A proposed special tribunal for crime victim compensation could order community service as an alternative to monetary restitution, says minister Azalina Othman Said.
PUTRAJAYA: A special tribunal being considered to handle compensation claims for families of crime victims may order community service as an alternative to monetary restitution.
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform) Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said stated that the assessment of compensation types must be viewed broadly, considering both the individuals and the capacity of the responsible parties.
She explained that the issue is being examined from a wide perspective within the Criminal Law Reform Committee, citing corporate responsibility in cases like a negligent bus driver as an example where a company should be held accountable.
“But if the company is responsible, we cannot exactly send the company to prison,” she said after a ceremony for the Legal Aid Department.
Azalina was commenting on media reports that the Attorney General’s Chambers is examining a proposal to establish the special tribunal.
Attorney General Tan Sri Mohd Dusuki Mokhtar had confirmed the proposal requires a detailed study to ensure effective implementation.
The proposal follows calls from politicians and legal experts for compensation to be given to families of victims who have died as a result of crime, including accidents.
Azalina noted the situation differs when an organisation is held responsible, with compensation potentially forming part of the sentencing package.
She believes the proposed tribunal requires adjustment, as compensation need not be solely monetary.
The minister cited practices in the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada and Germany that implement restitution in the form of community service.
