MOH To Speed Up Device Supply Under Special Access Pathway - Dzulkefly

PUTRAJAYA, April 10 (Bernama) -- The Health Ministry (MOH) will accelerate the supply of medical devices by introducing a Special Access Pathway (SAP), particularly amid shortages caused by the West Asian conflict.

Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad said SAP is an interim mechanism that allows unregistered medical devices to be used, subject to strict quality and safety assessments.

“Suppliers can apply for us to fast-track the registration process,” he told reporters after the 2026 National World Hearing Day celebration here today.

Dzulkefly said the mechanism is important to meet the needs of the health system, including consumables such as gloves, syringes and other essential supplies.

He said SAP is only temporary and will be used in specific cases, such as supply chain disruptions or health emergencies.

Yesterday, the MOH said medicine and medical device supplies would remain secure through stronger buffer stocks amid the current global energy crisis, including by diversifying supply sources and working closely with industry to continuously monitor raw materials and the supply chain so risks can be identified early and addressed more effectively.

In another development, Dzulkefly said the ministry will keep increasing nurse recruitment to meet the sector’s staffing needs, including reviewing appointment conditions and pay.

He said among the steps being taken are easing some existing requirements and considering better pay to make nursing a more attractive profession.

“We are looking at pay and allowances, including possible increases to shift and post-basic allowances,” he said, while stressing that strengthening the nursing workforce will take time and cannot be done quickly.

“There are no shortcuts. At the very least, it takes about three years for a cohort to complete its diploma or degree,” he added.

-- BERNAMA