A TOTAL of 187 medicines have been identified as high-risk, with supplies of less than 60 days, and are being closely monitored.
This was stated by the Ministry of Health (MOH) on the latest status of the country's medicine supply in view of the risk of global disruption following the current international crisis.
According to the MOH, of the total, only 13 products are critical as the next supply delivery is expected to arrive in more than a month.
“The current status of the supply of medicines in Malaysia is generally under control and sufficient.
“In general, the practice of each facility under the Ministry of Health is to store an average of two to three months of medicine stock, and this practice remains to this day,” MOH said in a written reply in the Dewan Negara.
MOH was responding to a question from Senator Michael Mujah Lihan regarding the current supply of medicines.
The ministry said that for medicines identified as critical, MOH is taking several rigorous steps, including the use of alternative medicines that have equivalent efficacy and safety.
“For example, medicines to relieve pain and fever can be other brands of painkillers. This ensures that patient treatment can continue without affecting the quality of care.
“The ministry is also always in close contact with supplier companies and manufacturers to ensure that new supply deliveries are made on schedule or expedited, if necessary,” it said.
The Ministry further explained that its approach is to implement preventive measures by regularly monitoring stock levels, identifying risky medicines early, and preparing mitigation plans before supply disruptions occur.
MOH said this proactive approach allows action to be taken earlier and reduces the impact on patients.
“Therefore, although there are a small number of drugs in the high-risk category, the situation is still under control through the use of equivalent alternative treatments as recommended by experts, coordination of supplies and close monitoring, thus ensuring continuity of treatment for patients,” it added. – July 24, 2026
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