Medicine vending machines being considered for PPRs, says Nga

PUTRAJAYA: The installation of vending machines for medicines in people’s housing projects (PPR) is being considered by both the Local Government Development and Health Ministries, says Nga Kor Ming.

The Local Government Development Minister said this could be studied further following the note of understanding signed between the ministries at the Health Ministry here on Tuesday (Aug 22).

"We are studying the possibility of cooperating on this.

"These 24-hour kiosks or vending machines can be placed in PPRs so those who are sick in the middle of the night don’t have to go to the pharmacy for medicine.

"It will be just like how people buy soft drinks," he told a press conference after witnessing the signing here.

"The vending machine can sell medication or vitamins," he added.

The note of understanding between was by Local Government Development secretary-general Datuk M Noor Azman Taib and Health deputy secretary-general (Finance) Datuk Seri Norazman Ayob.

It was also witnessed by Health Minister Dr Zaliha Mustafa.

Dr Zaliha said the note would allow better strategic cooperation in various fields such as disaster management, resource utilisation and knowledge sharing.

"This cooperation will be very effective, even for finance management in relation to Budget allocations for both ministries.

"This way, we can maximise and optimise our resources for the benefit of the people," she said.

Cooperation between both ministries, Dr Zaliha said, had begun in 2016 through the Blue Ocean Strategy.

"At the end of the day, it is the rakyat who will benefit from this cooperation," she added.