By: Media and Corporate Communication Unit (UMKK)

KUALA LUMPUR, July 18, 2024 – The Dewan Rakyat on Thursday passed the Drug Dependants (Treatment and Rehabilitation) Act 1983 (Amendment) 2024 Bill, which was last amended 20 years ago.

The Bill was passed by a majority vote, with nearly 40 Members of Parliament involved in the debate sessions when it was presented for the second and third readings starting July 9.

Minister of Home Affairs, YB Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail, stated that the approval of the Bill would enhance the role of NADA rehabilitation officers without neglecting the responsibilities of medical officers.

YB Datuk Seri Saifuddin said the Bill would also expand access to treatment and rehabilitation, particularly voluntarily, among drug addicts or abusers.

He added that with the approval of the Bill, the focus would now shift to decriminalization, compared to the previous emphasis on punishing drug offenders.

YB Datuk Seri Saifuddin also informed that his ministry had conducted 13 engagement sessions this year, 22 in 2023, 11 in 2022, seven in 2021, and four sessions in 2020.

On July 9, the Treatment and Rehabilitation Bill (Amendment) 2024, which was presented for the second reading, was postponed and will be referred to the Special Health Select Committee and Special Security Select Committee for further consideration.

The postponement of the Bill was made based on Standing Order 62 of the Dewan Rakyat, after considering the views of the Members of Parliament, to ensure the Bill becomes the best possible act when passed.