He said nearly 44,000 cases were recorded in 2025 through the National Otorhinolaryngology Registry.

“The highest number was recorded among adults and the elderly, who accounted for 86.4% of the total,” Sinar Harian quoted him as saying.

Dzulkefly also noted that, as of February 2026, 50,413 individuals were registered as hearing-impaired with disabilities.

He attributed the increase in part to an ageing population and prolonged exposure to noise, including in the workplace and daily life.

He said the rising numbers highlighted the urgent need for early screening and public awareness to prevent serious outcomes.

Dzulkefly said infections and genetic factors were among the causes. “Many only seek treatment when the condition has already become severe,” he said, noting that this reduces the chances of full recovery, particularly when nerve damage is involved.

He said although medical technology has advanced, prevention remained the most effective approach.

He urged the public to watch for early signs such as difficulty hearing in noisy environments or the need to excessively increase device volume.

He said the health ministry had also increased newborn screening and early intervention programmes to detect hearing issues and prevent speech and learning difficulties in children.