KUCHING: The implementation of SIRIM certification for face masks will greatly affect B40s who have been producing non-medical masks as a way to earn a living.
Economist Datuk Dr Madeline Berma said the cost to acquire the certification fee would have an impact on the supply of the face masks which go through a relatively sophisticated manufacturing process.
“With the implementation of SIRIM certification, the small-time producers will face difficulties to foot the bills.
“They may not be able to have the capital investments and access to inputs (where some parts have to be imported).
“That is why these small-scale producers would need subsidies and financial incentives to afford the fee of at least RM9,000 to get the certification,” she said when contacted by the New Sarawak Tribune on Monday (Apr 11).
Madeline stated that without any subsidy and financial incentive given, the small-scale producers will suffer.
“This is because only the medium and large-scale producers have the financial means to comply with the new SIRIM certification,” she said.
She noted that even though face masks are considered essential items, there is no quality control standard for the manufacturing, import and sales of face-marks in Malaysia.
“With no standard, no one will know whether the wearing of the mask can protect and prevent the spread of virus.
“Using poor quality face masks may not provide the level of protection indicated to safeguard the well-being of Malaysians.
“Hence, SIRIM certification is essential. This is to maintain the quality assurance of face masks,” she explained.
Having said that, she added that the certification is to address the abundance of poor quality, counterfeit and defective non-medical face masks in the market.
“In addition to that, the certification also prevents the dumping of poor quality non-medical face masks in Malaysia,” she said.
Recently, the Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry (KPDNHEP) announced that manufacturers and importers of non-medical face masks are required to apply for MS SIRIM certification and labelling.
It added that MS SIRIM labelling was to ensure Malaysian products were of quality standards and accepted worldwide.
The certification was also aimed at safeguarding the interests of the people as well as to overcome the dumping of poor quality non-medical face masks in the local market.
