KUALA LUMPUR, April 11 (Xinhua) -- Malaysia is working to diversify its supplies of key raw materials, including those derived from petroleum, as well as medical products such as medication and medical devices, Economy Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir said on Saturday.
Cautioning that disruptions stemming from conflict in the Middle East and their impact on critical areas, Akmal told a press briefing that complaints from Malaysian manufacturers about shortages have already surfaced.
"We have received complaints (from companies) about receiving only 2 tonnes of materials for orders of 10 tonnes ... June and July will be a very critical period in ensuring fuel supplies are available and assured. It will be equally important to ensure that our industries also have an ample supply of other raw materials, including those made from fuel," he said.
Meanwhile, Health Minister Dzulkefly Ahmad said the ministry is observing increases in the prices of medicines and medical devices of up to 40 percent following the global energy crisis and supply chain disruptions. ■