PUTRAJAYA, Malsysia. 26 June 2025 – The Federal Court’s decision to dismiss Maria Chin Abdullah’s challenge against the Syariah High Court’s contempt proceedings reaffirms the sovereignty and jurisdiction of the Syariah Court, said Senator Dato’ Setia Dr. Haji Mohd Na’im Haji Mokhtar, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs).
In a landmark ruling, the Federal Court rejected Maria Chin’s application for a judicial review of the Syariah High Court’s show-cause notice and its approval to initiate committal proceedings against her for allegedly insulting the court. The minister stated that the decision clearly demonstrates the Syariah High Court’s lawful exercise of its authority as provided under the law.
“The attempt to file a judicial review against Syariah Court proceedings was an effort to obstruct the Syariah High Court from carrying out its judicial duties, which the Federal Court has decisively rejected,” Mohd Na’im said in a statement.
Citing Article 121(1A) of the Federal Constitution, the minister emphasized the clear separation of jurisdiction between civil and Syariah courts, noting that Syariah Court decisions cannot be reviewed or challenged in civil courts due to their distinct legal authority.
Mohd Na’im cautioned that attempts to allow civil court interference in Syariah Court decisions contradict the spirit of the Constitution and could undermine the stability of Malaysia’s dual legal system, a unique feature of the nation’s judiciary.
He urged the public to respect the Federal Court’s ruling and recognize the Syariah Court as a legitimate and sovereign judicial institution.
“Both civil and Syariah courts should be seen as complementary, not competing, with the shared goal of upholding justice and truth within the nation’s legal framework,” he added.
The minister called on all parties to refrain from politicizing the ruling and instead focus on strengthening commitment to the rule of law and preserving the harmony of Malaysia’s legal system. As the minister responsible for Islamic affairs, Mohd Na’im vowed to continue championing the Syariah Court’s dignity and authority to ensure it remains respected, trusted, and credible in delivering a just, authoritative, and constitutional Islamic justice system.