Development of Public Health Law in Malaysia

Abstract

Public health law’s main objective is to pursue the highest possible level of physical and mental health in the population, consistent with the values of social justice. Most public health laws have compounding of offences as their first line with subsequent offences being in the realm of the courts. Public health agencies are the prime mover of public health law after its initial passing, through its enforcement. Public health laws enforced are divided by function, i.e. communicable disease control and prevention, food safety and quality, tobacco products control, drinking water quality control and occupational safety and health. Public health is also ensured by regulation of medical practitioners, and health facilities and services. Local authorities enforce by-laws for health in addition to enforcement of public health laws by the inspectorate units in the district health office. Public health law is an excellent example of law and whole-of-government approach that is most effective when seen and realised by the community itself to be fair and necessary in preventing illnesses and saving lives.