Why Eye Health in Malaysia Deserves More Attention
With increasing screen time, rapid urbanisation, and the challenges of tropical living, eye diseases in Malaysia are on the rise. At Malaya Optical, our optometrists see a growing number of patients suffering from common but preventable eye conditions.
This guide explores the Top 5 most common eye problems among Malaysians, along with local statistics, climate-specific prevention tips, and expert recommendations.
Top 5 Eye Conditions in Malaysia (2025)
1. Myopia (Short-sightedness) eye conditions
Prevalence in Malaysia:
- 42% of school children in urban areas now show signs of myopia (Ministry of Health, 2023)
- Rising fastest in children aged 6–12, especially in cities like KL and Penang
Causes:
- Genetics
- Increased indoor/screen time
- Poor lighting and limited outdoor exposure
Symptoms:
- Squinting
- Headaches
- Sitting close to screens or books
Prevention & Treatment:
- Encourage 2 hours of daily outdoor play
- Follow the 20-20-20 rule (look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes)
- Use myopia control lenses like Essilor Stellest™, ZEISS MyoCare, or Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) overnight lenses
Expert Quote:
“Children adapt quickly, so they won’t always tell you they’re struggling to see. Regular eye screenings are key. Ortho-K has helped many of our young patients slow down their myopia,”
Book your child’s eye screening today, early detection is key!
2. Dry Eye Syndrome
Prevalence in Malaysia:
- Affects 1 in 3 adults over age 35
- Especially common among office workers in air-conditioned spaces
Contributing Factors:
- Malaysia’s humid + air-conditioned indoor environments
- Haze exposure and allergens
- Long hours of screen use
Symptoms:
- Itchy, gritty, or burning sensation
- Blurry vision
- Redness or watery eyes
Prevention & Treatment:
- Use a humidifier indoors
- Take visual breaks from screens
- Try lubricating artificial tears or omega-3 supplements
- Wear ZEISS BlueProtect lenses to reduce screen-induced eye fatigue
Dry, irritated eyes? Get a proper diagnosis from our qualified optometrists today.
3. Cataracts
Prevalence in Malaysia:
- Leading cause of blindness in adults over 50
- Over 70% of Malaysians aged 60+ have some form of cataract (MySihat 2024)
Causes:
- Age-related lens changes
- Prolonged UV exposure
- Diabetes, smoking
Symptoms:
- Cloudy or yellowed vision
- Glare sensitivity
- Poor night vision
Prevention & Management:
- Wear UV-blocking sunglasses (e.g., Essilor Xperio Sun, ZEISS Polarized lenses)
- Annual eye exams after age 40
- Surgery for advanced cases
Cataracts are treatable but only if detected early. Book a senior eye check-up with Malaya Optical.
4. Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS)
Prevalence in Malaysia:
- Affects up to 60% of working adults and students in urban Malaysia
- Increased due to hybrid work and e-learning
Symptoms:
- Eye strain
- Blurry vision
- Neck and shoulder pain
Prevention & Treatment:
- Use Blue Light-filtering lenses (ZEISS BlueProtect, Essilor Eyezen)
- Adjust screen brightness and posture
- Follow ergonomic desk setup tips
Experiencing digital eye strain? Ask about our lenses designed for screen users.
5. Pterygium (“Surfer’s Eye”)
Prevalence in Malaysia:
- Common in outdoor workers, drivers, and those exposed to sun and dust
- Seen more frequently in rural or coastal populations
Symptoms:
- Raised, fleshy growth on the white of the eye
- May cause redness, irritation, or blurred vision
Prevention & Treatment:
- Wear wraparound polarized sunglasses with UV400 protection
- Use lubricating drops for irritation
- In severe cases, surgical removal
Get UV-tested lenses and protective sunglasses fitted at Malaya Optical.
Infographic Summary: Common Eye Conditions in Malaysia
| Eye Condition | Who It Affects | Main Risk Factors | Solution |
|---|---|---|---|
| Myopia | Kids, Teens | Screen time, low outdoor time | Stellest™, Ortho-K |
| Dry Eye | Office Workers, 35+ | A/C use, haze, screen time | ZEISS BlueProtect |
| Cataracts | Seniors 50+ | UV, diabetes, smoking | ZEISS Polarized, Xperio Sun |
| Computer Vision | Students, Professionals | Digital device overuse | Eyezen, BlueProtect |
| Pterygium | Outdoor Workers, Drivers | UV exposure, dust | Polarized Sunglasses (Rx Optional) |
Expert Eye Care Starts with You
There are treatments and care for these eye conditions
Every Malaysian deserves access to professional, personalized vision care. At Malaya Optical, we don’t just sell glasses , we build relationships with our patients across generations.
Our qualified optometrists use advanced tools to detect early signs of eye disease, and recommend scientifically backed lens solutions tailored to your lifestyle, whether you’re behind a screen, in the sun, or on the road.
Book Your Eye Screening Today
Your eyes deserve more than generic solutions.
Book a consultation now with Malaya Optical, Malaysia’s trusted name in professional eye care since 1957.