KUALA LUMPUR: The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) is pleased that the Health Ministry has managed to obtain a refund of RM16,785,910 for 104 non-functional ventilator units.

PAC chairman Datuk Mas Ermieyati Samsudin said the ministry's action aligns with the recommendations made by the PAC over the management of the Covid-19 pandemic, namely expired vaccines, non-functional ventilators and excess personal protective equipment, which was presented in Parliament on Oct 30, 2023.

"The action by the ministry is consistent with the third recommendation of the report, which suggested that they promptly review the warranty status of all 136 ventilator units and take appropriate action against those responsible.

"The ministry proposes that the funds obtained be utilised and augmented by the Finance Ministry to ensure the availability of ventilator equipment in all government hospitals," she said in a statement today.

She also said that following the recommendations, the ministry had taken action to ensure the full utilisation of excess stock of boot covers and protective jumpsuits or coveralls.

PAC also urged the Health Ministry to ensure optimal stock levels of boot covers and protective jumpsuits or coveralls to prepare for future outbreaks or pandemics.

Before this, PAC conducted follow-up proceedings on the report on March 7, summoning witnesses including, Treasury deputy secretary-general (management) Ramzi Mansor; Health Ministry treasury deputy secretary-general (finance) Datuk Seri Norazman Ayob; and deputy health director-general (public health) Datuk Dr Norhayati Rusli. – Bernama

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/03/25/pac-gives-health-ministry-thumbs-up-for-securing-rm168mil-refund-for-non-functioning-ventilators