Kuala Lampur, Sept. 11 -- In August 2025, Malaysia reached a critical milestone in healthcare reform with the launch of its first-ever National Policy on Rare Diseases. This groundbreaking initiative marks a shift toward health equity by formally recognising individuals with rare diseases as a vulnerable group entitled to timely diagnosis, access to treatment, and long-term care. For many years, these patients and their families have faced delayed diagnoses, a lack of available therapies, and mounting financial and emotional strain. Now, with this policy, Malaysia is not only committing to improved care but is positioning itself to lead the Asean region in rare disease management.

The National Policy on Rare Diseases outlines a structure...