Overview of the Move to Ban Asbestos in Malaysia Dr. T. Jayabalan MBBS, MSc Member, Academy of Occupational & Environmental Medicine Honorary Consultant, National Poison Centre, Universiti Sains Malaysia (WHO Collaborating Centre) Member, Health Promotion Board, Malaysia Medical Advisor Consumers’ Association of Penang, Malaysia

Proposed Ban: Banning of asbestos (in all its forms)  Involves the Department of Occupational Safety & Health (DOSH).  Consultative process-two meetings thus far- industry, academy, t and other government departments.  Slow but consistent.  Three-pronged approach.  Expected total ban in 2015.

The Three-Pronged Approach 1. Immediate ban of asbestos use in the workplace and ban of raw materials. 2. Import prohibition of raw asbestos. 3. Ban on asbestos material in semi and finished products.

Progress so far Since it’s an order - requires only the approval of Director of DOSH. 2. The first draft submitted has been revised and re-submitted for legal vetting. 3. After the legal vetting, which would be completed shortly, the Director will sign it as an order for enforcement.

Problems thus far…. 1. APCO representing asbestos association presented some objections in its public meeting, to DOSH and to the Minister. 2. Their concerns: Economic losses Substitute - expensive Substitute - dangerous Threats of legal action

Industry  Industry nearly unanimous in support of ban.  Few objections to ban  Already researching into the use of substitutes.

Worker Representatives  One of the affiliate unions of MTUC (as in the past) objected to the ban on grounds of loss of jobs.  But by 2010, MTUC’s position took a radical change supporting the ban.

What is the status? Final draft of a prohibitory order is now with the legal department for clearance. Once the draft is passed, then it goes to the Cabinet for endorsement. The order should be enforced.