On World Multiple Sclerosis (30th May) Day, I joined more than 30 superbikes, patients, caregivers and healthcare professionals for the Ride for Hope 2026 — from Stadium Kota Raja through the Rotary roundabout to Monfort Boys School in Shah Alam. It was a powerful reminder that Multiple Sclerosis is not a distant disease. It is here, among us.
At the event, patients spoke. A young woman diagnosed during pregnancy after severe eye pain. Others now wheelchair bound. Many who appear well but live daily with pain, fatigue and loss of coordination. Their families carry this with them too.
MS attacks the central nervous system, disrupting communication between the brain and the body. It strikes predominantly at young adults — the average age of onset in Malaysia is approximately 29 years. Women are affected five times more than men. The MS Society of Malaysia estimates approximately 1,000 known patients in the country. The true number is likely higher. Many never come forward. Many are misdiagnosed.
MS is not recognised as a disability in Malaysia. Treatment costs between RM3,000 and RM6,000 monthly. Most patients cannot sustain this without support.
Malaysia published the Malaysian Consensus for the Treatment of Multiple Sclerosis 2025 earlier this year — a welcome and significant clinical milestone. It calls for early treatment and endorses affordable options. MMA commends this effort. But clinical guidelines must be matched with access. A guideline that patients cannot afford to act on is not enough.
MS requires a whole-of-nation response. The government, employers, insurers and communities all have a role. Employers must understand that MS patients may look well but need flexibility and support. Insurers must not treat MS as an uninsurable condition. And all of us must know the signs. Early diagnosis changes lives.
MMA is proud to stand with the organisers of Ride for Hope 2026 , President Vignesh Kumar Baskaran of the Rotary Club of Klang Valley, President Mahendran Marimuthu of the Rotary Club of Klang Central, and Organising Chairman Ms Shanthi Thiruchelvam.
Our appreciation to Mdm Padma Panikker, co-founder of the MS Society Malaysia, who has lived with MS for nearly fifty years and remains its most steadfast voice. To President Rizal Al-Amin Aminuddin of the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Malaysia and Dr Ahmad Shahir Mawardi, President of the Malaysian Society of Neurosciences, thank you for your continued leadership. And to every sponsor, volunteer and participant who rode or walked in solidarity.
Awareness must lead to action, support and hope.
Datuk Dr Thirunavukarasu Rajoo
President, Malaysian Medical Association
