ANN/THE STAR – The Malaysian government is dedicated to promoting transparency in medicine pricing.
The commitment aims to empower consumers by providing them with the necessary information to make informed choices and compare prices.
The ministry is actively exploring measures, including potential price controls, to ensure clarity and comprehensive information for buyers, clients, and users.
“Yes, from this angle, we are now looking into it. We have not made any decision yet, but what’s crucial is our commitment to transparency in prices. The ability to compare prices is essential for consumers, and we are actively working towards that goal,” Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad said after his 2024 mandate speech at the ministry yesterday.
Dr Dzulkefly noted that the government wants a system that allows buyers to access price transparency and compare prices effectively.
As reports of increasing pharmaceutical drug prices emerge in the United States (US), Malaysia may soon face similar challenges.According to Malaysian Pharmacists Society President Prof Amrahi Buang, if drug manufacturers raise prices in the US, prices of medicines imported from that country could rise here by five per cent to 10 per cent.
“Since more than half of our drugs are imported, we can expect prices to increase, usually twice a year, depending on the extent,” he said.
Federation of Private Medical Practitioners Associations Malaysia president Dr Shanmuganathan Ganeson said the price of pharmaceutical drugs and all essential goods would continue to increase.
“This is due to the rising input costs worldwide, such as raw materials, labour, energy and taxes. Malaysia, in particular, will see an increase with the increase of service tax (from six per cent to eight per cent), particularly logistics, starting this year,” he said.
On another matter, asked about a possible increase in Covid-19 infections during the upcoming Chinese New Year celebrations, Dr Dzulkefly urged the public not to panic.
He emphasised the importance of staying vigilant and following preventive measures.
“We don’t need to panic but be cautious and continue to practise the standard operating
procedures that have become routine.”
Reference : https://borneobulletin.com.bn/malaysia-committed-to-transparent-medicine-pricing/
