KUALA LUMPUR – The free menstrual pads initiative will be expanded beyond the Health Ministry’s building if proven successful, Dr Zaliha Mustafa said.
The week-old health minister said it was being introduced at ministry level first in Putrajaya first so as to gather feedback.
“I would like to clarify that the initiative was started at the Health Ministry’s headquarters so as to observe the operation aspects as well as gather immediate feedback,” Dr Zaliha said on Twitter tonight.
Saya mengambil maklum diatas kekeliruan dan berterima kasih di atas pandangan orang ramai mengenai kenyataan saya yang menyentuh pemberian tuala wanita secara percuma di Ibu Pejabat KKM
— Dr.Zaliha Mustafa (@Zaliha_DrZ) December 13, 2022
The Sekijang MP, who acknowledged the “confusion” and thanked the public for their views, also tweeted that the initiative would be expanded to benefit the public.
She added that although the initiative may seem a small move, it could have a huge impact in addressing period poverty.
“If successful, I can see it being expanded to other health facilities that are strategic and can involve the public.
Dr Zaliha yesterday announced the initiative to make menstrual product available for free in the washrooms of the Health Ministry’s complex.
While it was lauded by some, others also questioned why the ministry was chosen.
Many commented on social media that the initiative should benefit the poor or B40 women, instead of civil servants who earned regular salaries. – The Vibes, December 13, 2022
