KUALA LUMPUR. Malaysia, July 22, 2025 — In a significant step toward strengthening whistleblower protections, the Dewan Rakyat passed amendments to the Whistleblower Protection Act 2010 (WPA) tonight, following a robust debate in Parliament. The bill, if approved by the Dewan Negara and completed through the legislative process, will extend protections to whistleblowers, even for disclosures prohibited by existing laws.
The WPA, enacted in 2010, was designed to safeguard whistleblowers but has faced criticism for its limitations. A key flaw, found in the proviso of Section 6(1), excludes protections for disclosures banned by written laws, such as the Official Secrets Act 1972 (OSA) or Section 203A of the Penal Code, which criminalizes the disclosure of information obtained during official duties.
This restriction has left whistleblowers vulnerable. For instance, an individual exposing misconduct in a ministry involving OSA-classified information would not receive WPA protection, even if the disclosure was made to an enforcement agency. The newly passed amendment removes the Section 6(1) proviso, ensuring whistleblowers are protected regardless of whether the disclosed information is classified under laws like the OSA.
“This is a major amendment that will significantly enhance the effectiveness of the Act,” said Syahredzan Johan, MP for Bangi, who participated in the parliamentary debate. “I’ve been advocating for reforms to the WPA for over a decade. To close these loopholes and contribute to this change is an honor.”
The amendment is seen as a milestone in bolstering transparency and accountability. Johan praised Minister YB Dato Sri Azalina, Deputy Minister YB Sdr M. Kulasegaran, and the team at the Legal Affairs and Institutional Reform Division (JPM) for their efforts in tabling the bill.
“This reform reflects the Madani government’s commitment to meaningful policy changes,” Johan added. “It’s a reminder of why I entered politics—to drive positive change and improve lives.”
The bill now awaits deliberation in the Dewan Negara as the government continues its push for institutional reforms.