Reducing reliance on imported pharmaceuticals by developing high-quality, cost-effective generic drugs through local pharmaceutical manufacturing.
Malaysia faces significant dependence on imported pharmaceuticals, which increases costs and supply chain vulnerabilities. One of the main challenges is encouraging local pharmaceutical manufacturers to develop generics that match the quality of international products while being more affordable. This requires substantial investment in advanced manufacturing facilities, skilled labour, and regulatory compliance. The government must provide financial support through grants and prioritise local producers in public procurement to stimulate growth. Additionally, ensuring local manufacturers can meet stringent global standards for safety and efficacy is essential for both market competitiveness and public health outcomes.
This initiative could significantly reduce Malaysia's dependency on foreign pharmaceuticals, lowering healthcare costs and boosting the local economy. It would foster innovation, create jobs, and enhance the nation’s competitiveness in the global pharmaceutical market, ensuring more accessible and affordable medicine for Malaysians.