Malaysia King Urges Reform of Sharia Court System

King of Malaysia, the King Sultan Abdullah emphasized the need to enhance the administration of Sharia courts, including elevating the status of Sharia judges and lawyers, in order to expand the authority of the Islamic legal system in the country. He further stressed that Sharia courts must exercise their authority with wisdom and ensure fairness to all parties in their rulings—particularly in cases related to family matters and Sharia-based offenses.

Sultan Abdullah stated: “Judges, lawyers, and court staff share a collective responsibility to ensure the proper functioning of the courts.”

He added: “I hope that greater efforts will continue to be made to empower Sharia courts and other Islamic religious institutions.”

The ceremony was also attended by the Chief Justice of the Malaysian Sharia Judiciary, the Chief Sharia Judge of Pahang, and former Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob.

In his speech, the King described the Sharia court as an institution that administers justice based on Islamic law, and highlighted the effectiveness of ṣulḥ (amicable settlement) in resolving family disputes.

He noted: “Approximately 85 percent of reconciliation cases registered in courts nationwide between 2019 and 2022 were resolved through ṣulḥ without proceeding to full litigation.”

Referring to the Bera Sharia Court—completed in June 2016 at a cost of 6.5 million Malaysian ringgit—the King said the project reflects recognition of Islamic religious institutions and stands as clear evidence of the development of religious teachings in Pahang.

He added: “The opening of this court is highly significant, as the building symbolizes the elevated status of Sharia courts in this country. I am confident that the Bera court will play a major role in the implementation of Islamic law, particularly in this region.”

Sultan Abdullah also expressed his appreciation to federal and state authorities, as well as all parties involved in the establishment of the Bera Sharia Court.

Source: The Edge Malaysia