SHAH ALAM: Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad has called for the integration of traditional and complementary medicine (TCM) into modern medicine practices through digitalisation.
He said the initiative would ensure that the wider population, particularly in rural areas, could benefit from TCM.
"We want to take the theme of TCM in the digital era, how we integrate it into the digital ecosystem so it can be practised via telemedicine, especially for those who are far away.
"This practice is common in big cities like the Klang Valley. But remote communities would also benefit from telemedicine and virtual consultations," Dzulkefly said at a press conference after officiating at the 10th International Conference on Traditional and Complementary Medicine.
Present was Health Ministry director-general Datuk Dr Muhammad Radzi Abu Hassan.
In his speech, Dzulkefly said technological advancements such as telemedicine platforms, mobile health applications and data analytics could democratise access to traditional therapies and facilitate the sharing of knowledge and transboundaries best practices.
He added that the innovations would also allow individuals from all walks of life to benefit from TCM's wisdom and efficacy, and bridge the gap between practitioners and patients.
"It is also important to ensure that these innovations are culturally sensitive and respectful of the practices they aim to integrate.
"Collaboration between TCM practitioners, medical professionals, and technology experts will be critical in this regard."
At the event, Dzulkefly also launched the 'Research Priorities in TCM for Malaysia 2024-2029' document, a key reference to guide structured and well-planned research in identified gaps in the field of TCM.