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S'wak Syariah dept to introduce new reforms, says Chief Judge
Awang Suhaili (third left) presents a token of appreciation to Nancy.
MIRI (Aug 17): The Sarawak Syariah Judiciary Department (JKSS) is rolling out a series of reforms to strengthen access to justice and support the welfare of Muslim families in the state.
Syariah Chief Judge Datu Awang Suhaili Ledi said some of the reforms included reducing the time for failed 'sulh' cases in the Syariah Subordinate Court from 25 days to one day, and streamlining applications for 'wali hakim' (guardian judges) and divorce by mutual consent.
He said these measures would improve the efficiency of Syariah judicial services while ensuring justice remains transparent, effective and responsive to community needs.
Awang Suhaili added the reforms were consistent with the Sarawak Islamic Council's Action Plan 2021–2030 and the JKSS Transformation Plan, which emphasises public understanding of Islamic family law.
'Other measures are improvements to matrimonial case management and faster hearing processes. The judiciary has also established the Family Support Division and a new Monitoring Unit to ensure enforcement of court orders.
'This proactive approach ensures fathers do not neglect their responsibilities for children even after divorce, while building public confidence in the Syariah legal system,' he said when officiating the 'Wacana Khas Keluarga Islam Sarawak 2025' on Sunday.
Themed 'Syariah as the Basis of a Prosperous Family', the programme was jointly organised by JKSS and the Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development to raise public awareness of Islamic family law, provide guidance on marital issues, and strengthen community support systems for Muslim families in Sarawak.
Also present was Minister of Women, Family and Community Development Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri. Awang Suhaili Ledi Muslim reforms Sarawak Syariah Judiciary Department
