Legal medical marijuana on horizon for Malaysia?

KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysia could soon legalise the use of cannabis for medical and research purposes. 

This is according to Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin, who said the country is considering allowing its usage beginning next year, once the government finalises its framework on the registration of certain cannabidiol (CBD) products. 

He acknowledged having received reports and evidence of the benefits of CBD, which is an active chemical in the cannabis plant. 

“We are very confident (it can be passed by next year), based on evidence of the positive benefits of CBD, but I haven’t even informed the prime minister (on the matter). 

“We will try to establish the framework and will invite the public to register (to take part in the usage of medical marijuana). 

“Education campaigns on the plant in the industry, as well as the benefits of CBD, will also be conducted.”

He said this in his speech at the launch of a report on Malaysians' view on drugs. 

Several lawmakers have been pushing for the legalisation of medical marijuana in the country in recent years, with Muar MP Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman among the most vocal on the issue. 

The Muda president had, on several occasions, urged the government to consider legalising the production and sale of hemp and marijuana for medical use and not to be left behind by other countries. 

Presently, more than 40 countries globally have legalised medical marijuana. 

Last October, MPs from across the divide had set up a bipartisan parliamentary caucus led by Syed Saddiq to deliberate on the use of ketum and medical cannabis as among recognised forms of medicine in Malaysia. 

The caucus met with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob for the first time in April this year to discuss policy issues related to the hemp industry, signalling a major development in the push for its legalisation. 

Other members of the caucus are Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said (Pengerang-Umno), Khalid Samad (Shah Alam-Amanah), Datuk Dr Xavier Jayakumar (Kuala Langat-Independent), Datuk Darell Leiking (Penampang-Warisan), Dr Kelvin Yii (Bandar Kuching-DAP), Dr Azman Ismail (Kuala Kedah-PKR), Lukanisman Awang Sauni (Sibuti-GPS) and Ahmad Fadhli Shaari (Pasir Mas-PAS). – The Vibes, July 14, 2022