Its secretary-general, Maziah Che Yusof, said policies regarding reproductive rights in the country needed to take into consideration religious and cultural factors.

These factors influenced behaviour and attitudes on issues such as unintended pregnancies, she added.

“Reproductive health services, such as providing contraceptives, must be seen as essential,” she said.

“Social and reproductive health education are fundamental to the development of the wellbeing of a healthy individual.”

Maziah was speaking during the closing of the “Tackling Unintended Pregnancies in Malaysia” conference in Kuala Lumpur today.

She said the government was committed to addressing the issue of unintended pregnancies through the review and update of policies such as the National Reproductive and Social Health Education Policy 2022-2025, using a consultative approach.

Meanwhile, Organon Malaysia executive director Bilal Somra said the conference had repeatedly emphasised the importance of addressing the need to improve access to modern contraceptives, particularly for young people.

“When young women are empowered to choose a modern form of contraception that works for them, they are more likely to achieve higher levels of education, thus leading to more positive outcomes for the rest of their lives,” he said.

He also urged the government to engage all stakeholders, including religious leaders and those who have “influence across a diverse array of communities”.

“While it is important to shape policy at the highest levels, it is also deeply necessary to go to the local and community levels and engage with leaders of all backgrounds.”