Putrajaya, December 2025. Malaysia has notified proposed amendments to the Food Act 1983 [Act 281] aimed at strengthening oversight of food-contact materials, expanding regulatory powers, enhancing enforcement, and increasing penalty ceilings. The initiative is led by the Food Safety and Quality Programme under Ministry of Health Malaysia. Once finalized, the law is slated to take effect six months after publication.

What the Proposal Covers

• Stronger control of food-contact materials. The draft foregrounds safety requirements for packaging and other food-contact articles used across all food categories and materials.

• Broader ministerial and director-general powers. Amendments would expand the authorities of the Minister and the Director General to administer, update, and enforce controls.

• Updated interpretations. Definitions in the Act would be revised to reflect current practice and international references.

• Stronger enforcement. Provisions aim to bolster inspection powers and compliance mechanisms available to authorities.

• Higher penalties. The proposal contemplates increased penalty rates for violations to reinforce deterrence.

Alignment With International Standards

The measure references relevant international guidance (including Codex frameworks) and states that it is intended to conform with international standards for import control systems and food-contact safety.

Implementation and Consultation

Adoption and publication dates are to be determined. After issuance, the amendments would enter into force six months after publication. Stakeholders may submit comments within 60 days of circulation; for this notification the final date for comments is 17 February 2026. The national enquiry point is the Food Safety and Quality Programme of Ministry of Health Malaysia.

Outlook for Industry

The reforms signal a more robust, risk-based approach to packaging and food-contact compliance, coupled with enhanced regulatory tools and higher sanctions. Food manufacturers, importers, and packaging suppliers should review material specifications, supplier documentation, and conformity evidence against the anticipated requirements and prepare for tighter enforcement once the amendments are finalized.