Why Section 39C is failing Malaysia’s drug policy — Simraatraj Kaur Dhillon (opens original article in a new tab)

Malaysia's Section 39C of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 is criticized for failing to reduce drug use, instead entrenching poverty and criminalising drug dependence, with disproportionate impacts on vulnerable populations.

• Section 39C of Malaysia's Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 imposes mandatory prison sentences for repeat drug use, disproportionately affecting low-income and marginalised individuals.
• Research shows Section 39C entrenches poverty, criminalises drug dependence, and fails to address underlying social and economic issues contributing to drug use.
• The law does not improve recovery outcomes, with former prisoners often returning to drug use due to lack of support and reintegration challenges.