The Malaysian Bar has called for a comprehensive review of the Admiralty Jurisdiction Bill 2026, warning that the proposed legislation, in its current form, is inconsistent with international maritime standards and could weaken Malaysia’s position as a regional maritime legal hub.
In a statement, Malaysian Bar president Anand Raj expressed disappointment that the Bill, tabled for its first reading in Parliament on July 13, 2026, does not substantially adopt the legislative framework developed by the Bar after years of consultations with stakeholders.
According to the Bar, its proposed Admiralty Jurisdiction Bill was designed to establish a modern and comprehensive legal framework based on internationally recognised principles, drawing from the United Kingdom’s Senior Courts Act 1981, the International Convention Relating to the Arrest of Sea-Going Ships 1952, and the International Convention on Arrest of Ships 1999.
The Bar said aligning Malaysia’s admiralty laws with these established international standards would provide greater legal certainty and predictability for maritime stakeholders while strengthening the country’s attractiveness as a venue for resolving maritime disputes.
However, it warned that the Government’s version of the Bill could leave Malaysia in a weaker position than under the current legal framework.
“The Malaysian Bar is gravely concerned that the 2026 Bill may be worse than the current legal position,” the statement said.
It added that any departure from internationally recognised admiralty principles could create uncertainty in maritime disputes and reduce Malaysia’s competitiveness as a preferred maritime legal jurisdiction in the region.
The Bar welcomed the Government’s decision to refer the Bill to the Parliamentary Special Select Committee (PSSC), describing it as an opportunity for lawmakers to consider recommendations put forward by the legal profession and other maritime industry stakeholders.
It also stressed that the legislation should not become the subject of political or partisan considerations, given its significance to Malaysia’s maritime industry and legal framework.
Anand said Malaysia possesses the necessary attributes to become a leading maritime jurisdiction and that reforms should focus on enhancing legal certainty, facilitating maritime commerce and strengthening the administration of justice in admiralty and maritime matters.
It said a robust admiralty framework would ultimately serve the interests of shipowners, seafarers, charterers, cargo owners, financiers and insurers operating within Malaysia’s maritime sector.
