the solicitor general of malaysia - Attorney General's Chambers
the solicitor general of malaysia - Attorney General's Chambers
the solicitor general of malaysia - Attorney General's Chambers
Create successful ePaper yourself
Turn your PDF publications into a flip-book with our unique Google optimized e-Paper software.
First Printing, 2006<br />
Copyright <strong>Attorney</strong> General’s <strong>Chambers</strong> Malaysia, 2006<br />
All rights reserved. No part <strong>of</strong> this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any<br />
means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopy, recording or any information storage and retrieval<br />
system, without permission in writing from <strong>the</strong> <strong>Attorney</strong> General’s <strong>Chambers</strong> <strong>of</strong> Malaysia.<br />
Published in Malaysia by<br />
<strong>Attorney</strong> General’s <strong>Chambers</strong> Malaysia,<br />
Level 6, Block C3, Parcel C,<br />
Federal Government Administrative Centre,<br />
62512 Putrajaya.<br />
http://www.agc.gov.my<br />
Printed in Malaysia by<br />
GLOBAL PRINTERS SDN. BHD.<br />
No.19B, Wisma Global, Jalan TSB 1,<br />
Taman Perindustrian Sg. Buluh,<br />
Jalan Subang, 47000 Sg. Buluh,<br />
Selangor Darul Ehsan.<br />
Perpustakaan Negara Malaysia<br />
Cataloguing-in-Publication-Data<br />
ISSN: 1823-8394
From <strong>the</strong> desk <strong>of</strong> The <strong>Attorney</strong> General <strong>of</strong> Malaysia 1<br />
Message from The Solicitor General <strong>of</strong> Malaysia 2<br />
Address by The Head Of The International Affairs Division 3<br />
Clients’ Charter and Objectives 5<br />
Our Pr<strong>of</strong>ile 6<br />
Our Organization 8<br />
Our People 9<br />
Unit 1 - Maritime, Territorial Matters and Civil Aviation 10<br />
Unit 2 - International Trade and Finance 17<br />
Unit 3 - Human Rights and International Organizations 23<br />
Unit 4 - International Criminal Matters 28<br />
Unit 5 - Special Projects, Environment and Miscellaneous Matters 35<br />
Reports on Special Events<br />
• Hague Convention On Private International Law Seminar<br />
• Special Projects between Malaysia - Singapore 46<br />
Financial Statement 94<br />
Acknowledgements 95
from <strong>the</strong> desk <strong>of</strong><br />
THE ATTORNEY GENERAL OF MALAYSIA<br />
I am deeply honored to be given this opportunity to grace <strong>the</strong> foreword <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
inaugural issue <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> International Affairs Division’s Annual Report 2005.<br />
The International Affairs Division was formed on <strong>the</strong> 1st <strong>of</strong> June 2003.It is<br />
as a result <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> recognition <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> rapid expansion <strong>of</strong> international law and<br />
<strong>the</strong> complexity <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> international legal issues and <strong>the</strong> changing emphasis<br />
in its content.<br />
The main objectives <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Division are to study and analyze all relevant international treaties,<br />
conventions and o<strong>the</strong>r crucial instruments in determining whe<strong>the</strong>r Malaysia should sign, ratify<br />
and accede to such instruments. Subsequently advice on <strong>the</strong> harmonization and implementation<br />
measures be given, be it legislative or administrative.<br />
Extensive range <strong>of</strong> subject matter from maritime law to human rights to international trade to<br />
dispute settlement requires a high degree <strong>of</strong> knowledge, expertise and experience. Offi cers <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
International Affairs Division have been attending international negotiation and courses to enhance<br />
<strong>the</strong>ir ability and knowledge in <strong>the</strong>ir respective fi elds.<br />
1<br />
The <strong>of</strong>fi cers <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> International Affairs Division also conducted and attended seminars, workshop<br />
and lectures to give <strong>the</strong>m <strong>the</strong> necessary exposures and to enable <strong>the</strong>m to keep abreast <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
developments in <strong>the</strong> sphere <strong>of</strong> international law.<br />
This Annual Report covers <strong>the</strong> period from 1 January 2005 to 31 December 2005. This Report<br />
serves as a permanent record <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> work undertaken by <strong>the</strong> International Affairs Division for <strong>the</strong><br />
period in review. It is very informative, amply illustrated and at <strong>the</strong> same time enjoyable to read.<br />
Tan Sri Abdul Gani Patail<br />
<strong>Attorney</strong> General<br />
Malaysia.
