Alpro Foundation initiates safe medication disposal campaign in Malaysia
Improper disposal of pharmaceuticals and expired medicines, such as flushing them down the toilet or throwing them in the trash, contaminates water sources, according to the Alpro Foundation, the corporate social responsibility (CSR) arm of Alpro Pharmacy—Malaysia’s largest prescription pharmacy chain. The Foundation launched the Safe Medication Disposal Campaign in 2021 to address this issue. With 99% of Malaysia’s domestic water supply relying on surface water from rivers and streams, such actions pose a significant risk.
The group cites research by the World Economic Forum indicating that rising concentrations of pharmaceuticals in waterways endanger human health and hinder the United Nations’ goal of securing clean water and sanitation for all by 2030.
Alpro Foundation’s Safe Medication Disposal Campaign has focused on raising awareness and encouraging Malaysians to dispose of medications responsibly. Since its launch, the campaign has reached over 300,000 students through collaborations with more than 600 schools, educating them on the importance of proper disposal practices. The Foundation has also installed safe medication disposal bins at all 280 Alpro Pharmacy outlets nationwide, providing accessible options for the public.
The Foundation plans to expand its efforts in 2025 with a two-year research collaboration and community education programs in partnership with Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM). This initiative will disseminate safe medication disposal information through school talks and outreach events, targeting over 350,000 individuals, including students and corporate entities, as well as 250,000 families.
Additionally, the Foundation will construct a “Little Red House” outside its headquarters to serve as a landmark promoting safe medication disposal. This facility will allow the public to discard medications responsibly and access educational resources through a QR code.
Ostwin Paw, CEO of the Alpro Foundation, noted an increase in clinics returning unused medications and stressed the importance of education and advocacy in protecting Malaysia’s water sources.
Category: Pharmaceuticals
