KUALA LUMPUR: Possible amendments to the Penal Code, Criminal Procedure Code and Evidence Act are being reviewed to address pressing issues in the criminal justice system, says Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said (pic).
The Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reforms) said this is being carried out through the Criminal Law Reform Committee (CLRC) established by the government.
The committee, she said, is a specific platform to evaluate and propose comprehensive reforms.
“At present, the CLRC is conducting a detailed review of short-term reform measures, or ‘quick wins’, including amendments to the Penal Code, the Criminal Procedure Code and the Evidence Act 1950,” she said in a written reply dated Wednesday (Feb 25).
Azalina added that the CLRC also practices an inclusive and strategic engagement based approach.
“The government is open to considering constructive views, recommendations and proposals from government agencies, professional bodies, civil society groups, academicians and other stakeholders.
“These views will be evaluated based on their legal compatibility, policy implications, implementation efficiency, its alignment with the Federal Constitution as well as human rights principles before being considered,” she said.
According to Azalina, the existing criminal law framework already provides comprehensive protection for the rakyat.
“However, efforts to refine and improve them are continuously being carried out by the related ministries to ensure the law remains relevant with current developments.
“The government too will continue enhancing the ability and preparedness of enforcement agencies including local authorities, to ensure law enforcement can be carried out efficiently, comprehensively and in line with good governance,” she said.
The minister was responding to Datuk Che Zulkifly Jusoh (PN-Besut) who asked about steps taken to address limitations to civil legislations, especially towards tackling victimless crimes.
