KUALA LUMPUR, July 9 — The Drug Dependents (Treatment and Rehabilitation)(Amendment) Bill 2024, which was tabled for second reading, has been deferred.
It will be referred to two parliamentary special select committees (PSSCs) for further engagement.
Home Affairs Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said the decision to defer the bill, which has been in discussion since last week, was made in accordance with Standing Order 62 after careful consideration of views from MPs, in addition to ensuring the bill is refined and meets the highest legislative standards upon approval.
“During this period, we will invite all stakeholders, including MPs, legal experts, and non-governmental organisations, to examine and fine-tune the bill before reaching a decision in Parliament.
“Initially, I envisioned a final vote at the end of this process, but upon reflection, regardless of how thorough we perceive our efforts to be, MPs had provided valuable criticism, perspectives and suggestions, so I feel the ministry must give it weight,” he said when proposing the bill to be referred to the PSSC on Health and PSSC on Security today.
Saifuddin earlier said the amendment is to encourage more people involved in drug abuse to voluntarily seek treatment.
“I visited the Bukit Mertajam Puspen (Narcotics Addiction Rehabilitation Centre), and was pleasantly surprised that within a few months of treatment, some people had memorised several surah, including Surah Al-Waqiah and Surah As-Sajdah. These people willingly come to our facility for treatment.
“Amending this act means we facilitate their journey in rehabilitation. We provide modules, officers and facilities that adhere to international standards and boast a high success rate,” he added.
On July 2, the Drug Dependents (Treatment and Rehabilitation)(Amendment) Bill 2024 was tabled for first reading in the Dewan Rakyat.
The bill proposes expanding the scope of the Drug Dependents (Treatment and Rehabilitation) Act 1983 to include substance addicts and abusers, while broadening the scope of their treatment and rehabilitation.
In the July 4 debate, several MPs suggested referring the bill to a PSSC for further scrutiny. This includes engaging more with stakeholders such as private treatment centres to identify optimal strategies for drug dependents.
— Bernama
