The government has agreed to set up a special task force headed by Economic Affairs Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Azmin Ali to look into the alleged monopoly claim in four ministries.
- Finding the best approach and avoid adding costs to procurement methods
- Setting up of a Health Advisory Council
- Disbanding MySihat
Health Minister Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad named the four as the health, transport, agriculture and agro-based industry, and economic affairs ministries.
“A thorough study will be carried out on the monopoly issue by some service providers in the country to find the best approach and avoid adding costs to procurement methods.
“Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad wants this issue to be resolved as soon as possible,” he told a press conference yesterday.
On the procurement method for medical supply, Dr Dzulkefly said they were carried out through open tender, direct negotiation and concession agreement.
“However, through the concession agreement, it is a problem because there are many things that are not transparent,” he said
He added that he welcomed an investigation by the authorities on the monopoly issue at the ministry.
Early this month, the Health Ministry denied allegations that Pharmaniaga monopolised the supply of drugs to public health facilities.
Meanwhile, Dr Dzulkefly said the government had agreed to set up a Health Advisory Council, which would consist of five to seven prominent individuals in various fields. They comprise locals who are recognised as ‘global top leaders’.
Their names would be announced next week.
Dr Dzulkefly said those appointed to the council would serve for two years and their goal is on improving healthcare services.
He also said the government had decided to disband MySihat which focussed on promoting health and wellness in the country.