Malaysia’s population is ageing fast, and with age comes the greater risk of vaccine-preventable infectious diseases, some of which could be fatal. The Malaysian Society of Geriatric Medicine (MSGM) has released a new guide to help healthcare providers, policymakers and families protect older adults with timely, evidence-based vaccinations.
WORDS LIM TECK CHOON
The Malaysian Society of Geriatric Medicine (MSGM) has unveiled its 2025 booklet, Vaccine-Preventable Diseases Recommendations for Older Persons in Malaysia.
This landmark publication represents months of collaboration between doctors, researchers and public health experts, all united by one goal: protecting the health and dignity of Malaysia’s older population.
WHY IS THIS PUBLICATION NECESSARY?
Malaysia, like many countries, is steadily moving toward an ageing society.
- This shift means more than just higher numbers of older adults.
- It challenges our healthcare system to ensure that longer lives are also healthier and more independent.
Vaccines as a Key to Safeguarding the Health and Independence of Older Persons
Vaccine-preventable diseases remain a serious threat to older people, causing avoidable illness, hospitalizations and loss of independence.
Yet, vaccination is one of the safest, most effective and affordable tools modern medicine offers.
To that end, MSGM’s recommendations draw on the strongest scientific evidence while adapting it to Malaysia’s unique context. They promote a “life-course immunization” approach — recognizing that vaccines aren’t just for children but are vital at every stage of life.
More Than Just a Technical Manual
The booklet is more than a technical manual.
It is a roadmap for doctors, healthcare planners and community advocates to make informed decisions about protecting older Malaysians.
It is also a call to action: to strengthen adult vaccination policies, improve public awareness, and ensure that no older person is left behind due to geography or circumstance.
A CLOSER LOOK AT THE PUBLICATION
Where to Get It?
It is available for free download at the MSGM website (link opens in a new tab).
Should Non-Doctors Read It?
The booklet contains many useful information on the types of adult vaccines.
TOWARD A HEALTHIER MALAYSIA
By laying out clear, practical recommendations, MSGM hopes to spark a national conversation about adult immunisation — one that champions dignity, prevention and healthier ageing for everyone.
| This article is part of our series on milestone events in the health landscape. |
