LETTER | In reference to claims made by PAS MP for Kuala Nerus Khairuddin Aman Razali regarding Western films leading to illegitimate babies, Dr John Teo, consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist and a member of the FRHAM medical committee, wishes to point out that there is no evidence that links such films that promote hedonistic lifestyles or otherwise to babies born out of wedlock as claimed.

On the contrary, there is clear evidence that the lack of comprehensive sex education and the lack of access to contraceptives among those who are already sexually active are important causative factors in the high rate of unintended pregnancies, especially among the young.

There is also very clear evidence that restrictive laws with regards to sexual and reproductive health care are linked to the high rate of unintended pregnancies and abortions.

Lawmakers are an integral part of the ecosystem of reproductive health care provision, and the manner in which laws are enacted will impact significantly on access and care.

It is with this in mind that it is even more critical for lawmakers to fully comprehend the dynamics of reproductive health care in depth and to debate and enact laws that are based on evidence and clearly shown to provide better care for our girls and women.

I fervently appealed that our lawmakers engage with stakeholders, increase their access to evidence-based global research and collaborate with advocates and NGOs in pushing and enacting laws that provide better care rather than subscribe to unsubstantiated claims that may result in real harm.

The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of Malaysiakini.