Kuala lumpur: The Asian International Arbitration Centre (AIAC) today officially launched its Pro Bono Commercial Mediation Initiative, marking a significant step forward in enhancing public access to justice and easing the burden on the Malaysian court system. Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Law and Institutional Reform) Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said noted that the initiative reflects the government's values and commitment to ensuring that justice remains accessible to all, regardless of financial background.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the initiative directly addresses the challenges faced by small and medium enterprises (SMEs), startups, and ordinary businesses, which often encounter legal disputes that threaten their survival but lack the financial resources to endure lengthy courtroom battles. In line with the initiative, the minister said the government is currently reviewing the Mediation Act 2012 to explore broader reforms, including the possibility of introducing mandatory mediation for selected categories of small claims and commercial disputes.
At a press conference after the launch, Azalina said commercial disputes involving claims of RM250,000 and below are expected to be resolved within five days through the initiative. She emphasized the efficiency of mediation in resolving disputes quickly compared to lengthy court cases. The scope of commercial disputes covered includes services, supply, sale and purchase, trade and marketing, real estate, companies and partnerships, e-commerce, as well as the digital economy.
In a statement, Azalina added that mediation offers an effective out-of-court mechanism that can reduce unnecessary litigation while delivering faster and more practical outcomes for disputing parties. She highlighted the significant ripple effects of unresolved commercial conflicts on various economic factors, emphasizing the importance of timely resolution.
Meanwhile, AIAC chief executive officer Datuk Almalena Sharmila Johan, in her welcoming remarks at the launching ceremony, said the initiative is a direct manifestation of the centre's profound responsibility to champion equitable and accessible dispute resolution frameworks. She noted that applications for the initiative can be made via walk-in or online, administered under a specialised protocol available in four main languages - Malay, Chinese, Tamil, and English.
AIAC Court of Arbitration President Datuk Mary Lim Thiam Suan added that mediation offers a healthier choice for disputing parties to regain control over their conflicts. She highlighted the overwhelming response from the legal community, with more than 150 mediators qualifying and waiving remuneration for their time and effort.