PUTRAJAYA: The government wants to ensure transparency in medicine pricing so that consumers can compare prices and make informed choices, says Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad.
There should be clear and comprehensive information to buyers, clients and users, he said.
“We are now looking into it. We have not yet made any decision, but what’s crucial is our commitment to transparency in prices.
“The ability to compare prices is essential for consumers. We are actively working towards this goal,” he said here yesterday.
Dr Dzulkefly was asked about a report in The Star yesterday in which the Malaysian Pharmacists Association indicated that prices of drugs from the US market could go up by between 5% and 10% this year.
It said that about half of the medications here are imported.
Malaysian medical practitioners said there would be at least a 2% price increase due to factors such as the rising cost of raw materials and labour, government taxes and the weak exchange rate.
This came following a Reuters report that drugmakers would raise prices of about 500 drugs in the United States this month.
When asked about the possibility of an increase in Covid-19 infections during the Chinese New Year celebration next month, Dr Dzulkefly said the public should stay vigilant and follow preventive measures.
“We don’t need to panic. But be cautious, continue to practise the SOP (standard operating procedure) that has become routine. Those experiencing symptoms such as cough should wear a face mask,” he added.
