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The Health Ministry is exploring a digital medical certificate (e-MC) system to curb abuse, forgery and identity theft
The move follows a crackdown on an online syndicate that has been active since 2016.
According to The Edge Malaysia, five individuals were remanded for allegedly selling fake certificates and using the registration numbers of private practitioners.
Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad said the digital health division will expedite the transition to e-MC
He noted that the ministry will not compromise on such misconduct.
"MCs can only be issued by a doctor or medical officer treating the patient. That is clear. This ethical misconduct is a serious issue, and the MOH will not compromise on it under any circumstances," Dr Dzulkefly said.
"Perhaps this is also a clear signal for us to move towards a digital system or e-MC. This is the way forward in minimising abuse," he added.
Dr Dzulkefly also cautioned the public against using artificial intelligence (AI) tools to self-diagnose high-risk chronic conditions like cancer or heart disease
He stressed that clinical accuracy cannot be compromised, adding that anyone facing health issues should immediately consult medical practitioners at clinics or public hospitals.
"We cannot adopt a do-it-yourself (DIY) approach based on AI. No matter how advanced AI technology may be, it should not be treated as the ultimate source for making medical decisions, whether for screening or confirmatory purposes," Dr Dzulkefly said.
