Time to move from punitive to restorative justice system - minister

Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Liew Vui Keong said it was time for the country to consider a restorative over a punitive justice system.

Liew (above), who is in charge of law, said this after a gathering of lawmakers with Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad on the law reform agenda this afternoon.

Liew said Mahathir, in his address, said the government must ensure that any law that is introduced or amended is just and upholds the rule of law on top of ensuring that the process is inclusive.

"There are many archaic and draconian laws that are no longer relevant in a New Malaysia which need to be reviewed.

"The law reform process must always consider all quarters including NGOs and minorities to ensure that they are inclusive, holistic and effective.

"Furthermore, leaders must consider global trends and perhaps it is time for the punitive nature of the justice system in Malaysia to shift towards a restorative one in the interest of social harmony," he said in a statement after the gathering. 

Recollecting Mahathir's advice, Liew said the government must ensure that proposed new laws must be to address real problems and backed by comprehensive data.

On Thursday, Health Minister Dzulkefly Ahmad announced the government was moving towards decriminalising personal possession of drugs.

He added that this is not to be confused with legalising drugs as drug use remains an offence but the aim will now be to treat users as patients rather than criminals.