SHAH ALAM, April 18 — Microplastics should be regarded as an emerging public health concern in Malaysia, as mounting evidence shows the particles are present not only in food and water but also in the air people breathe.
The New Straits Times reported Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) president Dr Thirunavukarasu Rajoo as saying that microplastics are now found across several exposure pathways, making widespread exposure in the population increasingly difficult to avoid.
"From a public health standpoint, microplastics should be viewed as an emerging environmental risk that is now unavoidable.
"Scientific evidence shows they are present in our water, food, and air, meaning population-wide exposure is already occurring," he said.
While research has confirmed that microplastics can enter the human body through ingestion and inhalation, the long-term health impacts on humans remain unclear.
"Laboratory and animal studies suggest potential health effects such as inflammation, oxidative stress, and immune responses, but stressed that direct long-term evidence in humans is still lacking.
"More robust epidemiological studies are needed," Dr Thirunavukarasu said.
He added that the lack of conclusive evidence should not be taken as proof that the particles are harmless, particularly given their persistence in the environment.
Dr Thirunavukarasu also urged the authorities to adopt a precautionary approach, including strengthening monitoring systems, reducing exposure where possible, and expanding research as scientific understanding evolves.
"Current monitoring efforts largely focus on environmental concentrations rather than measuring exposure in humans, highlighting the need for stronger surveillance and research capabilities," he said.
The MMA president also called for a coordinated national response involving multiple sectors, including health, environmental management, and industry.
"A dedicated inter-ministerial committee or Parliamentary mechanism would help align policies and ensure a science-based response," Dr Thirunavukarasu said.
