BUTTERWORTH: The usage of generic medicines is a strategic move to help lower-income groups access affordable treatment without compromising safety or effectiveness, says Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad.
The Health Minister stated that generic drugs are bioequivalent to their original counterparts, ensuring the same efficacy while significantly reducing costs for patients.
"Over the past two years, the ministry’s generic-first policy has saved the government RM900mil, and we expect these savings to continue growing," he said. Dr Dzulkefly urged the clinical community, including specialists and medical practitioners, to prioritise prescribing generic medicines to support national healthcare sustainability.
Speaking at a press conference following the official opening of the new Seberang Jaya Hospital building on Saturday (Jan 24), the Minister also addressed delays in Health Ministry projects.
He noted that the ministry is working closely with the Public Works Department (JKR) to monitor "sick" or stalled projects through a development committee that meets every two to three months.
"We collaborate with JKR at both federal and state levels as they are the implementing agency, while the ministry acts as the client," he said. Dr Dzulkefly highlighted that several hospital projects, including those in Putrajaya and Papar, had faced unacceptable delays of more than 10 years.
"Waiting this long is a burden on the public. Contractors must fulfill their responsibility and complete projects within the stipulated timeframe," he added.
The new RM371mil Seberang Jaya Hospital building, which was officiated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim earlier today, is part of the government's broader effort to ensure healthcare remains high-quality and accessible to all Malaysians.
