Govt Urged To Introduce Good Samaritan Act To Protect Bystanders - Lee

KUALA LUMPUR, July 13 (Bernama) -- The government has been urged to introduce a Good Samaritan Act in the upcoming Parliament sitting to provide legal protection for bystanders and first responders who voluntarily assist individuals in emergencies.

Alliance for a Safe Community chairman Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye said similar laws are already in place in countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia and the United Kingdom, and are needed in Malaysia to ensure that well-intentioned individuals are not deterred from helping others due to fear of legal repercussions.

“The act is necessary because it encourages public assistance in emergencies. Many people hesitate to help accident victims or individuals experiencing medical distress due to concerns about potential legal liability.

“Thus, a Good Samaritan Act would offer protection against civil or criminal liability for those who render aid in good faith, encouraging a more compassionate and proactive society,” he said in a statement today.

Lee said immediate assistance in cases such as road accidents, heart attacks, drowning incidents or sudden collapse could mean the difference between life and death, and legal protection would encourage bystanders trained in basic first aid or CPR to act without hesitation.

He added that such a law would help address the ‘bystander effect’, where individuals are more likely to take action when they feel safe from negative consequences.

“It would also reinforce the idea that the government values and protects those who step forward to assist others,” he said.

Lee said a clear legal framework would also benefit medical professionals, off-duty healthcare workers and volunteers who provide emergency assistance outside their formal duties.

It is also aligned with the values of Malaysian society, promoting kindness, mutual help and fostering a stronger sense of community responsibility.

Lee stressed that protection should apply only to those acting in good faith and not extend to individuals who act with gross negligence or intent to harm.

“The law should cover a wide range of emergencies, including medical distress, accidents and natural disasters. There should be public awareness campaigns to educate citizens on their rights and responsibilities under the law,” he said.

Lee also called for a consultative approach involving stakeholders such as the Health Ministry, Attorney General’s Chambers, medical and first aid organisations, emergency responders, human rights and legal experts and community groups to ensure a comprehensive and balanced law.

“The introduction of a Good Samaritan Act is not just about legal protection, it is about cultivating a culture of care, responsibility and civic duty.

“We must not allow hesitation and fear to cost lives. The time to act is now,” he said.

-- BERNAMA