KUANTAN, Dec 21 — Individuals facing Syariah criminal charges in Pahang will soon have access to free legal assistance following the expansion of the National Legal Aid Foundation (YBGK) services to the state’s Syariah Courts, in partnership with the Malaysian Syariah Lawyers Association Pahang chapter.
The initiative marks a significant milestone in strengthening justice accessibility, especially for low-income groups who often struggle to afford legal representation. With this expansion, Syariah legal aid will now parallel support long available in civil criminal proceedings.
PGSM Pahang deputy chairman Abdullah Hakim Ahmad said the organisation has been appointed as the state secretariat for YBGK’s implementation. Approximately 50 Syariah lawyers will undergo training to become certified panel lawyers and are expected to begin service in 2026.
He said the move would further enhance the efficiency and credibility of the Syariah justice system by ensuring represented cases are handled more systematically and professionally.
A special briefing on the expansion was conducted, chaired by Pahang Chief Syariah Judge Datuk Abdul Walid Abu Hassan. The session reflected strong support from the judiciary towards ensuring broader public access to justice.
YBGK executive officer Nurakmal Farhan Aziz explained that legal aid coverage will include all categories of offences under the Pahang Syariah Criminal Enactment, ensuring comprehensive access for eligible individuals.
The initiative is expected to empower the Muslim community, protect legal rights and strengthen public confidence in the Syariah judicial system while aligning with national efforts to enhance fairness and social justice.