Dengue cases soar 66pc, deaths hit 62 in Malaysia, almost double 2025 toll

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 9 — Dengue fever cases have surged by 66 percent nationwide, with 65,979 infections reported in Epidemiological Week 35 compared to 39,616 during the same period last year, according to Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil, the unity government spokesman. The issue was among the topics discussed in the Cabinet meeting today, with a significant increase in dengue-related deaths.

As of the 35th epidemiological week, there have been 62 dengue-related deaths, compared to 32 cases in the same period last year. Fahmi, who is also the communications minister, briefed the Cabinet on the dengue problem's marked increase, stating that 2025's cumulative death toll by the 35th week of the epidemic reached 62 cases, representing a 93.8 percent rise compared to the same period in 2026.

The Cabinet also discussed potential measures to address the surge in cases, including the implementation of gotong-royong (mutual aid) programs. The Housing and Local Government Ministry (KPKT) will be responsible for organizing these programs, particularly in red zones or areas experiencing outbreaks. Fahmi added that the Cabinet was informed about the success of the Wolbachia mosquito breeding program in Putrajaya, which inhibits the reproduction and spread of the Aedes mosquito dengue virus.

However, the Cabinet was also informed about the impact of "fogging" activities on Wolbachia mosquitoes, as these efforts can lead to their death.