PUTRAJAYA: The government will continue strengthening the Syariah judicial system while ensuring the rights of non-Muslims remain fully protected, says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
The Prime Minister said reforms to the Syariah legal system were aimed at improving governance, enhancing public confidence and ensuring justice could be delivered more effectively.
He also stressed that efforts to elevate the status and administration of Syariah courts should not be misconstrued as affecting the position or rights of non-Muslims, as the country's constitutional framework safeguards the rights of all citizens.
Meanwhile, a RM1.5mil allocation was announced to expand legal aid services for those unable to afford Syariah legal representation, particularly individuals from lower-income groups.
"We have good laws, good courts, good lawyers and good judges, but access remains an issue.
"Usually in the legal system, those who are well-off can afford the best lawyers, but the poorest sometimes have no access at all,” he said in his speech at the opening of the National Syariah Lawyers Convention 2026 here on Saturday (June 27).
Anwar said the allocation to the Syariah Lawyers Association of Malaysia would be channelled through the Syariah Legal Aid Centre (Bagus) to expand access to representation for those unable to afford Syariah legal services, particularly the poor and single mothers.
"Legal practitioners specialising in Syariah law play an important role in upholding justice and preserving public confidence in the country's legal institutions," he added.
As such, Anwar urged Syariah lawyers to uphold professionalism and integrity as they face the evolving demands of the legal profession.
He also called for closer cooperation among the government, legal fraternity and relevant institutions to ensure the Syariah justice system continued to progress in line with contemporary needs without compromising the principles of justice and constitutional guarantees.
The convention was attended by Syariah legal practitioners, academics and stakeholders to discuss developments and challenges facing the country's Syariah legal system.
