High Courts of Malaysia

The High Courts are an integral part of the superior courts in Malaysia. There are two High Courts with equal status:

The High Court in Malaya (for Peninsular Malaysia)
The High Court in Sabah and Sarawak

Jurisdiction

The High Courts have extensive original and appellate jurisdiction in both civil and criminal matters:

Original Jurisdiction

Civil cases without limit as to the value of subject matter
Criminal cases involving capital punishment
Admiralty matters
Bankruptcy and company winding-up
Probate and administration of estates

Appellate Jurisdiction

Appeals from the Sessions Courts and Magistrates’ Courts
Appeals from the Penghulu’s Courts (in Peninsular Malaysia)

Composition

Each High Court is led by a Chief Judge and consists of Judicial Commissioners and High Court Judges.

Key Functions

Trial of Serious Offenses: Handling criminal cases punishable by death or life imprisonment
Civil Disputes: Adjudicating complex civil matters
Supervisory Role: Overseeing lower courts and tribunals
Judicial Review: Reviewing administrative actions and decisions
Special Powers: Issuing prerogative writs like habeas corpus, mandamus, prohibition, and certiorari

Significance

The High Courts play a crucial role in upholding the rule of law and ensuring access to justice. Their decisions shape legal precedents and contribute significantly to the development of Malaysian jurisprudence.

For specific information on High Court procedures or recent decisions, please consult legal professionals or official court resources.

Locations

The High Courts are located in various cities across Malaysia:

High Court in Malaya:

Kuala Lumpur (for Wilayah Persekutuan, Selangor, and Negeri Sembilan)
Johor Bahru (for Johor)
Penang (for Penang, Kedah, and Perlis)
Ipoh (for Perak)
Melaka (for Melaka)
Kota Bharu (for Kelantan)
Kuala Terengganu (for Terengganu)
Kuantan (for Pahang)

High Court in Sabah and Sarawak:

Kota Kinabalu (for Sabah)
Kuching (for Sarawak)
Miri (for northern Sarawak)