New MOH rule compels medicine suppliers to report shortages from July 1, ensuring stability despite West Asia risks

KUALA LUMPUR, June 29 — Effective July 1, the Health Ministry (MOH) will enforce mandatory reporting by Product Registration Holders (PRHs) on any disruptions or discontinuation of medicine supply.

The ministry said the mechanism is part of the proactive measures being taken to ensure the stability and control of the country’s imported medicine supply chain, despite risks arising from conflicts in West Asia.

Under the mechanism, PRHs must submit early notification of potential supply disruptions at least six months before they are expected to occur, while immediate reporting is required if disruptions arise unexpectedly.

“The National Pharmaceutical Regulatory Agency (NPRA) will publish this information in the Medicine Shortage and Discontinuation Database, which will be accessible to industry stakeholders, healthcare professionals and the public.”

The ministry said this in a written parliamentary reply to Datuk Shahelmey Yahya (BN-Putatan), who wanted to know about measures to safeguard imported medicine supply chains and preparedness for pharmaceutical security in Sabah.

MOH also said it has introduced mitigation measures, including diversifying supply sources from alternative countries registered with the Drug Control Authority (DCA) to reduce dependence on a single supplier.

On medicine security in Sabah’s public healthcare services, the ministry said supply levels in the state remain stable and under control, despite unique logistical challenges due to geographical factors.

To ensure continuity, MOH is focusing on strengthening inventory planning and stock availability at healthcare facilities, particularly in rural and hard-to-reach areas.

The ministry noted that efforts are also being made to enhance the Sabah state pharmaceutical logistics hub and distribution network to improve storage efficiency and the delivery of supplies to hospitals and clinics across the state.

The ministry also maintains contingency plans for critical medicines, including emergency distribution and stock mobilisation between facilities in the event of local shortages caused by weather conditions or transport disruptions. — Bernama