Perak Pioneers the Syariah Chief Court: Elevating the Dignity of Islamic Judiciary in Malaysia
Perak makes history as the first state in Malaysia to establish a Syariah Chief Court, marking a new era in the empowerment of the Islamic judicial institution.
This move not only strengthens the Syariah legal structure in the state but also positions Perak as a leader in the reform of the Islamic judicial system in Malaysia.
History of the Establishment of the Perak Syariah Chief Court
The Perak State Syariah Chief Court was officially established in 2020 after amendments to the Administration of the Religion of Islam (Perak) Enactment 2004 were passed by the State Legislative Assembly through the 2018 Amendment, specifically via Section 44(3A).
This establishment is the result of continuous efforts and commitment by the Perak State Syariah Judiciary Department (JKSNPk), the Perak Islamic Religious and Malay Customs Council (MAIPk), and received the consent of DYMM Paduka Seri Sultan Perak, as the Head of the Islamic Religion of the State.
The Syariah Chief Court officially began its proceedings on August 26, 2020, with the first case heard in a historic and symbolic atmosphere.
Purpose of Establishing the Syariah Chief Court
Among the main purposes for establishing the Syariah Chief Court are:
- To enhance the hierarchy of the Syariah judicial system in Perak
- To improve the appeal process and ensure more comprehensive justice
- To elevate Syariah law to a level equivalent to the civil system
- To provide the highest judicial platform within the state's Islamic judicial system
What is the Syariah Chief Court?
The Syariah Chief Court is the highest court in the Perak State Syariah legal system. It completes a four-tier judicial structure, namely:
- Syariah Subordinate Court
- Syariah High Court
- Syariah Court of Appeal
- Syariah Chief Court (highest tier – only exists in Perak)
Main Functions of the Syariah Chief Court
- Final court of appeal for cases already decided by the Syariah Court of Appeal.
- Strengthening authority and transparency in the Syariah judicial system.
- Serving as a reference model for other states wishing to expand their Islamic judicial structure.
Perak Leads Other States in Malaysia
As of May 2025, no other state in Malaysia has a Syariah Chief Court. Other states still maintain only a three-tier system. Thus, Perak is not only leading in terms of implementation but also demonstrating a far-sighted vision in building a more robust and comprehensive Islamic judicial system.
This action demonstrates:
- Political and administrative courage of the state
- Maturity of Islamic institutions in Perak
- Commitment to the principles of justice and the supremacy of Syariah law
Benefits to the Muslim Community
The establishment of the Syariah Chief Court provides various benefits, including:
- Legal certainty: Final decisions have a profound impact on the development of fiqh and local Syariah legal practices.
- Guaranteed justice: A complete appeal process ensures cases are considered fairly and equitably.
- Elevating the Syariah system: Increasing public confidence in the Islamic judicial institution.
Conclusion: A Step Forward
The establishment of the Syariah Chief Court in Perak is not just an institutional achievement, but clear proof that the state is serious about empowering Syariah comprehensively. It positions Perak as a catalyst for change and a pioneer of reform in the Islamic judicial system in Malaysia.
References
- https://syariah.perak.gov.my/index.php/kehakiman/mahkamah-utama
- https://www.astroawani.com/berita-malaysia/sidang-pertama-pendengaran-kes-mahkamah-utama-syariah-perak-hari-ini-251475
