Sabah battles monkey malaria surge and rising non-communicable diseases

Sabah is facing a dual health challenge as monkey malaria cases rise while non-communicable diseases (NCDs) continue to strain resources. In the first four months of 2023 alone, the state recorded 357 infections and one death from the mosquito-borne illness. Meanwhile, the government spends RM64.3 billion yearly to manage NCDs across Malaysia, with Sabah showing alarmingly high rates of obesity, cholesterol, and smoking. Monkey malaria spreads when infected mosquitoes bite humans after feeding on macaques carrying the Plasmodium knowlesi parasite. Ranau, Kudat, and Tawau remain the worst-hit districts in Sabah. Health officials stress the importance of early detection and rapid treatment to control outbreaks. Collaboration with the Wildlife and Forestry Departments is also vital to monitor and reduce transmission risks.

The state’s health struggles extend beyond infectious diseases. Over half of Sabah’s population is obese (50.4%), while high cholesterol affects 32.1% and smoking 24.9%. Sedentary lifestyles are equally concerning, with 57.7% of residents physically inactive. These factors contribute to the country’s soaring NCD management costs, now at RM64.3 billion annually. To tackle these issues, the government is expanding Wellness Hubs—community health centres offering prevention and early intervention services. Currently, 38 hubs operate nationwide, including five in Sabah. The goal is to establish at least one hub per parliamentary constituency. These centres also focus on child nutrition, addressing stunting and malnutrition through targeted programmes.

Sabah’s health authorities are working to curb monkey malaria while battling widespread NCDs. Wellness Hubs play a key role in prevention, offering localised care and education. With continued efforts, the state aims to reduce infections, improve public health, and ease the financial burden of long-term disease management.