Sejarah Kesihatan Awam di Persekutuan Tanah Melayu, 1948–1956: Tren Penyakit Berjangkit, Usaha Kawalan dan Pencegahan (History of Public Health in The Federation of Malaya, 1948-1956: Trends in Infectious Diseases, Control Measures and Prevention)

Abstract

This article examines the history of public health in Federation of Malaya during the pre-independence period from 1948 to 1956, with a particular focus on trends and British efforts in the control and prevention of infectious diseases. A qualitative approach was employed, based on an analysis of historical documents. The primary sources utilised were the Annual Reports of the Medical Department of the Federation of Malaya for the years 1948 to 1956. From the analysis of these reports, fifteen infectious diseases were identified, including tuberculosis (TB), malaria, typhoid fever, diphtheria and others. The presence of these diseases necessitated the implementation of strategies and measures by the British to control and prevent their spread. The findings also indicate that infectious diseases constituted a major contributor to mortality, with tuberculosis emerging as the leading cause of death. A range of public health policies was introduced by the British administration, including immunisation programmes, vector-control campaigns, the establishment of medical institutions, and the expansion of rural health services. Despite challenges such as a shortage of personnel, difficult terrain, and security threats, the overall trend demonstrated a decline in the incidence and mortality rates of several infectious diseases by 1956. This decrease was achieved through sustained British efforts to contain and prevent the further spread of such diseases.