KUCHING: Integrity is the cornerstone of the Syariah judiciary and serves as the foundation for public trust in the legal system.
Chief Syariah Judge of Sarawak, Datuk Awang Suhaili Ledi said without integrity, justice cannot be upheld.
“Therefore, all parties involved in the Syariah judicial system, from judges to support staff, as well as Syariah prosecutors, religious enforcement officers, and Syariah lawyers, must ensure that the values of honesty, transparency, and accountability are prioritised in every action and decision made,” he said.
He said this at the Syariah Court Conference in conjunction with the opening of the Sarawak Syariah Legal Year 2025, held at the Majma’ Tuanku Abdul Halim Mu’adzam Shah Hall here today (Jan 21).
He also addressed the topic of transformation and digitalisation in the judiciary, highlighting the introduction of artificial intelligence (AI) in the judiciary through the I-Syariah System as one of the key elements.
“With the help of AI, we can enhance the accuracy and efficiency of decisions and judgments in cases, based on legal principles and Syariah laws, aligning with the digital transformation that is increasingly dominating the world,” he added.
However, he emphasised that technology alone is insufficient.
“Integrity and trustworthiness must remain the core principles we uphold firmly.
“All officers must ensure that every decision made is rooted in justice, free from any form of vested interest,” he stressed.
Earlier, a parade involving 520 participants, including Syariah legal practitioners, was held before the Syariah Court Conference took place.
Also present was the Director-General and Chief Syariah Judge of the Department of Syariah Judiciary Malaysia, Datuk Mohd Amran Mat Zain.
