Non-medical face mask producers, importers must apply for Sirim certification

 

Effective July 4, manufacturers and importers of non-medical face masks must apply for MS Sirim certification and labelling from Sirim QAS International Sdn Bhd.

The Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry, in a statement yesterday, said the ruling comes following yesterday’s gazetting of the Trade Descriptions (Certification and Marking) of Non-Medical Face Mask Order 2022 under the Trade Descriptions Act 2011.

According to the ministry, the move is to ensure that non-medical face masks produced locally, or imported, comply with the set safety standards.

“The MS Sirim label must be placed on the boxes or packages and must be easily visible to consumers.

"The MS Sirim label indicates that the non-medical face mask products have met the standards, are of quality and safe to use," the ministry said.

It said the gazetting was in embracing the Malaysian Family spirit to safeguard the well-being of the people and protect the interests of consumers.

In addition, the ministry hopes that with the compliance of standards by manufacturers and importers, the issue of dumping of poor quality non-medical face masks in the Malaysian market would be resolved.

Meanwhile, the Trade Descriptions (Certification and Marking) of Electronic Cigarettes (vaping devices) Order 2022 was also gazetted yesterday under the Trade Descriptions Act 2011 to ensure that the devices manufactured locally or imported, comply with the safety standards.

The order which will take effect on August 3, requires manufacturers and importers of electronic cigarette devices to apply for Sirim certification and labelling from Sirim QAS International Sdn Bhd as the certifying authority appointed by the ministry.

Companies failing to comply with the regulations can be fined up to RM200,000 while individuals will face a fine of up to RM100,000 or imprisonment of up to three years or both, if convicted.

- Bernama