PM: Move to enhance syariah legal system will not affect rights of non-Muslims
PUTRAJAYA: The syariah judicial system will continue to be strengthened, while ensuring the rights of non-Muslims remain fully protected, says Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
He said ongoing efforts to enhance the syariah legal system were aimed at improving governance, boosting public confidence and ensuring justice is delivered more effectively.
Giving assurance that the country’s constitutional framework safeguards the rights of all citizens, Anwar said efforts to elevate the status and administration of syariah courts should not be misunderstood as affecting the position or rights of non-Muslims.
“We must make it clear that the objective is to uphold justice. It will in no way deny or compromise the rights of non-Muslims in matters relating to their religion,” he said.
To further enhance the syariah judicial system, Anwar proposed a dedicated engagement session involving the Attorney General, Chief Justice, heads of syariah courts and representatives from the syariah legal profession.
The session would allow the government to consider proposals from legal practitioners aimed at strengthening the capability and standing of the syariah judiciary, he said.
“I will give priority to views that are deemed necessary and important,” he said.
The Prime Minister also announced a RM1.5mil allocation to expand legal aid services for those unable to afford syariah legal representation, particularly individuals from lower-income groups.
He said access to justice remained a key concern despite the existence of a robust legal framework and capable judges and lawyers, noting that financial disparity often determined the quality of legal representation in court.
“We have capable lawyers and judges, but access to legal assistance, particularly for the poor, can at times remain uncertain.
“This fund is intended to help those in need, including individuals who cannot afford legal representation and single mothers requiring legal assistance,” he said.
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 continues to progress in line with current needs without compromising the principles of justice and constitutional guarantees.
“Legal practitioners specialising in syariah law play an important role in upholding justice and preserving public confidence in the country’s legal institutions,” he said in his speech at the National Syariah Lawyers Convention 2026.
