Kota kinabalu: The Sabah Legislative Assembly today passed two significant pieces of legislation, the Muslim Succession Bill 2026 and the Native Courts Bill 2026. Both Bills were tabled by Sabah Local Government and Housing Minister Datuk Dr Mohd Arifin Arif, who also oversees the state's Islamic Affairs portfolio.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Muslim Succession Bill 2026 was passed following a debate involving five assemblymen, with state assembly speaker Datuk Seri M Kadzim Yahya presiding. The Native Courts Bill 2026 was approved after a discussion by 12 assemblymen, with deputy speaker Datuk Richard Wong We Kong overseeing the proceedings.

Mohd Arifin, when presenting the Muslim Succession Bill 2026, stated that the legislation aims to establish a more systematic, clear, and effective framework based on four key considerations. These include the introduction of a structured legal framework for Muslim inheritance, safeguarding the rights and interests of heirs, streamlining the administration of deceased estates in line with syariah principles, and enhancing compliance and enforcement to prevent unauthorized management of estate assets.

The Minister emphasized that the Bill represents Malaysia's first legislation specifically addressing the administration of Muslim estates under the Syariah Courts' jurisdiction.

Regarding the Native Courts Bill 2026, Mohd Arifin explained that it aims to replace the existing law with a more comprehensive, structured, and responsive legal framework. This change is intended to align with developments in the judicial system and the aspirations of Sabah's native communities. He highlighted the need for reforms to ensure the customary justice system remains relevant while preserving Sabah's native customs' roots and uniqueness.

The proposed Bill seeks to streamline the hierarchy of the Native Courts through the establishment of the Native District Court, Native High Court, and Native Court of Appeal. Mohd Arifin noted that the Bill introduces a Native Judicial Appointments Advisory Committee to ensure appointments are based on transparency, merit, qualifications, experience, and knowledge of customary law. This approach marks a shift from appointments based solely on administrative positions to those based on judicial capability.