Malaysia urged to monitor pharmacies, prevent drug price hikes

Malaysia's Health Ministry is urged to intensify monitoring of pharmacies nationwide to prevent price gouging on essential medicines, particularly affecting patients and the elderly. Economy Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd. Nasir stated that as of May 8, the majority of the country's drug supply remains stable and sufficient.

According to the minister, 72% of recorded drug items are at low risk, 11.3% at moderate risk, and 16.8% at high risk, necessitating ongoing monitoring and mitigation. For medical devices, 81.7% are low risk, 13.5% moderate, and 4.8% high risk. He noted that raw material and key component supplies face high risk due to import dependency.

The government, through the National Economic Action Council (MTEN), assures the public that drug and medical device supplies are stable and controlled. Mitigation steps have been phased and structured since the crisis began. These include regular supply monitoring by a Special Task Force and immediate strengthening of national buffer stocks for high-risk medicines.

Further measures involve diversifying supply sources through strategic partnerships with countries like China, Japan, and Uzbekistan. A Special Access Pathway has also been activated to expedite approvals for importing critical drugs. Additionally, efforts are underway to develop the local industry for medical device manufacturers to reduce reliance on imports. MTEN has agreed for the Health Ministry to continue these mitigation efforts, ensuring adequate supplies, especially for critical and high-risk items. Any cost adjustments will be targeted based on risk and actual need, with the ministry also advised to enhance price transparency for medicines sold in pharmacies.

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The National Economic Action Council (MTEN) assures patients and the elderly that the country's drug and medical device supplies are stable and controlled.