds. 

The advisory comes as Malaysians prepare for the upcoming festive season, with the ministry stressing that "prevention is better than cure" in high-density social settings. Public health officials are also monitoring for any signs of other infectious diseases as travel and social gatherings increase during the month of Ramadan.