KOTA KINABALU: July 23, 2026 – The Native Courts Bill 2026 has been described as a catalyst for reforming Sabah’s customary justice system, through the establishment of a more modern court structure and the strengthening of Native Court institutions.
Appointed State Assemblyman, Datuk Roger Chin, said the reforms demonstrate the government’s commitment to strengthening the Native Customary Law system as an institution that remains relevant within Sabah’s legal landscape.
He was speaking while debating the Native Courts Bill 2026 during the Sabah State Legislative Assembly sitting today.
According to him, the Bill does not merely replace the Native Courts Enactment 1992, but introduces a new judicial hierarchy comprising the District Native Court, the High Native Court and the Native Court of Appeal.
The Bill also strengthens the judicial appointment process, establishes the positions of Chief Judge, Principal Judge, Native Court Counsel and Registrar, while expanding jurisdiction and modernising Native Court proceedings.
“This Bill is far greater than just replacing the Native Courts Enactment 1992. It represents a serious effort to strengthen the institutional foundation that will govern Native Customary Law for generations to come,” he said.
Roger said the Native Courts hold a unique position within Sabah’s legal system as they administer Native Customary Law, which is still practised and serves as a reference for communities in various customary matters.
He said the strength of Sabah’s legal system lies in its ability to recognise the existence of multiple legal traditions, including civil law, Shariah law and Native Customary Law, each with its own distinct functions.
“The greatest contribution of this Bill is that it affirms that Native Customary Law is a living legal system, entitled to modern institutions, professional judges, principled jurisprudential development and continuous legal evolution,” he said.
He expressed hope that the reforms introduced through the Bill will serve as the foundation for ongoing efforts to strengthen the Native Courts as modern, authoritative judicial institutions capable of meeting the needs of Sabah’s society in the future.
