THE Land Code (Amendment) Bill, 2025 introduces a structured legal framework for the registration of wakaf and endowment lands, aiming to reduce disputes, protect the intended purpose of such land, and support better planning for surrounding developments.
Tupong assemblyman Datuk Fazzrudin Abdul Rahman said the inclusion of provisions related to wakaf in the Bill is a much-needed reform to streamline practices within the Land and Survey Department.
“As we all know, wakaf land by definition, is intended for the benefit of all, for example, places of worship, educational institutions, welface centres and other services aimed at community development.
“One of the recurring issues in the past has been the absence of a specific legal framework for wakaf and the registration of endowment land, which has led to confusion and delays,” he said this during debate time at the august House in support of the Bill today (May 20).
He expressed full support and appreciation for the noble intentions of generous donors, both individuals and organisations, who wish to dedicate their land as wakaf.
“However, administrative obstacles have often prevented these intentions from being realised or implemented.
“Through this amendment, we hope that these constraints can be overcome to enable a more orderly and effective wakaf land process,” he added.
He said the Sarawak government places great emphasis on community development, particularly in the areas of spirituality, education, and welfare.
“This is in line with the strategic pillars of the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030), especially the aspect of social inclusivity.”
Fazzrudin added that it is timely to ensure wakaf and endowment lands are respected in broader development strategies.
“This includes the realignment of development proposal approval timeline with the latest State Planning Authority (SPA) policy, incorporating it into Sarawak’s structured planning ecosystem.
“We want to avoid delays that have left wakaf and endowments lands in prolonged legal or operational limbo by improving planning efficiency for lands surrounded by ongoing developments.
“This is a necessary reform that protects the sanctity of public-spirited land contributions and ensures that they are given proper space and respect in our physical development plans,” he said.
