In a statement, the ministry said it is strengthening its medicine and medical device supply chain, diversifying its supply sources, and continuously monitoring raw materials.

It also said it is collaborating with industry players to identify potential disruption risks as early as possible to address them in a targeted manner.

“This crisis has affected the global supply chain by impacting the delivery of medicines and medical devices,” it said.

“It has also created instability in accessing several critical medical devices, especially imported products.

“This has affected suppliers’ ability to meet contractual obligations and may potentially impact healthcare service delivery if not addressed promptly.”

The ministry said it is managing its supply of medicines and medical devices prudently based on clinical needs, and is preparing alternative clinical treatment plans.

It added that it has implemented special access pathways, activated emergency response plans, identified controlled items, and expanded the use of e-labelling for medical devices.

Earlier today, the Malaysian Medical Association proposed that the government prioritise medicines from the National Essential Medicines List when establishing strategic buffer stocks.

The health ministry previously said medicine supplies remained stable, with government facilities maintaining one to three months of stock, supported by buffer reserves held by private concessionaire companies supplying medicines through logistics agreements.