Overview of Complementary Medicine |
According to Malaysia Traditional and Complementary Medicine Act 2016, the practice of Traditional and Complementary Medicine means a form of health-related practice designed to prevent, treat or manage ailment or illness or preserve the mental and physical well-being of an individual and includes such practices as traditional Malay medicine, traditional Chinese medicine, traditional Indian medicine, Islamic medical practice, homeopathy and complementary therapies, but excludes medical and dental practices used by a medical and dental practitioner respectively. (T&CM Act 2016)
For the past decades, traditional medicine has made significant contributions to the health care of our people. Traditional medicine continues to be patronized by the community to treat disease and maintain health. It is widely acknowledged that the use of Traditional and / or Complementary Medicine (T/CM) is widespread and increasing. Malaysia’s rich tropical biodiversity is a reliable source for natural health products and the government is now addressing its full potential.
For the past decades, traditional medicine has made significant contributions to the health care of our people. Traditional medicine continues to be patronized by the community to treat disease and maintain health. It is widely acknowledged that the use of Traditional and / or Complementary Medicine (T/CM) is widespread and increasing. Malaysia’s rich tropical biodiversity is a reliable source for natural health products and the government is now addressing its full potential.
Complementary Medicine Modalities available in Malaysia:
- Chiropractic
- Naturopathy
- Nutritional therapy
- Osteopathy
- Reiki
- Herbal medicine
- Aromatherapy
- Hypnotherapy
- Shiatsu
- Body Talks
Choosing a CAM Practitioiner
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The World Health Organization (WHO) has played an important role in spearheading T&CM in this region through various publications such as The Traditional Medicine Strategy 2014-2023 and Guidelines For The Appropriate Use of Herbal Medicines. These publications serve to guide and support member states, including Malaysia, in the formulation of T&CM - related policies, implementation of programmes and regulations at the governmental level. At the same time, the promotion of safe and effective use of T&CM should be brought down to the grassroots level reaching the consumers.
Aligned with the strategy of WHO, The Ministry of Health Malaysia has developed Consumer Guideline For Proper Use of T&CM Services in Malaysia as one of the activities under The Traditional & Complementary Medicine Blueprint 2018-2027 (Healthcare). The Consumer Guideline is an initiative of the Ministry of Health in ensuring the needs of the public, as consumers, are always placed in the foreground. The guideline is designed with the focus on the consumer as a simple, straightforward and trustworthy point of reference. Without a doubt, the guideline may even encourage more consumers to be more discerning and to seek for T&CM services with greater confidence and peace of mind. Click the link below to download: CONSUMER GUIDELINE FOR PROPER USE OF TRADITIONAL AND COMPLEMENTARY MEDICINE SERVICES IN MALAYSIA http://tcm.moh.gov.my/ms/upload/garispanduan/consumer/BukuPanduan_BI.pdf (source: Ministry of Health, Traditional and Complementary Medicine Division) |