Health minister Dzulkefly Ahmad said this is in response to global challenges in sourcing raw materials, dealing with the energy crisis, and overcoming the increasing surge in logistics costs worldwide following the tensions in West Asia.

He said the task force is implementing real-time data monitoring in addition to diversifying sources of drug procurement from the international market, Bernama reported.

This will ensure the country’s supply remains stable.

“At the same time, we always ensure that the frontline stock buffer for medicines categorised as critical remains strong and can last more than 60 days to protect our patients,” he said in a Facebook post.

Dzulkefly said an early warning mechanism has been activated for suppliers to report any potential shortage of supplies at least six months in advance.

“For the supply of medical devices, the Medical Devices Authority has entered into a strategic agreement with authorities in China to stabilise the supply of critical manufacturing raw materials such as resin and naphtha.

“This will enable our local manufacturers to operate without interruption.

“A special access pathway has also been provided to expedite the entry of urgent medical equipment to ensure smooth operations in operating theatres and hospitals,” he said.

Dzulkefly said a whole-of-government approach will be taken to ensure patients are not affected by any future global shocks.

“This is to ensure that each strategic plan is translated into swift and organised action on the ground,” he said.