Consumers must learn to detect fake medicine, says Liow

Star: KUANTAN: The public has once again been reminded of the importance of differentiating between genuine and fake medicines.
Health Minister Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai said it was important to know whether the medicines were registered with the ministry.
“Those already registered will have the ministry’s sticker. It will be easier if we know where and what to look for so as to detect the genuine and fake medicines,’’ he told reporters after attending a Chinese New Year celebration hosted by the Federation of Kuantan Chinese Associations here yesterday.
The ministry has an existing awareness campaign to teach the public how to differentiate between genuine and fake medicines.
Liow added that consumers could always refer to the ministry or the nearest pharmacy to verify them.
He was asked to comment on claims that there were many medicines being sold with questionable legitimacy.
On Chinese traditional medicines, Liow said these too must be registered with the ministry.
“Enforcement actions will be carried out from time to time.
“Public cooperation is also welcome and they can come forward if they have any information,’’ he added.
Liow said the ministry would draft a new Pharmacy Act as the present punishment for offences were inadequate.
“Culprits are not remorseful despite being penalised with compounds. Because of this, the ministry has to amend the Act.”
He warned medicine sellers not to market their products without registering with the ministry.
On another matter, Liow said the 1Malaysia Clinic was popular in Pahang and the ministry had decided to add seven more, at the cost of RM10mil, in the next five years.
There are now 50 clinics nationwide providing services from 10am to 10pm seven days a week.
Later, Liow visited China Press reporter Chow Siew Chin who was injured following an armed robbery on Tuesday.
Chow, 25, lost RM48,000 when she was robbed of her car and valuables by a knife-wielding man at about 7pm in front of her office at Jalan Lim Hoe Lek here.
Liow advised her and the public to be extra cautious as crime could happen anywhere.