Deeper conversation on abortion in Malaysia this Tuesday on Relatable

SHAH ALAM - The legality of abortion has been a never-ending debate especially among the pro-life and pro-choice activists.

Following the United States Supreme Court’s decision to officially reverse the Roe vs Wade law last month - in which it declares a null to the constitutional right to abortion there, the topic of abortion has raised questions and concerns among the Malaysian people.

This has sparked a worldwide conversation on human rights, women's rights as well as the topic of abortion.

The general rule in Malaysia under Section 312 of the Penal Code states that abortion is illegal and a woman could be imprisoned for doing so.

There is an exception however, where abortion is only allowed in Malaysia if it is done to save the pregnant woman's life or to protect the mental and physical state of the woman.

According to AskLegal, the latter point includes pregnant woman undergoing physical or mental trauma such as rape victims, which can potentially cause her death.

It is also important to note that abortions can only be carried out by medical practitioners or doctors with a license, qualified and duly registered under the Medical Act 1971 with qualifications recognised by the Malaysian Medical Council.

Despite the clear laws outlined by the country, there are still those questioning the process and whether it is morally right to allow it to happen.

Between 2017 and 2022, a total of 41,083 unwanted teen pregnancies were recorded by the Health Ministry of which 35 per cent, or 14,561 cases, were out of wedlock.

These cases does not necessarily equate to consensual sex but also be due to rape, abuse and incest.

With an open mind and aim to understand motives behind the "need" for abortions, Sinar Daily explores the topic deeper this Tuesday, July 19 at 11am.

The discussion will be moderated by Izza Izelan and participated by obstetrician and gynaecologist and educator Datuk Dr Harlina Halizah Siraj, For Youth Initiative Kuala Lumpur Reproductive Rights Activist Fara Rom and Ectopic Pregnancy Survivor Maisara Mohd Nasir.

The discussion will look at the rules surrounding abortion, the stigma that comes with and the emotional toll it takes on those who goes through a termination of pregnancy.

Not only that, Relatable will also address the misconceptions and stigma of ectopic pregnancies. Are medical treatments on ectopic pregnancies considered abortion as purported by Western activists?

What is the long-term and short-term impact on women or girls following unwanted pregnancies? What more if she is a victim of rape or incest? How should Malaysians view abortions and those who undertake the process?

Stream Relatable: Abortion in Malaysia this Tuesday, 11am on www.sinardaily.my and Sinar Daily's Facebook page.