Traditional Medicine Practitioners: Be Warned
Kuala Lumpur: As of tomorrow, traditional medicine practitioners who are not registered with the health ministry may face legal action, including fines and imprisonment, under the Traditional and Complementary Medicine Act 2016.
From Education to Enforcement
Dr. Tajul Iqmal Tajul Arus, the ministry’s traditional and complementary medicine (TCM) division principal assistant director, explained that the health ministry has moved on from the transition period, which focused on education and awareness. During this phase, more emphasis was placed on educating traditional medicine practitioners about the importance of registering with the health ministry and complying with the act.
Enforcement Phase Begins
From March 1, 2025, the health ministry will initiate the second phase of enforcement, which will involve taking legal action against TCM practitioners who have yet to register with the ministry. This includes individuals who practice TCM without a valid certificate or who fail to display their certificates.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Under the act, individuals who violate the law may be subject to a fine not exceeding RM10,000, imprisonment for a period not exceeding three months, or both. Dr. Tajul emphasized that the health ministry will not tolerate non-compliance and will take swift action against those who fail to comply with the act.
What You Need to Know
- From March 1, 2025, traditional medicine practitioners who are not registered with the health ministry may face legal action, including fines and imprisonment.
- The health ministry has moved on from the transition period, which focused on education and awareness, and is now entering the enforcement phase.
- Individuals who practice TCM without a valid certificate or who fail to display their certificates may be subject to a fine not exceeding RM10,000, imprisonment for a period not exceeding three months, or both.
- The health ministry will take swift action against those who fail to comply with the Traditional and Complementary Medicine Act 2016.
FAQs
Q: What is the Traditional and Complementary Medicine Act 2016?
A: The act regulates the practice of traditional and complementary medicine in Malaysia.
Q: What is the purpose of the act?
A: The act aims to ensure the safe and ethical practice of traditional and complementary medicine in Malaysia.
Q: What are the penalties for non-compliance with the act?
A: Individuals who violate the act may be subject to a fine not exceeding RM10,000, imprisonment for a period not exceeding three months, or both.
Q: How can traditional medicine practitioners register with the health ministry?
A: Traditional medicine practitioners can register with the health ministry by submitting the required documents and paying the relevant fees.