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🇸🇬 Singapore /Health & Science

Dengue surges in Malaysia, but vaccine take-up lags

From The Straits Times · () English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Context piece
  • Dengue infections in Malaysia have surged 56.2% in 2026, with 58,079 cases and 55 deaths reported so far.
  • Low vaccine uptake is attributed to high cost, lack of awareness, and competition from more affordable vaccines like the flu shot.
  • Health officials emphasize the need for better public education and doctor recommendations to increase vaccine acceptance.

Malaysia is grappling with a significant surge in dengue infections, with cases rising 56.2% in 2026, resulting in 58,079 cases and 55 deaths to date. Despite the escalating health crisis, the uptake of dengue vaccines remains notably low among the population.

A two-dose regime may cost RM420 (S$132) to RM500, depending on the facility, and is generally cheaper in general practitioner (GP) clinics.

— Dr. Shanmuganathan TV GanesonPresident of the Federation of Private Medical Practitioners’ Associations, Malaysia, explaining the cost barrier to dengue vaccination.

Stakeholders point to several key barriers hindering vaccine adoption. Dr. Shanmuganathan TV Ganeson, president of the Federation of Private Medical Practitioners’ Associations, Malaysia, highlighted the prohibitive cost of the two-dose vaccine regime, which can range from RM420 to RM500. He noted that this expense makes it less appealing compared to more affordable options, such as the flu vaccine, which costs less than RM100 and is often preferred by travelers.

People here tend to opt for flu protection, especially travellers, which costs less than RM100, rather than an expensive dengue vaccine.

— Dr. Shanmuganathan TV GanesonExplaining the preference for more affordable vaccines over the dengue vaccine.

Beyond cost, a lack of public awareness and hesitancy also contribute to the low uptake. Zamberi Sekawi, co-chairman of Dengue Prevention Advocacy Malaysia, clarified that this hesitancy does not necessarily equate to an anti-vaccine sentiment. Instead, many Malaysians are undecided, seeking more information on the vaccine's effectiveness, long-term safety, and their doctor's recommendation. He stressed that cost and access are significant barriers, distinct from outright opposition.

The evidence suggests that many Malaysians are undecided rather than opposed. They want to know how effective the vaccine is, its long-term safety, and the recommendation of their doctor.

— Zamberi SekawiCo-chairman of Dengue Prevention Advocacy Malaysia, describing public sentiment towards the dengue vaccine.

The Health Ministry stated in 2025 that it had no immediate plans to include the dengue vaccine in the National Immunisation Programme. The ministry acknowledged the worrying national situation, with case increases initially concentrated in the Klang Valley but now detected in several other states. Intensive prevention and control measures are underway, showing some positive results, but the risk of transmission remains high.

Cost and access must not be mistaken for hesitancy. Since we have to pay for it, it creates an additional barrier.

— Zamberi SekawiDifferentiating between cost barriers and vaccine hesitancy.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by The Straits Times in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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