No. Absinthe containing thujone exceeding 10 ppm is banned under Malaysia’s Poisons Act 1952 and Excise Act 1976, enforced by the National Poisons Centre and Royal Malaysian Customs. Import permits from the Ministry of Health are required for compliant varieties, with penalties including fines up to RM20,000 or imprisonment.
Key Regulations for Absinthe in Malaysia
- Thujone Limit: Absinthe with thujone concentrations above 10 ppm is classified as a poison under the Poisons Act 1952, prohibiting sale and distribution.
- Import Controls: The Ministry of Health mandates import permits for absinthe shipments, with Royal Malaysian Customs screening for compliance during clearance.
- Licensing Requirements: Businesses must obtain a liquor license from the Excise Department (under the Royal Malaysian Customs) to legally handle absinthe, even if thujone-compliant.
Recent 2026 amendments to the Excise Act tighten enforcement on unlicensed absinthe imports, introducing mandatory laboratory testing for thujone levels at designated ports. Non-compliant products face immediate seizure and destruction. Distributors must verify supplier certifications to avoid liability under Section 30 of the Poisons Act.