Malaysia Offers Free Tdap Vaccines to Protect Newborns

Malaysia Launches Free Tdap Vaccination Program for Pregnant Women Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – In a significant move to improve maternal and child health, Malaysia's Ministry of Health (KKM) has launched a nationwide program offering free Tdap vaccines to pregnant women. The program, announced on May 26, 2025, aims to protect newborns from pertussis, tetanus, and diphtheria. Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr. Zulkifly Ahmad stated, "This vaccination is crucial for safeguarding infants, particularly against pertussis, which can lead to serious complications." The program covers women between 28 and 32 weeks of pregnancy and is available at all KKM facilities. While participation is not mandatory, the ministry strongly encourages pregnant women to take advantage of this free and vital service. The initiative is part of a broader immunization strategy, demonstrating Malaysia's commitment to public health and the well-being of its citizens. Over 97,000 senior citizens have already received flu vaccines as part of a similar KKM initiative.