Page 20 - The Guide To Sarawak

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INTRODUCTION TO MALAYSIA
The Palace of Justice in Putrajaya houses Malaysia’s two highest courts, the Court of Appeal and the Federal Court. Its symmetrical design represents the order resulting from well-administered justice.
Rule of law is enforced
by a professional Police Force. Crime is low and violent crime against foreign visitors is rare. Corruption is addressed through the Malaysian Anti Corruption Commission and the Government recognises the work of independent agencies
such as Transparency International in its efforts to promote an ethical society.
External security is guaranteed by well trained, seasoned armed forces, who have distinguished themselves in UN peacekeeping missions
in some of the world’s
most volatile regions, including Somalia, Bosnia Herzegovina and East Timor.
The country also enforces strict laws against racial and religious strife. Political protest is peaceful and
Action Party (DAP), who form an informal electoral coalition - the Pakatan Rakyat (People’s Alliance).
Legal System
Malaysia has an Anglo- Saxon style legal framework based on that of the UK with a written Constitution. An independent Judiciary consists of the Federal Court at its apex followed by the Court of Appeal. Below these are the High Court in Malaya, whose jurisdiction covers Peninsular Malaysia, the High Court in Sabah
and Sarawak, whose jurisdiction covers East Malaysia, followed by
the Sessions Court and Magistrates’ Court.
A system of Shariah Courts deals with Islamic Law, principally family
and inheritance cases. The Shariah Court’s jurisdiction is limited to Muslims,
although non-Muslims may also choose to be tried or to litigate under Shariah law if they so wish.
Security
Malaysia is a safe country to reside in and do business.
Prime Minister Dato’ Sri Najib Tun Razak, a former Defence Minister, inspects a Police General Operations Force unit in Kuala Lumpur.