Sabah Native Court Judicial Officers Need Competency Framework

Datuk Seri Wilfred Madius Tangau, the Assemblyman for Tamparuli, has urged the Sabah state government to promptly implement a competency framework for the judicial officers of the Native Court. He believes this is crucial for reinforcing the institution of customary law.

Tangau proposed that this framework should encompass all ranks within the judicial system, from village chiefs to judges of the Native High Court. It would serve as the foundation for appointments, training, performance evaluations, and career progression. He stressed that a court's respect hinges on the competence, integrity, and wisdom of its judges.

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A court will only be respected if its judges are respected for possessing high knowledge, integrity, wisdom, and competence. Therefore, the reform of the native court should encompass not only amendments to the law but also the development of its judicial human capital.

To ensure objective assessments and merit-based development, Tangau suggested that the framework be supported by a professional certification system adhering to international standards like ISO/IEC 17024. He also recommended empowering the Sabah Native Court Judicial Training Institute (ILMAN) as a center of excellence for judicial training, customary law research, documentation, and continuous professional development.

Furthermore, Tangau advocated for the establishment of a Sabah Native Court Judicial Service Commission. This body would provide transparent and independent advice on appointments, promotions, training, and the conduct of judicial officers. He concluded by stating that the court's authority rests not on its physical structures but on the integrity of its institutions, the wisdom of its judges, and the public's confidence in its justice system.

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The authority of the court does not depend on its buildings, but on the integrity of its institutions, the wisdom of its judges, and the people's confidence in its justice.