When was the Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases Act gazetted?

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The Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases Act Was Gazetted in 1988

The Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases Act 1988 was gazetted in 1988. This legislation, also known as Act 342, established the framework for managing infectious diseases in Malaysia. The maximum penalty for compoundable offences under this Act was initially set at RM1,000.
Background of the Act

Act 342 was enacted in 1988, a period predating the current public health challenges. The original penalties were determined at that time, reflecting the societal and economic conditions of the late 1980s. The Ministry of Health has proposed increasing the maximum fine from the current RM1,000 to RM10,000.
Need for Updated Penalties

The current penalties under the Act are considered insufficient as a deterrent by law enforcement officials. Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Abdul Hamid Bador indicated that the thousands of compound notices issued for breaches of Covid-19 regulations, primarily for failure to maintain physical distancing, have not effectively curbed non-compliance. This observation highlights a discrepancy between the existing legal framework and the evolving nature of public health threats.
Ongoing Drafting of Amendments

The Attorney General's Chambers (AGC) is currently in the process of drafting proposals for higher penalties for compoundable offences under the Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases Act 1988. These proposed amendments, which would seek higher fines and penalties in court for those found guilty, have been submitted to the AGC by the Ministry of Health. If the proposals are passed, they would likely be announced by the Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department responsible for law affairs, as the matter falls under the purview of the Emergency Ordinance.

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When was the Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases Act gazetted?

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