The Witness Protection (Amendment) Bill 2026 was tabled for its first reading in the Dewan Rakyat today, proposing stronger safeguards for witnesses including enhanced psychological support and expanded access to the witness protection programme.
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform) Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said tabled the Bill and said it will be presented for second reading during the current parliamentary sitting.
According to the Bill published on Parliament’s official portal, one of the key amendments will allow parents or legal guardians to apply for admission into the witness protection programme on behalf of witnesses who lack legal capacity, in addition to those under the age of 18.
The proposed amendments also introduce two new sections requiring participants, or individuals acting on their behalf, to sign a written agreement outlining the terms and conditions of protection and assistance, participants’ responsibilities and other related matters before a designated officer.
The Bill further provides for existing agreements between programme participants and the government to remain valid after the amended Act comes into force, allowing both parties to continue enjoying the rights and obligations provided under the legislation.
Another proposed amendment expands the forms of assistance available under the programme by including psychological support, such as counselling, as part of the protection and assistance that may be provided to participants.
