AS 2024 nears its end, we find ourselves at a moment of reflection. According to the official portal of the Parliament of Malaysia, 62 Bills have been passed as at Dec 19, 2024. While this figure may seem indicative of a robust legislative process, the passing of Bills, in and of itself, is not a full achievement. As the saying goes, “The proof of the pudding is in the eating”, and so it is with legislation.
True success lies not merely in the enactment of Bills but in the process of their formulation, the transparency of their tabling, and the rigour of their enforcement upon becoming law. The Malaysian Bar has taken particular note of these aspects, especially concerning the Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases (Amendment) Act 2024, passed by the Dewan Rakyat through a voice vote on Oct 14, 2024