Abortion in Malaysia

Abortion in Malaysia is generally legal to save the life of the mother or in cases where their physical or mental health is at risk, for the first 120 days (approximately 4 months) of gestation, as regulated under Sections 312–316 of the Penal Code. However, specific legislation varies by state. Access to abortion in Malaysia has been hampered by religious, cultural and social stigmas against abortion, poor awareness of abortion legislation among health professionals and the high cost of abortion services in the private health sector. As a result, risky unsafe abortions are prevalent in Malaysia.

As a Muslim country, Malaysia also has a dual legal system with Muslims being subject to Sharia law. In 2002, the National Fatwa Council issued a fatwa permitting abortion up to 120 days of gestation in cases when the mother's life is in danger or fetal impairment. Abortion on the grounds of rape, and incest are still illegal.

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