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Setting sights on tabling of Optometry Bill in October
Keeping an eye: Dzulkefly (centre) at the launch of the Primary Eye Care Service Guidelines for the Optometry Profession in Putrajaya. — Bernama
PUTRAJAYA: The Optometry Bill is expected to be tabled in Parliament this October, says Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad.
The Health Minister said the proposed legislation will serve as a dedicated legal framework to regulate all aspects of the optometry profession in Malaysia.
'It will be a standalone law governing the practice, training, registration and scope of duties for optometrists, distinct from opticians,' he told reporters after launching the Primary Eye Care Service Guidelines for the Optometry Profession here yesterday.
Dzulkefly said the Bill is also expected to cover online sales of optical products, as well as enforcement provisions and penalties to safeguard consumer safety.
'This legislation is crucial in elevating optometry as a recognised, qualified, safe and effective professional field,' he said.
Dzulkefly highlighted the critical role of optometrists in the primary healthcare system, especially in the early detection of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as diabetes, hypertension, glaucoma and other retinal conditions.
'Optometrists are not only responsible for managing refractive errors. They also serve as a vital frontline in identifying eye diseases linked to NCDs,' he said, Bernama reported.
He acknowledged that Malaysia has yet to meet the World Health Organisation's recommended ratio of one optometrist per 10,000 population.
'We are currently at a ratio of 1:16,000, which affects the health system's capacity to provide equitable and quality eye care services to the people,' he said.
Dzulkefly noted that Malaysia only produces about 200 optometrists annually, reflecting the need for a strategic approach to workforce development through expanded training and capacity building.
The minister also expressed concern over the lack of regular vision screening and the financial burden of treatment, including cataract surgery and the purchase of corrective lenses, which continues to affect the majority of Malaysians, particularly those in rural areas.
He emphasised the need for a sustainable and progressive financing mechanism to ensure that no one is left behind in accessing quality eye care.
