MELAKA: Efforts to expand access to legal aid and improve legal literacy are set to be strengthened with the signing of a memorandum of understanding between Multimedia University (MMU) and the Legal Affairs Division of the Prime Minister’s Department.
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform) Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said said the collaboration aims to reinforce legal and institutional reforms.
This would be done through the sharing of expertise, research, training and best practices, while also enhancing the competency of legal practitioners and relevant stakeholders.
She said the launch of the MMU Legal Aid Clinic is highly significant in ensuring access to justice for all segments of society.
“Access to justice is the cornerstone of any society founded on the rule of law.
“However, there are still various barriers, whether in terms of cost, awareness or accessibility,” she said, Bernama reported.
Azalina added that, in line with the Madani government’s commitment, various initiatives have been strengthened to bridge gaps in access to justice.
This includes the Justice on Wheels programme run by the Legal Aid Department, which delivers legal services directly to communities, particularly in rural and remote areas.
She also highlighted the Legal Aid and Public Defender Act 2026 as a major reform initiative aimed at coordinating legal aid mechanisms, widening access to assistance and introducing a Public Defender system for those in need.
“This is not merely a policy measure, but a reflection of the clear principle that justice must not only exist, but must also be accessible and felt by all levels of society,” she said.
Azalina also stressed the importance of preparing society for the rapid advancement of Artificial Intelligence (AI), which is increasingly influencing everyday life, including the legal and employment sectors.
