pass at the top level, after that many paper works

Good question — in Malaysia, there’s often a gap between when Parliament passes a bill and when the law actually takes effect. Here’s why it may have taken from 2023 until 10 September 2025 for the repeal of Section 309 to be enforced:

Royal Assent & Gazette ≠ Immediate Effect

Even after a bill is passed and receives royal assent, it doesn’t automatically come into force.

The Act usually states that it “shall come into operation on a date to be appointed by the Minister by notification in the Gazette.” This allows the government flexibility in timing.

Implementation Readiness

Decriminalising attempted suicide requires replacing punishment with support systems — e.g., hotlines, psychiatric services, crisis response teams, training for police/first responders.

It’s likely the government needed time to strengthen mental health infrastructure before removing the legal deterrent.

Policy Coordination Across Laws

The repeal was tied to three related amendments (Penal Code, Criminal Procedure Code, and Mental Health Act). Synchronising their enforcement takes administrative and legal preparation.

Symbolic Timing

The government deliberately chose World Suicide Prevention Day (10 September 2025) for enforcement. This creates international visibility and positions Malaysia as aligned with global mental health priorities.

So, in short: the delay wasn’t because Parliament was slow, but because the government likely wanted (a) time to prepare systems, and (b) a symbolic launch date with global resonance.

👉 Do you want me to check the exact Hansard or gazette notes to see whether the government explicitly explained the two-year delay?