PETALING JAYA: An international law expert is confident the pandemic prevention, preparedness and response (WHO CA+) and amendments to the International Health Regulation (IHR 2005) will not encroach upon national sovereignty.
Salawati Mat Basir of Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) said this is because the World Health Organization (WHO), which operates under the United Nations, lacks the jurisdiction to interfere in matters of sovereignty, including the prerogatives of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong.
“These regulations are designed to ensure that member states adhere to certain provisions to manage global health concerns, similar to what the World Trade Organization requires,” she told FMT.
On Oct 26, health minister Dr Zaliha Mustafa affirmed that the government would prioritise safeguarding national sovereignty during ongoing negotiations regarding WHO CA+ and IHR 2005.
Previously, some quarters, including the Malaysian Muslim Consumers’ Association (PPIM), had voiced concerns about potential threats to the nation’s sovereignty posed by the amendments and any proposed treaty.
Salawati said there was no need for the public to panic, and urged them to trust government groups to handle the matter.
“We have the Attorney-General’s Chambers, which does not sit around idly. They, together with the health ministry, will scrutinise each draft,” she said.
“We are not a country that blindly accepts international laws. If it conflicts with our Federal Constitution, we will either not implement it or make appropriate adjustments.”
She also criticised certain individuals for making comments about WHO CA+ and the amendments to IHR 2005 on social media, despite their lack of knowledge on the issues.
“Even as someone who studies international law, there is still much to be examined regarding these issues,” she said. - FMT
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