KUALA LUMPUR: The government is working to strengthen the Syariah judicial system and elevate the status of Syariah judges through proposed legislation.

Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Mohd Na’im Mokhtar confirmed a study is underway for laws enabling the Malaysian Syariah Judiciary Commission’s establishment.

He identified the Syariah Courts Act, Syariah Judicial Appointment Commission Act, and Syariah Judges Remuneration Act as key legislation under review.

The government is also considering special retirement schemes and dedicated legislation specifically for Syariah judges.

Mohd Na’im stated the MADANI government aims to establish the commission under the 13th Malaysia Plan through the Department of Syariah Judiciary Malaysia.

A drafting committee with relevant agencies is conducting detailed studies to ensure alignment with state jurisdictions and existing legal structures.

Proposed amendments include raising Syariah judges’ retirement age from 60 to 66 years under the Syariah Judges Remuneration Act.

This proposal remains under discussion while current public service retirement laws continue applying to Syariah judges.

The government is studying the creation of a Syariah Supreme Court as implemented in Perak and Sabah.

This proposal will be included in the Syariah Courts Bill expected for parliamentary tabling next year.

A key amendment involves establishing a court level above the Syariah Court of Appeal for Federal Territories.

Mohd Na’im confirmed government support for making Pusrawi Hospital a Syariah-compliant healthcare facility.

The government plans expanding this Syariah-compliant hospital concept to other Islamic healthcare institutions.

This initiative aims to strengthen zakat and waqf health fund utilisation while collaborating with the Health Ministry.

The effort seeks to improve Malaysia’s Islamic healthcare system through enhanced partnerships and funding mechanisms. – Bernama

 The Sun Malaysia