Post by : Shakul

The Malaysian government has announced plans to establish a national strategic buffer stock to ensure a stable supply of medicines and medical devices amid the ongoing global energy crisis linked to tensions in West Asia. The move aims to strengthen the country’s healthcare resilience against disruptions in global supply chains.

Economy Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir stated that the initiative forms part of medium- and long-term strategies, including transitioning from raw resin materials to polymers for selected products. He also highlighted efforts to develop a national medicine security policy through MyMedSecure and to boost the domestic pharmaceutical and medical device industries.

He explained that the global energy crisis is not only affecting fuel and logistics but is also disrupting the availability of critical healthcare supplies. Shortages of essential raw materials such as active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), petroleum, and ethylene oxide gas are driving up manufacturing and distribution costs, posing risks to healthcare systems.

As part of short-term measures, the government will implement the Special Access Pathway to ensure the availability of critical medicines and devices. Additional steps include centralised monitoring of medicine stocks, diversifying import sources, activating emergency response mechanisms, and classifying certain items as controlled goods. These strategies were discussed at a recent National Economic Action Council meeting, reflecting Malaysia’s broader effort to safeguard public health and economic stability during uncertain global conditions.

#Asia News #Malaysia News #Health Guide #Economy