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Malaysia pushes landmark Bill to split Attorney General and Public Prosecutor roles

A historic shift in Malaysia's justice system is underway. Will separating these powerful legal roles restore public trust—or spark new debates?

The image shows the logo of the Indonesian government, which consists of a shield with a blue...
The image shows the logo of the Indonesian government, which consists of a shield with a blue background, a white star in the center, and a red and yellow banner with the words "Jurutera Diraja" written in white. The shield is surrounded by a laurel wreath and topped with a crown.

Malaysia pushes landmark Bill to split Attorney General and Public Prosecutor roles

The Parliamentary Special Select Committee held its fifth meeting to advance plans for separating the roles of the Attorney General and Public Prosecutor. Led by Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform), the session focused on refining a new draft Bill. The government has stressed its commitment to ensuring the changes align fully with the Constitution. During the meeting, the Attorney General’s Chambers delivered a detailed presentation on the proposed Bill. The committee aims to finalise the legislation before May 18, 2026, as part of broader efforts to reform the justice system.

Representation at the meeting included MPs from Parit Sulong, Selayang, Bangi, Lubok Antu, Bukit Gelugor, Tawau, and Muar. However, lawmakers from Alor Gajah, Larut, Beluran, and Kota Bharu were absent. The separation of these key legal roles is intended to reinforce the separation of powers. Officials have also highlighted the move as a step toward boosting public confidence in the country’s judicial processes.

The committee continues its work to meet the May 2026 deadline for the Bill. If passed, the reforms will mark a structural shift in Malaysia’s legal framework. The government maintains that all adjustments will strictly follow constitutional requirements.

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