THE government is reviewing proposals to enhance transparency and accountability in the legal system and improve child protection mechanisms, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reforms) Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said announced.
Speaking during the debate on the 2026 Supply Bill in the Dewan Rakyat, Azalina said the appointment of a Public Prosecutor by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, on the recommendation of the Judicial and Legal Service Commission, is under early consideration.
She stressed that the proposal is still at an initial stage and will undergo thorough review by a Technical Committee before any final decision.
“I believe this reflects the MADANI Government’s commitment to strengthening transparency and accountability in the administration of the country’s legal system. The proposed appointment approach has never been implemented by any previous administration,” she said.
Azalina added that the government is also considering the possible transfer of the Legislative Drafting Division of the Attorney General’s Chambers to Parliament.
“This is a policy issue that requires in-depth study and comprehensive analysis of legal implications, institutional structure, and governance. If implemented, it could enhance transparency, speed up the legislative process, and reinforce Parliament’s autonomy as the country’s supreme law-making institution,” she said.
Formation of National Children’s Commission
Separately, the government is examining the establishment of a National Children’s Commission. Azalina acknowledged that the proposal, put forward by Rodziah Ismail (PH-Ampang), is timely given the growing concerns over child safety, welfare, and protection.
She emphasised that the initiative would be carefully studied in terms of mandate, structure, legal framework, and financial implications to avoid duplication with existing institutions.
“At present, child rights functions are carried out by the Children’s Commissioner under SUHAKAM, which advises the government, monitors the implementation of the Convention on the Rights of the Child, and investigates complaints of child rights violations,” she said.
Azalina noted that strengthening the role and autonomy of the Children’s Commissioner under SUHAKAM remains an immediate priority.
She highlighted that the current framework under Section 6A of the SUHAKAM Act 1999 ensures that the Commissioner’s responsibilities encompass both child-specific issues and broader human rights mandates.
“Considering Malaysia’s child population of approximately 9.13 million, or 27.4 per cent of the total population in 2023, the proposal for a National Children’s Commission is timely and aligns with the government’s vision of appointing a Commissioner in every state in the future,” she said.
Currently, there are three Children’s Commissioners—Dr Mohd Al Adib Samuri, Dr Zufar Yadi Brendan Abdullah, and Melissa Mohd Akhir—with Dr Farah Nini Dusuki serving as Chief Commissioner. - October 29, 2025
