Melaka: The Melaka government aims to establish the Main Syariah Court next year as an additional tier in the state's Syariah judicial hierarchy, subject to the established legal process. State Education, Higher Education, and Religious Affairs Committee Chairman Datuk Rahmad Mariman announced this initiative as part of key reforms planned through the drafting of the Melaka Syariah Courts Bill and the Syariah Court Civil Procedure (Court Fees) Rules.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Rahmad emphasized that these reforms also involve streamlining the appointment process for Syarie judges, alongside the establishment of the Main Syariah Court. This move is intended to provide an additional channel in Melaka's Syariah judicial hierarchy. The current plans target the implementation of this institution next year, contingent upon the required legal processes, which include amendments to be tabled at the State Assembly sitting.
Earlier, Rahmad officiated the Melaka Syariah Court Mahabbah Programme 2026, an event attended by Melaka Mufti Datuk Abdul Halim Tawil and Melaka Chief Syarie Judge Azzeman Omar at the Melaka Syariah Court Complex in Ayer Keroh. The programme aims to bring the Syariah judicial system closer to the public and foster a better understanding of their rights, responsibilities, and proper legal channels when confronting family or legal matters.
Meanwhile, Rahmad reported that the Melaka Syariah Court resolved 11,037 out of 13,424 civil and criminal cases, or 82 percent, between January 2024 and August this year. This achievement reflects the institution's commitment to ensuring a more efficient judicial process while addressing public needs concerning family disputes, rights claims, and legal issues.
Rahmad highlighted the broader role of the Syariah Court, emphasizing its function as a bulwark for family harmony and societal stability. Additionally, he announced that the state-level Maulidur Rasul celebration would be held on August 29 at Dataran 1Malaysia Klebang, featuring special awards across various categories to recognize Islamic institutional administration.