Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim reaffirmed that efforts to strengthen the Syariah court system will not infringe on the rights of non-Muslims to practise their religion freely. He stated, "We do not in any way wish to infringe upon the rights of non-Muslims. What we want to uphold is justice, and not deny non-Muslims their rights in matters of their religion" at the 2026 National Convention of the Syariah Legal Profession in Putrajaya today [1, 2].
Anwar emphasized the need to elevate the dignity and standing of the Syariah courts, saying, "We must, however, elevate the dignity and standing of the Syariah courts, in line with our recognition as a nation where Islam is the religion of the Federation" [3]. He noted that since taking office over three years ago, "not a single proposal, including those aimed at strengthening the Syariah courts, has been disputed or objected to by any minister, including non-Muslim ministers" [3].
Despite effective laws, judges, and lawyers, access to justice in Syariah courts remains uneven due to financial disparities. To address this, Anwar announced a RM1.5 million allocation to the Syariah Lawyers Association of Malaysia via the Syariah Legal Aid Centre (BAGUS), prioritizing aid for underprivileged groups such as poor individuals and single mothers [1, 2].
The original purpose of Article 121(1A) of the Federal Constitution, introduced in the late 1980s, was to strengthen Syariah court jurisdiction over Muslim matters without affecting non-Muslim affairs [4, 1, 2]. Anwar stressed the importance of clear explanation, transparency, and rational discussion on Islamic law reforms to build confidence and avoid apprehension among non-Muslims [4].
Ongoing discussions involve the Attorney-General, Syariah court judges, and legal practitioners with the aim to modernize the Syariah court system [4, 2]. A special meeting including the Attorney-General, Chief Justice, Chief Syariah Judge, and representatives from the Syariah Lawyers Association will review proposals to boost the capacity and status of the Syariah courts [2].
Anwar rejected claims that the Unity Government neglected strengthening Islamic institutions, affirming all Syariah court enhancement proposals have been carefully considered by the Cabinet without objections from non-Muslim ministers [1, 2].
The RM1.5 million legal aid funding and ongoing reform discussions signal concrete steps toward improving Syariah courts and ensuring fair access while safeguarding non-Muslim rights.
