Its minister, Khairy Jamaluddin, said the ministry first implemented this method to replace old medical equipment in 2020, with RM19.6 million spent to rent equipment for a five-year period.

In a written parliamentary reply, he said this involved 300 intensive care beds, 33 general surgery and orthopaedic tables, 20 X-ray machines, eight CT scan machines, eight MRI machines and 40 orthopaedic power drills.

“A plan to increase the use of this method of procurement was being considered by the ministry. This method of replacing old equipment will reduce the ministry’s capital expenditure burden.

“It will also ensure that all our equipment are at optimum condition and according to the set standards, since their maintenance will be carried out by the manufacturer,” he said.

In addition, the ministry would possess medical equipment that are in line with the latest technological developments.

Khairy said the ministry had spent RM1.26 billion from 2016 to 2021 to replace old medical equipment, adding that these were done through tender.

About RM67 million had been spent for the purpose until June this year.