Post by : Shweta

Generic Medicines Dominate MOH Spending

PUTRAJAYA — Generic medicines accounted for nearly 78% of Malaysia’s Ministry of Health medicine procurement spending in 2025, according to official ministry records. The government spent RM3.01 billion on generic medicines during the year.

Total Medicine Procurement Reached RM3.86 Billion

The Health Ministry said it spent a total of RM3.86 billion on medicines through three government procurement methods. These included the MOH Medical Supply Logistics Service Concession, Central Contracts and direct purchases by healthcare facilities nationwide.

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More Than 3,000 Generic Medicines Purchased

Generic products represented 3,170, or 79.61%, of the 3,982 types of medicines purchased in 2025. Innovator medicines accounted for RM850 million, representing 22.12% of total pharmaceutical expenditure.

Generic Drug Spending Shows Strong Growth

The ministry said the share of generic medicine procurement increased from 54.22% in 2021 to 77.88% in 2025. The growth is in line with Malaysia’s National Medicines Policy, which prioritises the use of quality generic medicines.

MOH Responds to Different Industry Analysis

The statement followed a media report citing an analysis shared by Pharmaniaga Bhd that suggested the government spent more on innovator medicines than generics in 2025. MOH said the difference may have resulted from varying data sources and procurement scopes.

Local Pharmaceutical Industry Gains Support

Procurement of locally manufactured generic medicines increased from RM1.14 billion in 2023 to RM1.49 billion in 2025. The ministry said supporting local pharmaceutical production remains important for strengthening Malaysia’s medicine supply security.

Quality and Medicine Access Remain Priorities

MOH said it will continue to prioritise quality, safe and effective medicines while managing public resources responsibly. Future procurement will remain based on clinical needs, continuity of supply and equitable access to medicines for Malaysians.

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