Kuala lumpur: The Malaysian Bar's call to reinstate court functions at Bangunan Sultan Abdul Samad here would honour the continuity of Malaysia's justice system and reinforce public trust in the judiciary, said former Selangor Bar chairman Kokila Vaani Vadiveloo. The lawyer emphasized the historical importance of the building, noting its association with the nation's highest courts and pivotal moments in Malaysia's constitutional development.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Kokila stated that restoring a judicial presence at the site would reconnect the courts with a space symbolizing authority, stability, and public trust. This move would ensure that heritage buildings remain integral to civic life rather than being preserved merely as static monuments. She highlighted that with proper planning, Bangunan Sultan Abdul Samad could meet modern judicial needs while preserving its character, allowing Malaysia to progress without losing touch with its legal history.

Kokila also noted the building's central location along Jalan Raja in the Dataran Merdeka area, emphasizing its accessibility via public transportation. This supports ongoing efforts to enhance access to justice. She suggested that the former court building would be well-suited to house the Federal Court once again, pointing out that the Judiciary currently comprises 14 Federal Court judges. Additionally, she mentioned the possibility of introducing specialized courts, including human rights courts, at the site over time.

Reflecting on personal experiences, Kokila shared that her early exposure to the old court buildings left a lasting impression. She reminisced about accompanying her late father to the old court buildings, which instilled in her a deep appreciation for the significance of the courts as places where law and order are paramount.

Yesterday, the Malaysian Bar issued a statement urging the authorities to consider reinstating court functions at Bangunan Sultan Abdul Samad. The statement cited the building's legal heritage and called for a structured feasibility review covering security, accessibility, conservation, and long-term upkeep.