PUTRAJAYA: The Pro Bono Commercial Mediation Initiative by the Asian International Arbitration Centre (AIAC) will be launched on May 18 to enhance access to a faster and more cost-effective justice system.
Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Law and Institutional Reform) Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said said the initiative is in line with the aspirations behind the establishment of the Madani Mediation Centre (PMM).
She said that under the initiative, AIAC would provide free mediation services to resolve 26 types of commercial disputes involving claims valued at RM250,000 and below.
Azalina said the scope of commercial disputes covered includes services, supplies, buying and selling, trade and marketing, real estate, companies and partnerships, as well as e-commerce and the digital economy.
"Starting May 18, 2026, the public may refer these commercial disputes directly to AIAC or online," she said in a statement Thursday (May 14).
Azalina said that so far, 170 local and international mediators have expressed their support for AIAC and their willingness to conduct mediation for commercial disputes free of charge.
"This approach is expected to bring significant benefits, particularly to small and medium enterprises, entrepreneurs and industry players, including those in the creative industry, as well as individuals dealing with small-value disputes," she said.
Azalina said the Cabinet on Wednesday (May 13) was informed of the national aspiration to establish the PMM to support the MADANI Government's agenda of expanding public access to the country's justice system through mediation mechanisms.
For that purpose, she said the PMM would play a key role in strengthening mediation services in Malaysia in a targeted and holistic manner, including by intensifying advocacy on mediation, strengthening mediator competence nationwide, and increasing public confidence in the mediation mechanism.
She said the move would also establish strategic cooperation with relevant agencies and institutions in an inclusive manner. - Bernama
