A preliminary report on reforms to Sabah’s native court system has been completed, Deputy Chief Minister II Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam said.

He noted that the report, prepared by the Majlis Hal Ehwal Anak Negeri Sabah led by Dr Benedict Topin marked the first step toward modernizing the system.

“The native court system in Sabah was introduced by the British, and many of its ordinances still need to be updated.

“We are exploring ways to upgrade it so that it is on par with at least the Sharia court system,” he said. 

The native courts handle customary law cases, but Gunsalam acknowledged the need for reforms to improve efficiency and recognition within Sabah’s legal framework.

He also addressed concerns over the inclusion of Muslim judges in native courts, saying their presence has always been part of the system.

“Since we started the native court system, there have always been both Muslim and non-Muslim judges,” he said.

His remarks come after Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor announced plans to elevate native courts through a dedicated department, while Sabah Law Society President Roger Chin has said achieving parity with Shariah and civil courts would require amending or omitting Section 9 of the Native Courts Enactment.

The completion of the preliminary report signals progress, but the timeline for full reforms remains uncertain. 

Gunsalam also spoke on Sabah’s ongoing efforts to manage stray dogs following a recent culling incident in Kunak.

“I have yet to receive an official report on what happened in Kunak, but we are actively working to address the issue across Sabah,” he said.

He added that the government is engaging with the Sabah Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) to find a humane and effective solution.

“Whatever actions we take must be humane, ethical, and sensitive to animal welfare concerns,” he said.– February 6, 2025.