Tuaran: The Sabah Native Courts will undergo major reforms under the Native Courts Bill 2026, which was passed by the State Legislative Assembly in July.
Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor said the new law would strengthen the courts through a restructured judicial system comprising the District Native Court, High Native Court and Native Court of Appeal.
The reforms also include the creation of Chief Judge, Chief Justice of the Native Court, Native Court Prosecutor and Registrar positions, with judicial appointments based on merit.
He said the changes aimed to modernise the Native Courts, clarify their jurisdiction and strengthen the administration of native customary laws while preserving the traditional roles of native customary leaders.
Hajiji said the State Government would also allocate funds to upgrade court facilities, including the proposed upgrading of the Sabah Native Courts Judicial Complex and construction of new courts in several districts.
