Page 411 - Westport Guide To Malaysia

THE GUIDE TO MALAYSIA 403
Malaysia goes all out to welcome healthcare visitors, with facilities such as the MHTC Concierge and Lounge centres at KLIA (pictured) and Penang International Airport.
Pharmacies are licensed by the Ministry of Health to supply controlled medicines and can be identified by the standard logo (see inset) displayed at the outlet.
before travelling to Malaysia. Visit W malaysiahealthcare. org for further information.
Pharmacies
Pharmacies can be found even in the smallest towns. Pharmacists speak fluent English and can dispense prescriptions, advise on minor medical issues, and supply a wide range of over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins, supplements and other healthcare items.
Availability of Medicines
Visitors should note
that the classification of medicines in Malaysia may be different to their home country. Some medicines that are OTC in their home country may be pharmacy- only or prescription-only
in Malaysia, and vice versa. Uncommon drugs may
not be available in smaller towns, so visitors should always carry their own personal supply of essential medication, providing
those medications do not infringe on the laws of the country. Tourists are only allowed to bring in a one- month supply of medicines for their own use upon entering Malaysia. Prices
for most medicines are in line with or somewhat lower than international norms.
Safety of Medicines and Healthcare Products
The National Pharmaceutical Regulatory Agency (NPRA), under the Ministry of Health Malaysia, is responsible for ensuring the quality, safety and efficacy of pharmaceutical products as well as the quality and safety of traditional products, health supplements and cosmetics marketed in Malaysia, through registration, licensing and post-market surveillance. It serves as
the secretariat for the Drug Control Authority (DCA), the executive body which approves the use of these products
in the market based on evaluation by the NPRA.
Veterinary Care
Animal health is given as much priority as human health. The Ministry of Agriculture provides veterinary services to livestock breeders, as well as quarantine services, health screening and wildlife treatment and rescue. Private veterinary clinics located in all major towns offer modern healthcare facilities for pets and domestic animals. The various state SPCAs organise veterinary care for stray and rescued animals.
It’s not just humans who enjoy
the finest medical care. A horse undergoes surgery at the Perak Turf Club’s high-tech horse clinic.