KUCHING – The Yang di-Pertua Negeri Sarawak, Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, and his wife Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah Mohd Sanusi today welcomed a courtesy delegation from the Sarawak Shariah Judiciary Department at Astana Negeri Sarawak.
Leading the delegation was Chief Shariah Judge Datu Awg. Suhaili Ledi, accompanied by Shariah High Court Judge Rosidi Masli, Acting Chief Registrar Noor Rafidah Ali, Harizan Hamzah (Chairman of the Sarawak Shariah Lawyers Association), deputy chairman Arip Ameran, and research officer Mohd Hazim Borhan.
The purpose of the meeting was to update the Head of State on progress concerning the drafting of the Sarawak Shariah Legal Professionals Ordinance—a proposed law intended to enhance the regulation and stature of Shariah legal practitioners in the state. Sources indicate the ordinance would address competency, admission, disciplinary measures and professional oversight.
In his remarks, Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi offered guidance and reaffirmed his full backing for efforts to elevate the professionalism, efficiency and credibility of the Shariah legal sector in Sarawak. The drafting of the ordinance is widely seen as a pivotal move in reinforcing the Shariah legal framework within the state.
This meeting follows earlier advocacy by the Head of State for stricter regulation of Shariah lawyers, including proposals for a “call to the bar” mechanism, structured practical training, and the establishment of a regulatory body, as well as a legal aid scheme to ensure access to Shariah legal services.
During his tenure, Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi has also emphasised the principle of separation of powers to maintain the independence and integrity of the Shariah judiciary, an approach he argues is vital for public confidence in the system.
The courtesy call capped a moment of institutional engagement, with both sides signalling continued cooperation as Sarawak advances toward formalising and strengthening its Shariah legal architecture.