HEALTH
Every baby born in Malaysia will receive a child health record book. This record book is an official document issued by the Ministry of Health Malaysia (MOH) to monitor the growth, development and immunization records of babies and children from birth up to 6 years of age. Parents’ responsibilities Parents must read and understand important health information about their child in this book Keep this book properly as it contains references about the child’s health history You are encouraged to communicate and discuss your child’s health issues and status with healthcare staff Bring this book to every clinic/ hospital visit (government/ private) Contents of the Child Health Record Book Some of the main contents include: Birth information Immunization schedule and record Growth chart Regular health check-up record Infant and child nutrition guide (pg. 18–20) Dental health care Parenting and maternal health guide Importance of the record book: Stores all health information including weight, height, head circumference, and physical and mental development. Becomes an important reference for both government and private healthcare workers at every follow-up visit. Ensures children receive immunization according to the National Immunization Programme schedule. Increases parents’ awareness of their child’s health and development over time. Helps with early detection of health issues, developmental delays, or chronic diseases during regular visits. Baby and Child Health Check-up Schedule
Under the National Immunisation Programme (NIP), every baby in Malaysia will receive free vaccination shots according to the schedule set by MOH, starting from birth until 18 months of age. To date, there are 10 types of free vaccines under the NIP to prevent 13 vaccine-preventable diseases for babies and children. Why is vaccination important? Prevents the spread of dangerous infectious diseases such as Tuberculosis (TB), Hepatitis B, Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis (whooping cough) and Polio Increases herd immunity in the community Reduces mortality and disability caused by vaccine-preventable diseases Examples of Vaccines in the Infant Immunisation Schedule The following are some of the main vaccines given to infants and children: BCG – Prevents Tuberculosis (TB) Hepatitis B – Protects the liver from Hepatitis B infection DTP – Prevents Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis Polio – Prevents paralysis caused by the polio virus Hib – Protects against Haemophilus Influenzae Type B infection MMR – Protects against Measles, Mumps, Rubella Pneumococcal – Prevents pneumonia All vaccines used are registered and safe, with approval from the National Pharmaceutical Regulatory Agency (NPRA). Keep your child’s health record book safe as immunisation records are required for primary school registration.
Children with special needs refer to those with differences in physical, sensory, intellectual, learning, behavioral or emotional aspects, who require special support and interventions to achieve optimal development. The Ministry of Health Malaysia (MOH), through primary and specialist health facilities, focuses on early detection, early intervention and continuous support to help these children grow in an environment that supports holistic development. Bring your child to the nearest clinic if there are developmental delays. Common special needs identified: Autisme (ASD) Cerebral Palsy Down Syndrome Specific Learning Disabilities (e.g., dyslexia) Global developmental delay Hearing or visual impairment Services provided by MOH: Developmental screening Early Intervention Programmes for at-risk infants and children Referrals to medical specialists such as family physicians, pediatricians, occupational therapists, physiotherapists, speech therapists, etc. Counseling and guidance for parents and caregivers Health education and parenting training Dental check-ups and treatment Reference:
The School Health Programme is a collaborative initiative between the Ministry of Health Malaysia (MOH) and the Ministry of Education Malaysia (MOE) covering students from preschool to secondary school. For preschool children, the programme emphasizes early detection of health problems, promotion of healthy lifestyles, and age-appropriate basic health education. Health services for preschoolers: Basic health checks: height, weight, vision, hearing Dental health services including dental check-ups, oral health education, and preventive treatment Deworming medication (in certain areas) Interactive health education: handwashing, personal hygiene, healthy eating
As part of efforts to ensure optimal student health, health screenings are conducted in schools at different age phases by the MOH School Health Team. Services provided: Year 1 students Health education Physical exam and vision screening Dental check-ups Additional immunization doses to prevent: Diphtheria Tetanus Year 3 students Students suspected of having learning difficulties by teachers will be referred to specialists/medical officers for confirmation of learning disability status. Year 6 students In addition to physical exams, scoliosis screening is one of the main screenings conducted for Year 6 students.