Shah Alam, 12 April 2026 – Malaysia reinforced its commitment to tackling the growing burden of chronic kidney disease (CKD) at the World Kidney Day 2026 celebration, jointly organised by National Kidney Foundation of Malaysia (NKF) and the Malaysian Society Of Nephrology (MSN).
The event was officiated by YB Datuk Seri Dr. Dzulkefly Ahmad, Minister of Health Malaysia, and was also attended by YB Puan Jamaliah binti Jamaluddin, EXCO Kesihatan Awam dan Alam Sekitar Selangor, as well as YBrs Tuan Haji Mohd Firdaus bin Mokhtar, Ahli Majlis Bandaraya Shah Alam (MBSA).
At the launch event, Minister of Health Malaysia, YB Datuk Seri Dr. Dzulkefly Ahmad, underscored the importance of a sustainable and inclusive healthcare approach:
“Chronic kidney disease presents a growing challenge that requires a comprehensive and coordinated national response. The Ministry of Health remains committed to strengthening prevention, early detection and patient-centred care, while ensuring that our healthcare system remains sustainable and accessible to all Malaysians.”
As part of its continued commitment to improving access to kidney care, NKF announced plans to expand its services in 2026.
This includes the establishment of four (4) new Peritoneal Dialysis (PD) and CKD centres, as well as the planned development of four (4) additional dialysis centres, particularly in underserved regions such as Sabah and Sarawak.
A Growing National Health Priority
Chronic kidney disease continues to be a major public health concern in Malaysia, with an estimated 1 in 7 adults affected.
More than 50,000 Malaysians currently require renal replacement therapy, with thousands of new patients commencing treatment annually.
This rising trend, driven largely by diabetes and hypertension, places increasing pressure on the healthcare system and underscores the urgent need for stronger prevention, early detection and long-term disease management strategies.
These efforts are aimed at ensuring more equitable access to treatment, while supporting care models that enhance patients’ quality of life.
Senior Consultant Nephrologist and Member of the Board of Directors, National Kidney Foundation of Malaysia (NKF), Dr. Sunita Bavanandan emphasised the need for sustained collective action:
“Chronic kidney disease is not just a clinical issue — it is a growing national concern that requires a coordinated and sustained response. Through stronger awareness, early detection and improved access to high-quality care, we can significantly reduce its impact on individuals, families and the healthcare system.”
Advancing a More Holistic and Sustainable Approach
Held under the global theme “Kidney Health for All – Caring for People, Protecting the Planet,” the event emphasised the importance of a holistic and patient-centred approach to CKD management; one that integrates physical health, emotional wellbeing, nutrition and medication adherence with guidance and support from medical healthcare professionals.
A total of 400 participants from across the healthcare and community sectors came together to discuss awareness, prevention and sustainable models of kidney care.
Key highlights included a multidisciplinary forum titled “Emotional Wellbeing, Diet and Medication Care: Finding Calm and Purpose in the Journey with CKD,” alongside an insightful session, “Eat Well, Live Green,” which highlighted the role of sustainable lifestyle choices in supporting both individual health and environmental responsibility.
President of the Malaysian Society of Nephrology, Professor Dr Lim Soo Kun, highlighted the importance of collaboration and professional advancement:
“World Kidney Day provides an important platform to strengthen collaboration among healthcare professionals and stakeholders. By advancing clinical knowledge, sharing best practices and promoting early intervention, we can continue to improve patient outcomes and elevate the standard of kidney care in Malaysia.”
Strengthening Partnerships for Greater Impact
The success of World Kidney Day 2026 reflects the importance of strong partnerships across sectors.
NKF and MSN reaffirmed their commitment to working closely with the Ministry of Health, healthcare professionals, industry partners and the wider community to address the challenges of CKD in Malaysia.
“As co-organisers, NKF and MSN extend our appreciation to all partners, sponsors and participants for their support in making this year’s World Kidney Day celebration a success. We would like to extend special thanks to Majlis Bandaraya Shah Alam (MBSA) for their generous support and collaboration in hosting this event,” Dr. Sunita added.
By strengthening collaboration and expanding support mechanisms, both organisations aim to ensure that no patient is left behind, while advancing a more inclusive and responsive kidney care ecosystem in Malaysia.