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Nor Hazlin Talib

Ministry of Health Malaysia, Malaysia

Title: The era after medical cannabis legalization: Thailand’s experience

Abstract

As a middle-income country, Thailand has taken a bold step in legalizing cannabis, becoming a pioneer in the worldwide trend, and following the lead of Canada and Uruguay. With Thailand being the first country in Southeast Asia to legalize cannabis, its experience is drawing widespread attention, including from neighboring countries such as Malaysia that are exploring the possibility of using cannabis for medical purposes. While much can be learned from Thailand's experience, cannabis policymakers must keep in mind the delicate balance between the benefits of medical cannabis and its potential public health consequences and cost. The full impact of Thailand's legalization is still unfolding, and policymakers must remain vigilant in considering the various implications of this move.

Biography

Dr. Nor Hazlin has devoted 22 years to the Malaysian Ministry of Health (MOH), becoming a Family Medicine Specialist (FMS) 12 years ago. She currently leads Batu 9 Health Clinic in Selangor, a hub and pioneer of Malaysia's One Stop Centre for Addiction (OSCA) program. Dr Hazlin’s expertise lies in addiction medicine, achieved after completing subspecialty training in Addiction Medicine in Primary Care, making her the second FMS in Malaysia with this distinction. Part of her training was at the Centre of Addiction Studies at Chulalongkorn University and Fresh Start Clinic in Perth. Alongside her clinical role, she serves as the President of the Malaysian Family Medicine Specialists' Association (FMSA).