Dear Editor,
I WOULD like to comment on the standards of optometry and optical services
in Malaysia.

I was recently told by qualified and licensed eye-care professionals that they were forced to compete with unqualified and unlicensed practitioners. These unqualified eye-care professionals comprise of individuals who have no relevant education background and experience relating to optometry. They also operate their businesses illegally, not just providing their clients, young and old, incorrect prescriptions for eyeglasses and lenses, but are also unable to diagnose, treat and manage eye diseases or disorders. These fake professionals go to the extent of buying fake licences and qualifications to enable them to operate. As a result, the Malaysian public is fooled by such charlatans, who only care about making money. Optometry, like any other health sciences profession, consists of optometry education, certification and practice, which are regulated in most countries and the local and international optometry councils. It is a practice as tough as medicine and dentistry, requiring that the candidate not only score straight As in his Form Six and/or pre-university entrance exams, but also spend at least five years studying for a Bachelors Degree in optometry at university, usually overseas, in countries like Britain, New Zealand, the US, Ireland and Australia. This is then followed by one or two years of practicum at a hospital or optometry shop under the supervision of a qualified and experienced practitioner. Upon the successful completion of optometry school and practicum, the candidate would be eligible to register as an optometrist with the optometry council. All qualified, licensed eye-care professionals are also required to undertake courses to stay current on the latest standards of eye care. A true qualified, licensed optometrist not only knows about ocular health, handles his optical instruments properly, and is able to make a diagnosis, but is always able and willing to deliver great eye-care service to the community. I do not want to see the future generation, especially children, suffering from non-treatable, serious eye problems as a result of a failed diagnosis by illegal, unqualified eye-care professionals. I hope the Health Ministry and the authorities will put a stop to their illegal trade before more harm is done. Qualified, licensed eye-care optometrists do not deserve to be replaced by these charlatans.

Source: Malay Mail – March 31, 2008