KUCHING: The Sarawak government has embarked on proactive measures to ensure its legal framework remains relevant and responsive to emerging challenges.

In a directive issued this week, Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg instructed the Sarawak Attorney General’s Chambers (SAG) to establish a dedicated Research Division tasked with scrutinising and updating state legislation, particularly statutes that have become obsolete.

“Until now, SAG did not possess a Research Division,” the Sarawak Premier explained during the Ministry of Natural Resources and Urban Development (MUDENR) Appreciation Ceremony at a prominent city hotel on Friday.

“I have asked Dato Sri Talat Mahmood Abdul Rashid, a former Attorney General, to lead a special study of our existing laws, including those stemming from the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63), as well as any antiquated legislation that requires reassessment.”

He emphasised that the review will extend to regulations affecting trade, the environment and investment, underscoring that “if there are other laws related to commerce, those too must be examined in light of our responsibilities.”

At the conclusion of the ceremony, the Sarawak Premier presented the 2024 MUDENR Excellent Service Award and handed certificates of appreciation to staff members who have retired or been transferred.

Also in attendance were the Sarawak Premier’s wife, Puan Sri Datuk Amar Hajjah Juma’ani Tun Tuanku Bujang, Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan, Deputy Minister of MUDENR Datuk Len Talif Salleh and Permanent Secretary Datu Abdullah Julaihi. -UKASnews