Kuala lumpur: The Coroners Bill, aimed at clarifying the management of death cases, is expected to be tabled in Parliament next year, said Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Law and Institutional Reform) Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said. She stated that while the bill was initially slated for this year, the timing coinciding with the Budget 2027 session makes it more suitable for next year.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Azalina emphasized that the drafting of the law is designed to establish standard operating procedures (SOPs) and delineate the roles of coroners and other relevant parties in handling death cases. "We hope that with this act, we can establish SOPs and answer questions that arise. We do not want families searching for answers when a death occurs," she told reporters after launching the Public Opinion Survey on the Drafting of the Coroners Bill.

Azalina noted that while there are existing procedures for death investigations under current legislation, the proposed Coroners Act will complement these procedures and provide clearer guidance on implementation. In her earlier speech, she outlined three main goals for the legislation: establishing a clear and comprehensive legal framework, creating a structured and independent coroner system, and clarifying responsibilities when a death is reported.

"We also want a system that not only determines the cause of death but also identifies weaknesses to prevent similar tragedies from recurring," Azalina added. She stressed that findings should not be overlooked, as they can help protect other lives.

Malaysia currently has an inquest framework under the Criminal Procedure Code and Practice Direction No. 2 of 2019. However, Azalina pointed out that death investigations have become more complex, involving digital evidence, forensic analysis, and inter-agency coordination.

Azalina highlighted ongoing inquest proceedings into the death of Zara Qairina Mahathir as a reminder of the importance of evidence management and early communication with families. She also cited cases such as those of Muhammad Adib Mohd Kassim and Teoh Beng Hock, emphasizing the need for an independent and credible process in serious cases.

The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM), the Malaysian Bar, and others have raised the need for legal reform. Azalina stated, "The principle is simple: justice should not depend on whether a case goes viral."

Additionally, Azalina mentioned that the government is considering a proposal to establish a Law Reform Commission to review national laws systematically and independently. She emphasized that law reform should be planned to ensure the legal framework remains relevant and responsive to social needs.