Kuala lumpur: Landowners facing encroachment issues must resort to legal channels to protect their rights and should not take matters into their own hands to avoid any untoward incidents.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Law and Institutional Reform) Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said emphasized that any ownership disputes or objections to construction on land alleged to have been encroached upon must be officially recorded, either through a police report or legal notice. She noted the importance of having an official record to prevent situations where conflicting claims arise between parties.

Azalina highlighted the risks associated with taking the law into one's own hands, warning that such actions could escalate into more sensitive issues, particularly when they involve beliefs and religion. She commented on this after the launch of the Second Chance Policy Discharge Programme - Fast Track 2026, underscoring the need for a systematic approach to address encroachment disputes.

In response to a statement by Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari, Azalina supported the call for landowners to lodge police reports to enable investigations and possible prosecutions if encroachment offences are validated. She also mentioned that the Legal Affairs Division of the Prime Minister's Department (BHEUU) is prepared to offer mediation services to disputing parties. This approach, she explained, could provide a quicker and more cost-effective resolution compared to taking legal action in court.

Azalina added that existing laws encourage mediation and discussed plans to activate mediation centers across various societal aspects. She mentioned the establishment of tribunals, such as those for anti-bullying, as part of these efforts to promote alternative conflict resolution methods.