Is cannabis legal in Malaysia for recreational use?

No. Cannabis is prohibited under the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952. Possession, cultivation, trafficking, and import/export are criminal offenses.

Can I use CBD products in Malaysia?

Do not assume CBD is allowed. Any product would have to comply with Malaysian law and approvals; verify status with MOH Pharmacy and do not import without authorization.

Can I travel through Malaysia with cannabis purchased legally elsewhere?

No. Do not carry cannabis through Malaysian borders or airports regardless of origin.

Malaysia: Cannabis Laws (Strict Prohibitions)

Last updated: October 14, 2025

Legal notice: This page is informational only and not legal advice. Penalties in Malaysia can be severe. Always verify on official government websites linked below and follow the strictest applicable rule. See our Legal Disclaimer & No-Warranty.

Snapshot

Status: Cannabis is treated as a dangerous drug—recreational use is illegal. Possession, cultivation, trafficking, import/export are criminal offenses.
Medical/CBD: Any therapeutic products would need to comply with Malaysian law (licensing, scheduling). There is no broad consumer CBD market recognized in law. Confirm status on official portals before any action.

Core Statutes & Agencies

Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (Act 234) – framework for cannabis prohibitions (see official texts below).
Poisons Act 1952 (Act 366) – controls handling of poisons and certain substances.
Competent authorities include Ministry of Health (MOH) and National Anti-Drugs Agency (AADK).

Key Risks (Plain Language)

Possession & trafficking offenses carry harsh penalties under the DDA 1952.
Import/export and planting/cultivation prohibitions apply nationally.
Don’t transit with cannabis through Malaysian borders or airports.

Travel & Practical Notes

Do not transport cannabis into/out of Malaysia—even with a prescription from another country.
Do not rely on regional norms (e.g., Thailand); Malaysia enforces its own laws.
If unsure, do not proceed and consult a qualified local attorney.

Keep Learning

See global context: Cannabis Laws by Country & Region
Safety: Responsible Use Guide
Trust process: Information You Can Trust, Editorial Standards, How We Fact-Check, Research Updates

Official Government Sources (Verify Here)

MOH Pharmacy – Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 & regs (landing): pharmacy.moh.gov.my › Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 and Regulations.
DDA 1952 (official PDF): pharmacy.moh.gov.my/sites/default/files/document-upload/dangerous-drugs-act-1952.pdf.
DDA 1952 (Act 234, consolidated PDF): pharmacy.moh.gov.my/sites/default/files/document-upload/dangerous-drugs-act-1952-act-234_4.pdf.
Poisons Act 1952 (landing + PDF): pharmacy.moh.gov.my/en/documents/poisons-act-1952-and-regulations.html.
AADK – Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (overview): aadk.gov.my/en/act-234-dangerous-drugs-act-1952/.

Cannabis Laws in Malaysia: What’s Legal, What’s Not