Melaka: The signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Multimedia University (MMU) and the Legal Affairs Division (BHEUU) of the Prime Minister's Department today is expected to strengthen efforts to expand access to legal aid and improve legal literacy among the public.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Law and Institutional Reform) Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said stated that the collaboration aims to reinforce legal and institutional reforms through the sharing of expertise, research, training, and best practices, while also enhancing the competency of legal practitioners and relevant stakeholders. She emphasized that the launch of the MMU Legal Aid Clinic (MULA Clinic) is highly significant in ensuring access to justice for all segments of society.
Azalina remarked that access to justice is the cornerstone of any society founded on the rule of law. However, she noted that there are still barriers such as cost, awareness, and accessibility that need to be addressed. She was speaking at the MoU signing ceremony between MMU and BHEUU, as well as the launch of the MULA Clinic at Persada Permata Dunia MMU Melaka Campus today, where MMU president and chief executive officer Prof. Datuk Dr Mazliham Mohd Su'ud and BHEUU director-general Datuk Zamri Misman were also present.
Azalina highlighted that, in line with the MADANI Government's commitment, initiatives like the Justice on Wheels programme run by the Legal Aid Department (JBG) have been strengthened to bridge gaps in access to justice. This initiative delivers legal services directly to communities, particularly in rural and remote areas. She also mentioned the Legal Aid and Public Defender Act 2026 as a significant reform initiative aimed at coordinating legal aid mechanisms, widening access to assistance, and introducing a Public Defender system for those in need.
Furthermore, Azalina stressed the importance of preparing society for the rapid advancement of Artificial Intelligence (AI), which increasingly influences everyday life, including the legal and employment sectors. She expressed hope that the collaboration will lead to new and innovative approaches to increasing legal awareness, including through digital platforms, creative content, and technology-based outreach initiatives.
Azalina concluded by emphasizing that legal literacy is crucial in building a just and progressive nation. When citizens understand their rights and responsibilities, they are better able to participate meaningfully in society.