The Galen Centre for Health and Social Policy has renewed its call, ahead of the tabling of the 2026 budget, for a national health and social insurance scheme to provide funding for both health and aged care.
Galen CEO Azrul Khalib said adopting scheme rates similar to Social Security Organisation contributions (1.75% employer, 0.5% employee) would raise at least RM6 billion annually.
“It could provide a means to improve treatment and care options, expand human resource options, and be a critical resource during times of crisis.
“A portion of the funds collected could ensure that aged care is properly funded and sustained,” he said in a statement today.
Azrul also called for the complete removal of all sugar subsidies and the removal of sugar from the schedule of controlled…