Klinik haram: MMA gesa penguatkuasaan lebih tegas

Persatuan Perubatan Malaysia (MMA) has urged health authorities to strengthen enforcement measures at entry points to the country to curb the import of unregistered medicines. The association's president, Dr L Sivanaesan, called for continuous and intensified enforcement actions against illegal clinics and the sale of unregistered medicines, following several findings of such activities throughout the year.

He emphasized that closing down premises involved in such activities should not be an excuse for operators to relocate and open new businesses. Health authorities must also intensify on-site inspections of suspected premises engaged in illegal activities, in addition to regular drug residue checks on sites previously penalized. The enforcement should also monitor the supply chain, including how unregistered medicines enter the country and those who facilitate their entry.

The call for stricter enforcement came after the Ministry of Health (KKM) inspected four premises in Kuala Lumpur selling and storing unregistered medicines, two of which were believed to operate as illegal clinics. These premises were reportedly owned by foreigners. According to the Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya Area Health Department, the premises operated from textile businesses and tour agencies, as reported by The Star.

However, health authorities found equipment for checking blood pressure and blood sugar levels, as well as unregistered medicines during their inspections. Dr Sivanaesan questioned whether consistent and sufficient enforcement measures were in place to prevent such activities from resuming at new locations. He stressed that the use of unregistered medicines, such as antibiotics and medical equipment by unregistered individuals, not only violates regulations but also poses a serious threat to patient safety and public health.

He also warned that improper use of antibiotics can contribute to antibiotic resistance, which ultimately threatens the broader community. This is a matter of patient safety. Medical services must be provided by registered and licensed practitioners, in registered health facilities, and only using approved medicines and equipment for patient treatment.