Govt Saves RM1 Billion Through Generic Drug Procurement, Says Anwar

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim highlights the cost-saving impact of adopting generic medicines in the national healthcare system.

PUTRAJAYA: The government has saved approximately RM1 billion by procuring generic drugs instead of branded medicines, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said today, emphasizing that this move strengthens the sustainability of Malaysia’s healthcare system while maintaining quality patient care.

Anwar explained that generic medicines offer the same therapeutic benefits as their branded counterparts but at a significantly lower cost, allowing the Ministry of Health to allocate resources more efficiently and expand access to essential medicines for Malaysians.

“This initiative demonstrates our commitment to providing affordable and high-quality healthcare for all citizens. By adopting generic drugs, we can reduce unnecessary expenditure while ensuring patients receive the treatments they need,” he said during a press briefing.

According to the Prime Minister, the savings achieved will be reinvested in the public healthcare system to improve hospital facilities, upgrade medical equipment, and expand healthcare services to underserved communities.

Anwar also noted that the move aligns with global best practices, as countries around the world increasingly rely on generic medicines to control healthcare costs without compromising patient outcomes.

He added that public awareness campaigns have been conducted to educate patients and healthcare providers about the safety and efficacy of generic drugs, aiming to overcome misconceptions and encourage acceptance among medical professionals and the public.

The Prime Minister reaffirmed that the government will continue exploring cost-effective solutions, including bulk procurement strategies and digital supply chain management, to ensure that Malaysia’s healthcare system remains robust, sustainable, and accessible to all.

“Smart procurement of medicines is not just about saving money—it’s about building a resilient healthcare system that benefits every Malaysian,” he said.

The announcement comes as part of the government’s broader efforts to reform healthcare spending and enhance efficiency while maintaining high standards of medical care nationwide.