KUALA LUMPUR – The Malaysian Medical Council (MMC) has moved to reassure doctors affected by delays in receiving their annual practising certificates (APCs), confirming they may continue practising without penalty if applications and payments were submitted by Dec 31.
In a statement, MMC stressed the exemption applies provided the practitioner is not under restriction, suspension or prohibition under the Medical Act 1971. The effective date of the APC will be Jan 1 or the start of professional indemnity coverage, regardless of when approval or issuance takes place.
The council acknowledged a “sharp increase” in applications at the end of last year, compounded by late supporting documents, had slowed processing. It apologised for the disruption and pledged corrective measures.
“MMC will also take necessary steps to ensure that this issue does not recur,” the statement said, adding that uninterrupted medical services remain its priority.
The Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) yesterday highlighted that thousands of doctors, particularly in private practice, were left in limbo despite fulfilling statutory requirements.
MMA president Dr R Thirunavukarasu warned that practising without a valid APC is an offence under the Medical Act, and delays risk jeopardising livelihoods, professional standing and continuity of patient care. – January 3, 2026