MMA warns against consulting unregistered ‘Dr’ without verification

KUCHING (Dec 30): The Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) has urged the public to verify a doctor’s registration status with the Malaysian Medical Council (MMC) before seeking medical advice or treatment, amid rising concerns over unregistered individuals using the title ‘Dr’.

MMA president Datuk Dr Thirunavukarasu Rajoo said the association noted a recent MMC clarification regarding the use of the ‘Dr’ title by medical graduates who are not yet registered practitioners.

“While academic graduates may use the title Dr, this does not grant the legal right to practise medicine or imply MMC registration.

“Under Section 33 of the Medical Act 1971, unregistered individuals using misleading titles in medical context could face legal action,” he said.

Dr Thirunavukarasu stressed the public should exercise vigilance, particularly in the age of social media and digital health advice, and encouraged verification via the MMC’s official website.

He also called on medical graduates, media practitioners, and digital content creators to act responsibly and ethically when using professional titles in health-related communications.

“MMA will continue to collaborate with MMC and stakeholders to uphold the integrity of the medical profession and maintain public confidence in the healthcare system,” he added.

doctor Dr Thirunavukarasu Rajoo lead Malaysian Medical Association