KUALA LUMPUR: Pharmaniaga Bhd is optimistic of continuing to service the local pharmaceutical industry despite the possible end of its government concession.
Health Minister Datuk Seri Dzulkefly Ahmad today reportedly said Pharmaniaga's concession to distribute drugs and medical supplies for the ministry would end.
He also said that there would be no more concessionaire for logistics and distribution services for medical supplies and an open tender system would be introduced instead.
Pharmaniaga has been the sole concessionaire providing these services and its concession will end on November 30.
However, Dzulkefly said to ensure that medical supplies and health services were not disrupted, Pharmaniaga's services would be extended until the Cabinet decided on the mechanism to manage the open tender.
He added that it would be presenting the matter to the Cabinet for it to decide on the mechanism for open tender, hopefully by the first quarter of next year.
In its statement, Pharmaniaga said it was optimistic of its capabilities to continue serving the nation.
“As the government believes in meritocracy, the company is confident that its performance will be the key factor to continue its services either through extension of concession or open tender contract.
“Pending Cabinet’s decision, it is business as usual and we will continue to provide our best services for the rakyat, consistent with our tagline Passion for Patients,” Pharmaniaga added.
Already operating in 38 sites across Malaysia, Indonesia and Vietnam, Pharmaniaga is positioned to be a regional player in the international pharmaceuticals arena.