PETALING JAYA: The recent amendments to the Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases Act 1988 (Act 342) are aimed at preparing the government in handling future pandemics.
Former deputy health minister Datuk Dr Lee Boon Chye said the amendments formalise response measures that were enacted during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Under the updated law, quarantine centres can be established in various locations, such as hostels or hotels, as designated by the Health Ministry’s enforcement officers, rather than being limited to hospitals. It also incorporates digital tools, like the MySejahtera app, for use during outbreaks.
However, Dr Lee expressed concerns about the inclusion of the term “anyone who had reason to suspect” they were infected.
He said enforcing this clause could be challenging, as proving such suspicion in court may be unreasonable.
“The remaining amendments are primarily administrative, broadening the pool of enforcement officers and reviewing penalties for offences. Overall, the changes seem adequate to address future pandemics,” he stated.
Dr Lee emphasised the need for a comprehensive approach, involving federal and state governments, local authorities, NGOs and community volunteers.
“This whole-of-nation approach was lacking during the Covid-19 pandemic, where Health Ministry staff worked tirelessly in isolation, with some support from the police, military, Fire and Rescue Department and the People’s Volunteer Corp,” he said.
Prof Dr Sharifa Ezat Wan Puteh, a public health specialist at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia’s Faculty of Medicine, described the amendments as an expansion of the government’s authority under the parent Act.
She said the government is preparing for potential future outbreaks similar to Covid-19, bird flu or MERS.
In the event of a pandemic, Dr Sharifa said the government will have legal authority to impose fines on those who violate the law, enforce mandatory quarantines, and even mandate certain medications or vaccines.
However, she noted that individuals may resist such mandates if they oppose specific treatments.
The amendment Bill was passed in the Dewan Rakyat on Oct 14.
Deputy Health Minister Datuk Lukanisman Awang Sauni highlighted the importance of the Bill in ensuring the country’s readiness against the threat of infectious diseases.
Lukanisman said penalties are capped at RM5,000, with actual fines taking into account the severity of the offence to ensure it is fair and balanced.
