KUALA LUMPUR: In line with the Madani government's aspiration to enhance and modernise Malaysia's criminal justice system, the Committee for the Review and Reform of the Penal Code, Criminal Procedure Code and Evidence Act has been established.
In a statement, the Legal Affairs Division of the Prime Minister's Department (BHEUU) said the committee would conduct a thorough review of the three laws to identify outdated or irrelevant provisions and propose necessary reforms.
The 25-member committee, comprising legal experts and practitioners, is chaired by Federal Court Judge Harmindar Singh Dhaliwal, with Court of Appeal Judge Ravinthran N. Paramaguru as his deputy.
According to the statement, the committee's formation aims to ensure that Malaysia's criminal justice system remains relevant and effective and is justice-oriented in addressing modern challenges, particularly those related to technological advancements and social changes.
"A strong criminal justice system that aligns with contemporary needs is crucial in upholding individual rights and strengthening public confidence in the nation's legal system," it said.
The BHEUU said the committee will review and recommend reforms to improve the efficiency of the criminal justice system, ensuring fair trials.
The study is expected to be conducted over 18 months in three phases.
"The findings and recommendations from this study will serve as a key foundation in strengthening the rule of law, enhancing enforcement efficiency and protecting individual rights within Malaysia's criminal justice system.
"The Madani government believes that through holistic and comprehensive reforms, the nation's criminal justice system will become more responsive, fair and effective in meeting the evolving needs of society," the statement read.
Additionally, an Ad Hoc Committee has been formed, comprising experts in law, enforcement, technology and civil society, to provide technical and strategic input from time to time, ensuring that all proposals are comprehensive and aligned with current needs.
The BHEUU said that the main committee chairman and its members, as well as the Ad Hoc Committee members, were appointed by the Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Law and Institutional Reform) Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said. - Bernama
