They say the move would speed up the disposal of corruption cases and reinforce perceptions that the country takes such offences seriously.
Malaysian Bar president Ezri Abdul Wahab and retired senior judge Hamid Sultan Abu Backer said the move would speed up the disposal of corruption cases and reinforce perceptions that Malaysia takes graft offences seriously.
Ezri explained that the expansion of specialised corruption courts will most directly affect the post-charge stage, as probe timelines remain within the purview of investigating agencies and charging decisions rest with the public prosecutor.
“However, once a case is before the court, specialised benches can improve the management of cases, ensure continuity, and reduce waiting time for trial dates, particularly in complex matters,” he told FMT.
Ezri said the timely resolution of corruption cases is crucial in maintaining public confidence in the justice system and demonstrating that allegations involving public office and public funds are addressed consistently and seriously.
“Justice must not only be fair but timely, especially where public integrity is concerned,” he said.
He said the expeditious disposal of corruption cases may also affect Malaysia’s standing in international governance indicators, such as Transparency International’s Corruption Perceptions Index.
It could also improve investors’ perceptions of the reliability and effectiveness of the country’s legal system, he added.
On Feb 19, media reported that Kuala Lumpur High Court judge Noor Ruwena Nurdin has been appointed to preside over a newly-established special corruption High Court in Kuala Lumpur, effective April 1.
The court was created in line with the king’s call for experienced judges and a dedicated pathway to ensure swift disposal of corruption cases.
Malaysia currently has 14 special corruption sessions courts nationwide, with the judiciary targeting the disposal of corruption cases within one year of filing, although complex cases involving extensive documentary evidence and multiple witnesses may take longer to conclude.
Asked if there was a need to establish more special corruption High Courts nationwide, Ezri said court capacity should match the caseload and be measured against disposal targets.
Hamid said assigning judges specifically to corruption cases would allow them to develop the expertise needed to manage proceedings more efficiently.
He pointed out that corruption cases can be more complex than ordinary criminal trials, as they may involve extensive documentary evidence, financial trials, abuse of power allegations and money laundering charges.
“Thus, it is good to have a dedicated corruption court so the judge assigned will acquire the skill to move the case fast and deliver decisions and judgments in a timely manner,” he said.
“All criminal cases constitutionally must be heard expeditiously to avoid human misery and the enshrined right to freedom,” he added.
Systemic reform still needed
Ezri, however, said that expanding the number of courts alone will not resolve systemic delays if problems persist at the investigation or prosecution stages.
“Reform must strengthen the entire pipeline, not just the courtroom stage,” he said.
Ezri also said the expansion must be supported by experienced judges, adequate infrastructure, and properly resourced prosecutors and lawyers. - FMT
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