"The MMC wishes to clarify the issue concerning the use of the title "Dr" by individuals who have completed medical studies but are not registered as medical practitioners with the MMC. "Permission to practise medicine is subject to compliance with the Medical Act 1971 and the Regulations made thereunder," said Dr Mahathar, who is also Health Director-General. Dr Mahathar urged the public to verify the status of any medical practitioner through the Medical Register Information and Technical System at https://merits.mmc.gov.my. While no names were mentioned in the statement, the clarification appears to allude to the "Dr" title of the new Youth and Sports Minister Dr Mohammed Taufiq Johari. Some quarters have questioned whether his title is valid as he is allegedly not registered to practise medicine in Malaysia despite holding a medical degree from Universitas Islam Bandung, Indonesia.

Source: The Star December 23, 2025 14:54 UTC