Non-medical face masks to require Sirim certification from July 1 onwards

Enforcement of the Trade Descriptions (Certification and Marking) of Non-Medical Face Mask Order 2022 which requires manufacturers and importers of non-medical face masks to apply for MS Sirim certification and labelling will take effect on July 1.

The domestic trade and cost of living ministry, in a statement today, said this would enable more manufacturers and traders to obtain the certificate from Sirim QAS International Sdn Bhd.

Effective July 1, it said it would ban the import of non-medical face masks without MS Sirim certification and labelling.

"The government is of the view that the period until the end of June 2023 is sufficient for manufacturers and distributors to obtain the standard certification for non-medical face masks sold in the country," it said.

The ministry also advised parties intending to distribute, produce or sell non-medical face masks in the country to ensure that the product has obtained the relevant certification standard.
 
"(The MS Sirim label) must be on the box or packaging of the non-medical face masks," it said.

The ministry previously set July 4, 2022, for the enforcement of the Trade Descriptions (Certification and Marking of Non-Medical Face Mask) Order 2022.

This was postponed to Jan 1, 2023, to give leeway for adjustments by the public and industry.