Goobat.care becomes first Malaysian pharmacy to accept Bitcoin
KUALA LUMPUR: Pharmatech firm Goobat Sdn Bhd (Goobat) has become Malaysia’s first online pharmacy to accept Bitcoin on its local e-commerce store Goobat. care.
“There is a growing number of cryptocurrency enthusiasts in Malaysia,” Goobat co-founder Asher Looi said.
“In fact, we have listened and learnt that there is an increasing demand from consumers calling for the acceptance of Bitcoin and cryptocurrencies as a payment option and so, we believe this is a step in the right direction.”
Bitcoin has been in existence since 2009. Its growth within the financial market since inception has earned its spot as a valid new store of value, thus presenting itself as a new payment form in a growing market.
“Goobat believes that cryptocurrencies are the future of finance. We have watched how it has gradually gained global acceptance and confidence.
“Numerous central banks have been reported to begin exploring and adopting these cryptocurrencies.
“As part of the retail industry, we feel it is important and timely to educate the public that Bitcoin transactions are safe, and that users will still have full control of their money in their wallets.”
Bitcoin transactions on Goobat. Care webstore will go through the Bitpay gateway - US-based crypto clearing gateway that is the world’s largest provider of blockchain payment services.
Looi explained that the push factor in establishing the online store stemmed from the realisation that many pharmacies in suburban areas did not carry a full range of products.
Further, due to the lack of economy of scale, these outlets would tend to retail products at steeper prices.
“When we set up Goobat.Care, we wanted to ensure that we could help suburban consumers find what they need.
“So now we have more than 3,000 products online to offer, at affordable prices.”
Not only does this give people the option to shop at their convenience, but also with ease knowing there is a dedicated team of 15 people working at any point in time on Goobat.Care.
The team comprises those in the technological unit, in operations and three pharmacists whose services are available via WhatsApp.
Once a transaction is completed on Goobat.Care, Klang Valley customers can choose to receive their products by Goobat.Care’s Three-Hour Express Delivery, or opt for the Standard Delivery option. The latter is available to customers nationwide.
Goobat assures that it will provide special handling for some products that may be temperature sensitive, or can be affected by changes in humidity like probiotics and other medicines.