Malaysia to implement separation of powers for Attorney General, Public Prosecutor in October

Malaysia is poised to enact a significant institutional reform by separating the powers of the Attorney General and the Public Prosecutor, with implementation slated for October. This move, a key part of the government's reform agenda, will be presented to the Council of Rulers for approval.

Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Law and Institutional Reform) Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said confirmed the decision, stating that Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has directed the recommendations from the Parliamentary Special Select Committee to undergo the necessary processes. The Council of Rulers meeting is expected in October, coinciding with the final parliamentary session of the year, making it a timely period for the amendments.

The special select committee conducted extensive reviews and consultations with lawmakers, legal experts, and stakeholders to formulate the proposals. Their report, presented in June and read in the Dewan Rakyat in July, includes recommendations such as creating a code of ethics for the Public Prosecutor, establishing a reporting mechanism to Parliament, and involving Parliament in the appointment process of the Public Prosecutor.