Report: Sirim cert requirement for masks postponed

 

The enforcement of new labelling requirements for non-medical masks has been postponed from July 4 this year to Jan 1 next year, according to a report.

The announcement was made following a public engagement session between Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister Alexander Nanta Linggi and industry stakeholders in Putrajaya today.

Sinar Harian quoted the minister saying his ministry also received a lot of feedback after the Trade Descriptions (Certification and Marking) of Non-Medical Face Mask Order 2022 was gazetted, including from anxious customers fearing it could lead to increased prices.

“We had discussions this evening to give a chance for industry and consumers to make adjustments,” he was quoted as saying.

“Consumers think it will lead to an increase in face mask prices even though Sirim QAS International Sdn Bhd has assured it would impose low charges on importers and manufacturers,” he said.

On a related matter, he said fabric face masks also fall under the new law and must obtain Sirim approval.

It was reported that the government has gazetted the new order and will require mask manufacturers and importers to apply for MS Sirim certification and labelling beginning July 4.

This is to ensure masks sold in Malaysia conform to existing safety standards.

Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister Alexander Nanta Linggi

Health authorities around the world have previously warned of substandard or fraudulent surgical masks and respirators being sold on the market amid the Covid-19 pandemic.

The South Korean embassy in Kuala Lumpur has also warned of counterfeit KF94 respirators as demand for improved but affordable masks increased last year.

“There is a high possibility that counterfeit KF face masks provide an inadequate level of protection and are likely to be poor quality products,” it said. The KF94 standard is regulated by South Korea’s Food and Drug Safety Ministry.

Companies failing to comply with the new regulation 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.

However, the new rule has sparked concern it would raise mask prices and allegations of rent-seeking.

Misinformation was also circulated online claiming people wearing non-Sirim certified masks would also be slapped with a RM100,000 fine, even though the rule is only being imposed on mask suppliers and not consumers. - Mkini