Kuala lumpur: The herbal product 'Hong Thai Inhaler' is not registered with the Drug Control Authority (DCA) and is prohibited from sale in Malaysia after being recalled in Thailand due to contamination with harmful bacteria.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Ministry of Health (MOH) stated that immediate control measures had been taken, including screening sales on e-commerce platforms, blocking links of involved sellers, and ongoing monitoring and enforcement against those still marketing the product.
The Pharmacy Enforcement Division (PED) identified 335 advertisement and sales links for the product by both local and foreign sellers and has informed the platforms involved to remove the listings to safeguard consumer health.
The public is urged to stop using the product immediately and to seek medical attention if they experience any side effects or suspicious symptoms.
The MOH highlighted that the sale and possession of unregistered medicines is an offence under Regulation 7(1)(a) of the Control of Drugs and Cosmetics Regulations 1984, carrying penalties under Section 12 of the Sale of Drugs Act 1952, which include a fine of up to RM25,000 or imprisonment of up to three years. Companies may face fines of up to RM50,000.
The ministry continues to actively monitor advertisements for medicines and health services, including on e-commerce platforms, to ensure compliance with the Sale of Drugs Act 1952, Poisons Act 1952, and Medicines (Advertisement and Sale) Act 1956.
Between January and September 30, 2025, a total of 25,335 medical advertisements were screened, 1,958 URLs requested for blocking, and 11,287 URLs notified to local e-commerce platforms for removal. The total value of seized unregistered products during this period was RM41.3 million, involving 10,442 items.
In addition to enforcement actions, the PED has launched the 'Reject Unregistered Medicines' (TOBaTS) campaign to increase public awareness of the risks associated with using unauthorised health products. More information can be found at .
The public is advised to verify the registration status of medicines through the hologram security label and registration number (MAL) before purchasing. Verification can be done on the National Pharmaceutical Regulatory Agency (NPRA) website atunder the 'Product Search' section.
Complaints or information about the sale of unregistered medicines can be submitted via the Public Agency Complaint Management System (SisPAA) at, any nearby Pharmacy Enforcement Branch, or by calling 03-7841 3200.