PUTRAJAYA, May 7 — The Health Ministry has clarified that the enforcement of the Price Control and Anti-Profiteering Act 2011 (Act 723) is aimed at enhancing transparency and affordability in healthcare, not disrupting the operations of private medical practitioners.
PUTRAJAYA, May 7 — The Health Ministry has clarified that the enforcement of the Price Control and Anti-Profiteering Act 2011 (Act 723) is aimed at enhancing transparency and affordability in healthcare, not disrupting the operations of private medical practitioners.
In a statement issued yesterday, the ministry explained that the law—requiring clear price labelling of medicines at private clinics and community pharmacies—is part of its broader strategy to create a fairer and more sustainable healthcare system.
This clarification followed a peaceful protest by over 300 general practitioners (GPs) dressed in black, who gathered near the Prime Minister’s Office in Putrajaya to voice opposition to Act 723. The protest concluded with the submission of a memorandum to the Prime Minister’s senior private secretary, Aznur Hafeez Kaswuri.
Among their concerns, the GPs urged the government to review Act 723 and suggested that the regulation of medical practices remain under the Private Healthcare Facilities and Services Act 1998 (Act 586), which they believe already provides adequate governance.
“The Health Ministry is committed to engaging stakeholders openly and inclusively. Consultation sessions have been and will continue to be held to ensure a balanced approach that avoids undue burdens,” the ministry said.
Professional groups that participated in the protest included the Academy of Family Physicians of Malaysia, the Federation of Private Medical Practitioners Associations Malaysia, and the Malaysian Private Dental Practitioners Association.
The ministry also expressed its willingness to review the memorandum and consider policy enhancements based on data and evidence, while reaffirming that ensuring public access to affordable medications remains a core objective.
The price labelling regulation, part of the Price Control and Anti-Profiteering (Price Marking for Drug) Order 2025, officially came into effect on May 1, jointly enforced by the Health Ministry and the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry. — Bernama
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