Malaysia’s Ministry of Health (MOH) reported total spending on medicines in 2025 reached RM3.86 billion, covering all government procurement methods [1, 2]. Of this, RM3.01 billion, or 77.88%, was spent on generic medicines, involving 3,170 out of 3,982 types procured [1, 2]. Innovator drugs accounted for RM850 million, or 22.12% of the total pharmaceutical expenditure in 2025 [1, 2].
The share of generic medicine procurement increased significantly from 54.22% in 2021 to 77.88% in 2025, reflecting Malaysia’s National Medicines Policy prioritising generic options [1, 2]. Meanwhile, the value of locally manufactured generic medicine procurement rose from RM1.14 billion (44.21% of generic procurement) in 2023 to RM1.49 billion (49.57%) in 2025 [2].
The MOH acknowledged discrepancies with Pharmaniaga’s reported figures, which claimed government spending was about RM3.495 billion with innovator drugs exceeding generic drug expenditure. The ministry said these differences were likely due to variations in data sources and procurement scope used in the analyses [1].
The Ministry stated that it "continues to prioritise the procurement of quality, safe and effective medicines while ensuring that public resources are managed prudently and sustainably" [1]. The official added, "MOH always prioritises the procurement of quality, safe and effective medicines, while ensuring prudent and sustainable management of public resources" [2].
The ministry’s clarification marks the most detailed government update on pharmaceutical spending for 2025, showing a steady shift toward generics as part of national health policy. Further procurement data is expected with the upcoming annual budget reporting cycle.
