3.3.3. Medical Abortion Unavailable Legally

Malaysia has not legalised the use of medical abortions (i.e., non-surgical abortions, where oral medications are given to terminate pregnancy). While "abortion pills" are available for purchase online without a doctor's prescription, these pills are illegal and unregulated. Medical practitioners interviewed explained that medical abortions are a safe alternative and cheaper than surgical abortions. This medical doctor cautions patients against purchasing "abortion pills" from unknown sources and would make discreet referrals to a professional network of CSOs that facilitates safe abortions.

*"We have to advise them on medical or a surgical abortion. A surgical abortion will cost them almost RM 700 to RM 1000, which most of them don't have. So, instead of them harming themselves [unsafe abortion], we will actually tell them that 'The procedure is not available here [at this clinic]. Don't trust anybody, don't Google, don't find [abortion services] anywhere! Here are the contact details, where you can get pills online. But there's a possibility of not fully recovering. You will then need to see these certain doctors [who are] providing surgical [abortion]!' So, usually that is how we refer them to XXX." MD-12 CSO*
