EXPLORING THE LAW ON THE MOVEMENT CONTROL ORDER IN MALAYSIA TO FIGHT THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC

Abstract

This paper explores the laws enforced for the Movement Control Order (MCO) in Malaysia, which are the Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases Act 1988 [Act 342] and its subsidiary legislations, to fight the COVID-19 pandemic. The MCO was first enforced in Malaysia on March 18, 2020. This paper aims to explore and inform the non-legal person on the legal mechanisms in Malaysia during COVID-19. This paper applied the qualitative research approach, where the methodology used was a socio-legal analysis with reference to specific legal texts and statutes of Malaysia. Legal analysis was conducted on the main law, which Act 342, and its subsidiary legislations. Information by way of secondary data was also obtained from the official website of the Ministry of Health of Malaysia and newspaper articles. It was observed and concluded that the role of law is essential in times of crisis. The MCO in Malaysia has a significant role as a preventive measure in reducing the spread of COVID-19 and to break the chain of virus infection. Non-compliance is an offence, punishable by law and upon conviction, offenders are fined or imprisoned, or both.