KUALA LUMPUR – Physical court proceedings for criminal cases are allowed in Phase 1 of the National Recovery Plan, said Senior Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob.
However, he said these in-person proceedings do not apply to areas under the enhanced movement control order (EMCO).
He said the operations will follow strict standard operating procedures, adding that the details will be announced soon by de facto Law Minister Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan.
“The government has decided on this matter after being informed by the Federal Court registrar that there will be congestion in lock-ups and prisons if hearings are not held during EMCO.
“We are worried that there will be an increase in... Covid-19 infections in lock-ups and prisons, as happened before in MCO 1.0,” he said during a joint press conference with Finance Minister Datuk Seri Tengku Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz today.
In Phase 1, civil case proceedings may be held virtually in EMCO areas.
Since the courts will be reopening on Monday, law firms are also allowed to operate as usual.
“Documentation matters that involve government departments, including land offices, banking institutions and court proceedings, as well as other matters, need to be sorted out,” said Ismail Sabri.
“Therefore, the government has agreed to allow law firms to open as usual.” – The Vibes, July 3, 2021
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