Kuala lumpur: The government has announced plans to establish a national strategic buffer stock to ensure the steady supply of medicines and medical devices as a response to the global energy crisis instigated by the ongoing conflict in West Asia. Economy Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir outlined this initiative as part of a broader strategy to address medium and long-term supply chain disruptions.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the initiative includes transitioning from raw resin materials to polymers for certain medical products and developing a national medicine security policy through the MyMedSecure program. The government also aims to strengthen the local pharmaceutical and medical device industry to mitigate the impact of the global energy crisis on the supply of essential goods.

Minister Akmal highlighted the wide-ranging effects of the crisis, noting that disruptions in the global supply chain could lead to shortages of crucial raw materials such as active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), petroleum, and ethylene oxide gas. These disruptions are likely to increase manufacturing and delivery costs, further stressing the importance of the government's proactive measures.

In the short term, the government plans to implement the Special Access Pathway to maintain the supply of critical medicines and medical devices. This will involve centrally monitoring medicine stocks, diversifying import sources, activating emergency response plans, and designating certain items as controlled goods. These measures were discussed at the National Economic Action Council (NEAC) meeting held earlier today.

Addressing concerns over the impact of the global energy crisis on haj operations, Minister Akmal reassured the public that the safety of the 31,600 Malaysian pilgrims this year is a priority. He emphasized the government's commitment to acting in an organized and comprehensive manner to protect the national strategic supply and ensure Malaysia's economic resilience during these uncertain times.

"Our focus is to manage its effects, reduce its risks, and ensure the people can get through this challenging period as best as possible," Minister Akmal concluded.