Malaysia plans a national mediation centre to reduce court backlogs and legal expenses, offering affordable dispute resolution initially in KL and Putrajaya.
KUALA LUMPUR: The government is considering the establishment of a Malaysia Mediation Centre (MMC) under the Legal Aid Department.
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said said the initiative aims to strengthen out-of-court dispute resolution.
It seeks to reduce case backlogs and lower legal costs for the public by streamlining separate systems run by various ministries.
A Cabinet paper will be tabled soon to seek approval for a structured framework including mediator registration.
Standardised training modules would be developed under the National Legal Academy of the Prime Minister’s Department.
“The advantage of mediation is that it costs less than normal court proceedings,” Azalina said after a conference.
She likened the process to the Islamic concept of ‘sulh’, a consensus that restores peace between parties.
The goal is to resolve disputes at the MMC without the need for costly and lengthy court proceedings.
Azalina noted that not all individuals can afford litigation or expensive legal advice.
She cited the high cost of legal letters and services as a significant barrier for many.
“Even a letter of demand can cost between RM300 and RM500,” she explained.
This expense is challenging even for the M40 group, including young entrepreneurs.
The proposed centre would initially operate in Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya.
Mediation services would also be available online to reduce logistical costs for users.
This move is part of broader efforts to improve access to justice amid economic challenges.
Azalina noted that court processes incur additional costs like travel and fuel.
Retired judges and civil servants could be engaged as mediators to leverage their expertise.
Earlier, Azalina announced another related initiative for commercial disputes.
The Asian International Arbitration Centre will introduce pro bono commercial mediation.
This service will focus on disputes involving claims of up to RM250,000.
It is expected to be supported by a panel of independent mediators.
The focus is on amicable and effective dispute resolution to support economic growth.
In a separate development, Azalina addressed the separation of powers issue.
A committee meeting on separating the Attorney General and Public Prosecutor roles will be held.
The meeting on April 9 will review feedback from non-governmental and civil society organisations.