MALAYSIA – Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr. Dzulkefly Ahmad shared encouraging news about the enforcement of the new Price Control and Anti-Profiteering (Price Marking for Drug) Order 2025, noting that early compliance has been positive since the rule came into effect on May 1.
The Minister highlighted that the focus for now is on educating private healthcare providers about the new requirements. He emphasized that no fines or penalties will be handed out during the first three months, which serve as a grace period for businesses to adapt.
“The grace period is all about giving everyone time to get familiar with the new rules and figure out how to implement the price display measures properly,” said Dr. Dzulkefly during a media briefing on the Lung Health Initiatives Malaysia 2025–2030.
During his visits to several pharmacies and private clinics on the previous day, the Health Minister observed different methods being used to comply, such as QR codes, which allow customers to access price information easily.
Dr. Dzulkefly expressed confidence that the new measures would eventually become standard practice. “I believe that, over time, everyone will be on board. We’re also working closely with general practitioners to make sure the transition goes smoothly,” he added.
The new regulations require that all private healthcare facilities and community pharmacies display the prices of medicines clearly—whether on shelves, in catalogues, or through printed price lists—ensuring transparency for consumers.
In addition to discussing the new pricing rules, Dr. Dzulkefly also applauded the Terengganu state government’s decision to ban the sale of vape products, set to take effect on August 1. This move, he noted, is part of the broader effort to regulate smoking products under the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024. The ban is particularly aimed at protecting younger populations from the risks of vaping, a growing concern.
On the global stage, Dr. Dzulkefly announced that Malaysia will present its Lung Health Initiative at the 78th World Health Assembly (WHA) in Geneva later this month. The country has already garnered support from 14 other nations, including major global players like Russia and China.
“We’ve had discussions with countries like Russia and China, and they have agreed to back our resolution. When they understood our direction, they were compelled to stand with us,” Dr. Dzulkefly said.
The initiative aims to strengthen efforts in preventing, screening, treating, and managing lung-related diseases. Key components of the program include public awareness campaigns on the dangers of smoking and second-hand smoke, as well as the use of artificial intelligence in screening technologies.
With the 78th World Health Assembly set to take place from May 19 to 27, Dr. Dzulkefly is hopeful that Malaysia’s resolution will receive broad support from the international community.
