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The Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) has expressed disappointment with the government’s decision to maintain the minimum consultation fee for general practitioners (GPs) at RM10 — a rate that has remained unchanged for 17 years despite a long-awaited fee review
MMA president Datuk Dr Rajoo Thirunavukarasu said the association has long proposed a minimum fee of RM50 to reflect the real value of primary care.
“This decision does not reflect the true value of GPs as the frontliners of our healthcare system,” he said in a statement following the announcement of Belanjawan 2026.
“With over 10,000 clinics nationwide, this low rate could affect the sustainability of clinic operations, encourage price-cutting practices, and create financial pressure that would render the existing model unsustainable in the near future,” he said.
During the tabling of Belanjawan 2026, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced that the consultation fee range for GPs will be revised from RM10–RM35 to RM10–RM80, giving doctors flexibility to charge patients based on the level and complexity of service — while ensuring affordability for the public.
MMA president Datuk Dr Rajoo Thirunavukarasu.
Image via Berita Harian
Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad has defended the decision to keep the minimum consultation fee at RM10
According to Bernama, he reaffirmed that the decision was made to ease the financial burden on the public, especially those without insurance coverage.
“By keeping the floor price unchanged, we’re providing significant relief to the public,” he said, adding that the move reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring all Malaysians can access essential medical care without financial hardship.
While the minimum fee remains, the ceiling fee has been raised to RM80, allowing GPs to adjust charges according to the complexity and duration of consultations.
“For example, a 10-minute consultation for a common cold shouldn’t be compared to a 40-minute session for diabetes, hypertension, or mental health assessments,” Dr Dzulkefly explained.
Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad.
Image via Bernama/New Straits Times
Despite its disappointment over the GP fees, the MMA welcomed the government’s record RM46.5 billion healthcare allocation, describing it as a clear sign of commitment to strengthening the healthcare system
“MMA also appreciates the increase in on-call allowances announced as recognition of the dedication of doctors and specialists,” Dr Rajoo said, though he noted that the association is awaiting details on the actual rate of increase, particularly for medical officers.
He added that the creation of 4,500 permanent positions for contract doctors was a positive step but urged the government to complement it with long-term workforce planning to ensure balanced staffing across critical healthcare areas.
The MMA also voiced support for the government’s move to raise excise duties on tobacco and alcohol as part of efforts to reduce non-communicable diseases.