AMENDMENTS TO ACTS 505, 585 TO STRENGTHEN SYARIAH COURTS IN FEDERAL TERRITORIES

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 4 (Bernama) -- The Syariah Court Civil Procedure (Federal Territories) (Amendment) Bill 2024 and the Administration of Islamic Law (Federal Territories) (Amendment) Bill 2024, scheduled for a second reading tomorrow (Dec 5), aim to enhance the management and administration of Syariah courts in the Federal Territories.

In a statement, Malaysian Syariah Lawyers Association (PGSM) president Musa Awang said the proposed amendments in these bills would provide significant benefits and streamline processes for the Muslim community in Syariah courts, especially in the Federal Territories.

“As the main body representing Syariah lawyers in this country and serving as a bridge between Syariah practitioners and the community, PGSM fully supports both bills and hopes they will gain the approval of all members of the Dewan Rakyat and Dewan Negara,” Musa said.

Among the amendments is the proposed introduction of Section 40A, which would enable Syariah Court Judges or Registrars to conduct civil case proceedings through remote communication technology.

“Another amendment, the proposed Section 57B in the Administration of Islamic Law Bill, will empower the Chief Syariah Judge to issue practice directions necessary for implementing provisions under Act 505 or any other written laws related to Syariah Court Civil Procedure,” he added.

Musa further said that the proposed amendment to Section 3 of the Syariah Court Civil Procedure Act (Act 585) would introduce and formalise the definition of "remote communication technology" for its application.

Meanwhile, changes to Section 100 of the Act would allow the acceptance of evidence via remote communication technology, reflecting advancements in technology.

-- BERNAMA