The Malaysian Bar notes the Government’s efforts in introducing the Admiralty Jurisdiction Bill 2026 (“2026 Bill”) but is disappointed that the 2026 Bill, as tabled and read in Parliament on 13 July 2026, does not substantially or meaningfully adopt the legislative framework proposed by the Malaysian Bar following years of consultation and engagement with stakeholders.
The Malaysian Bar’s proposed Admiralty Jurisdiction Bill was intended to establish a modern and comprehensive admiralty regime for Malaysia by drawing upon internationally recognised principles reflected in the United Kingdom’s Senior Courts Act 1981, the International Convention Relating to the Arrest of Sea-Going Ships 1952 and the International Convention on Arrest of Ships 1999. This would provide greater certainty and predictability for maritime stakeholders, align Malaysia more closely with established international maritime jurisdictions, and enhance Malaysia’s attractiveness as a venue for maritime dispute resolution.
The Malaysian Bar is gravely concerned that the 2026 Bill may be worse than the current legal position. Any departure from internationally recognised admiralty principles may lead to uncertainty in certain aspects of maritime disputes and may diminish the competitiveness of Malaysia as a preferred maritime legal hub within the region.
Due to these serious concerns, the Malaysian Bar welcomes the referral of the 2026 Bill to the Parliamentary Special Select Committee (“PSSC”) and hopes that the PSSC will provide a meaningful opportunity and seriously consider the recommendations advanced by the Malaysian Bar and other industry stakeholders. It is unfathomable that the 2026 Bill should be subject to politicisation or partisan politics.
Malaysia possesses all the attributes necessary to become a leading maritime jurisdiction, and the Malaysian Bar remains steadfast in its support for reforms that promote legal certainty, facilitate maritime commerce and strengthen the administration of justice in admiralty and maritime matters.
The Malaysian Bar reiterates its commitment to working constructively with the PSSC, the Government and maritime industry participants to ensure that Malaysia ultimately adopts an admiralty framework that reflects international best practices and the nation’s laws and requirements, thereby serving the interests of shipowners, seafarers, charterers, cargo interests, financiers and insurers operating within the Malaysian maritime sector.
Anand Raj
President
Malaysian Bar
28 July 2026