KUCHING: The planned reformation of the Sarawak Native Court would be submitted to the state Cabinet soon.
Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department Datuk John Sikie Tayai noted that the transition will broaden the court’s jurisdiction.
“This proposal will be tabled to the Cabinet as soon as possible, possibly next year.
“After being approved by the state Cabinet, it will then be brought to the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting in May 2023,” he said.
He told reporters this after officiating the Sarawak Native Court Case Handling Workshop For Community Leaders And Tribal Leaders For The Southern Zone 2022 at Grand Margherita Hotel here on Monday (Oct 24).
He said studies carried out by relevant consultants regarding the restructuring have been completed.
The recommendations in the study report, he added, will then be presented to the state Cabinet.
“The Sarawak Native Court is currently in the process of preparing a report on this matter.
“This is to obtain consideration and approval of the ‘Transformation Master Plan for the Native Courts of Sarawak’ proposed in the Final Study Report.
“This will involve a new Bill being presented to the DUN and if approved, the new Native Court Ordinance Bill will replace the current Native Court Ordinance 1993,” he explained.
Sikie also pointed out that according to recommendations by the consultants, the name of the Sarawak Native Court will also be changed to the Sarawak Customary Court.
