Kota Kinabalu: The State Legislative Assembly on Wednesday passed the Muslim Succession Enactment 2026, making Sabah the first state in Malaysia to introduce a dedicated law governing the administration of Muslim estates under the Syariah Courts.
Local Government and Housing Minister Datuk Dr Mohd Arifin Mohd Arif said the enactment provides a comprehensive legal framework for the administration and distribution of Muslim estates in accordance with Hukum Syarak while safeguarding the rights of heirs and other interested parties.
He said the law covers matters including the determination of heirs, settlement of debts, execution of wills, distribution of inheritance, appointment of executors, and protection for vulnerable beneficiaries.
Mohd Arifin said the enactment also allows non-Muslim family members of deceased Muslim converts to appear before the Syariah Court to state their interests, while the court is empowered to hear related claims in accordance with the law.
He said the enactment, comprising eight parts, 45 clauses and two schedules, will come into force upon publication in the Gazette and involves no additional financial implications for the State Government.
