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Invitation to Townhall on Criminal Law Reform - 11 June 2025, Kuching (Tentative)

22-05-2025

Dear Members, 

Warm greetings,

The Federal Law and Institutional Reform Department (BHEUU), Prime Minister's Department, is organising a Townhall Session on Criminal Law Reform in Kuching, tentatively scheduled for 11 June 2025. This session is part of a nationwide engagement exercise to gather feedback and suggestions from stakeholders on the ongoing review of the following legislation:

  • Penal Code [Act 574]
  • Criminal Procedure Code [Act 593]
  • Evidence Act 1950 [Act 56]

The Townhall will be chaired by The Right Honourable Tan Sri Datuk Harmindar Singh Dhaliwal, Federal Court Judge and Chairman (CLRC).

Notably, several prominent appellate judges -- including YA Dato' Zaini Mazlan, and other distinguished members of the CLRC -- are expected to attend. They wish to hear directly from criminal law practitioners about the real challenges faced in our criminal justice system; from police investigations and prosecutorial conduct to evidential issues, trial delays, remand and bail practices, representation gaps, sentencing inconsistencies, and systemic inefficiencies.

This is a rare and valuable opportunity for Sarawak practitioners to contribute meaningfully to the future of criminal law in Malaysia. Your input will directly inform the law reform proposals being considered at the national level.

We strongly urge all members -- especially those practising criminal law -- to attend and participate in this important dialogue.

To assist BHEUU in estimating attendance, kindly confirm your interest via the following Google Form:
https://forms.gle/9r3W2bQ5WxQrFS2m7

Venue in Kuching to be confirmed soon.

For any queries, you may contact:

Please note that the Advocates Association of Sarawak (AAS) is a member of the CLRC, and is represented on the Committee by Mr. Boston Ho. You may also reach him directly regarding the Townhall or any views you wish to put forward at:-

016-8997000 | boston@bostonalexander.com

Thank you for your attention and support in advancing justice reform in Malaysia.

Thank you + Best regards,
CHRISTINE S H LIM
Honorary Secretary
The Advocates Association of Sarawak