message from<br />
THE SOLICITOR GENERAL OF MALAYSIA<br />
The International Affairs Division (IAD) came into being on <strong>the</strong> 1st <strong>of</strong> June<br />
2003 due to <strong>the</strong> need to have a custodian committed to <strong>the</strong> protection and<br />
advancement <strong>of</strong> Malaysia’s rights and interests in <strong>the</strong> international fora.<br />
International law has, since <strong>the</strong> inception <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Attorney</strong> General’s<br />
<strong>Chambers</strong>, been handled as a sub-set <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> advisory function <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
Advisory and International Division <strong>of</strong> <strong>Chambers</strong>. At one point in its history,<br />
international law matters were handled by just a couple <strong>of</strong> <strong>of</strong>fi cers from that<br />
Division. Suffi ce to say <strong>the</strong>re was no special focus or dedicated resources<br />
to managing emerging international law issues much less any degree <strong>of</strong><br />
specialization among its <strong>of</strong>fi cers.<br />
2<br />
With full Government support, <strong>the</strong> IAD was successfully established on 1 June 2003 with a strength <strong>of</strong> 27<br />
<strong>of</strong>fi cers <strong>of</strong> various grades and 22 staff. The prioritized areas <strong>of</strong> work were refl ected in <strong>the</strong> organization <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
Division into 5 specialized units, that is -<br />
(i)<br />
(ii)<br />
(iii)<br />
(iv)<br />
(v)<br />
<strong>the</strong> Maritime, Territorial Matters and Civil Aviation Unit;<br />
<strong>the</strong> Human Rights and International/Regional Organizations Unit;<br />
<strong>the</strong> International Trade and Finance Unit;<br />
<strong>the</strong> International Criminal Matters Unit; and<br />
<strong>the</strong> Environmental and Miscellaneous Matters Unit.<br />
The IAD was fur<strong>the</strong>r augmented through a re-organization that took effect on 1 September 2005 to facilitate<br />
fur<strong>the</strong>r specialization into areas such as extradition and mutual legal assistance in criminal matters. As <strong>of</strong><br />
1 September 2005, IAD’s strength has been increased to 72 <strong>of</strong>fi cers <strong>of</strong> various grades and 26 staff while<br />
international law work is divided among 8 specialized Units:<br />
(i) <strong>the</strong> Maritime, Territorial Matters and Civil Aviation Unit;<br />
(ii) <strong>the</strong> Human Rights and International/Regional Organizations Unit;<br />
(iii) <strong>the</strong> International Criminal Matters Unit;<br />
(iv) <strong>the</strong> Trade and International Finance Unit;<br />
(v) <strong>the</strong> Special Projects Unit;<br />
(vi) <strong>the</strong> Environmental, Space and Miscellaneous Matters Unit;<br />
(vii) <strong>the</strong> Mutual Assistance in Criminal Matters Unit; and<br />
(viii) <strong>the</strong> Extradition Unit.<br />
I would like to extend my heartiest congratulations to this Division for <strong>the</strong> timely production <strong>of</strong> this inaugural<br />
issue <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Annual Report which will serve as pro<strong>of</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> dedication and hard work <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>of</strong>fi cers and staff<br />
<strong>of</strong> this Division.<br />
Puan Sri Datuk Zaitun Zawiyah Puteh<br />
Solicitor-General<br />
Malaysia
address by<br />
THE HEAD OF<br />
THE INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS DIVISION<br />
The dearth <strong>of</strong> focus, resources and expertise in international law matters<br />
was distressingly magnifi ed with <strong>the</strong> September 11, 2001 attacks against<br />
<strong>the</strong> United States <strong>of</strong> America. As countries around <strong>the</strong> world scrambled<br />
to come to terms with <strong>the</strong> daring attacks, <strong>the</strong> <strong>Attorney</strong> General <strong>Chambers</strong><br />
(<strong>Chambers</strong>) much like its legal brethren elsewhere was called upon to<br />
provide immediate advice to <strong>the</strong> Government on <strong>the</strong> legal issues such<br />
as <strong>the</strong> appropriate classifi cation <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> attacks against <strong>the</strong> USA for <strong>the</strong><br />
purpose <strong>of</strong> determining an appropriate response by <strong>the</strong> United Nations and <strong>the</strong> international community.<br />
Belatedly it was recognized that <strong>Chambers</strong> had to initiate some positive moves to manage international<br />
law issues better.<br />
Immediate remedial action was initiated in 2001. The plan was to develop in-house specialization in<br />
international law by fi rstly establishing an International Affairs Division (IAD).<br />
On <strong>the</strong> 1st <strong>of</strong> June 2003, IAD was successfully established with a strength <strong>of</strong> 27 <strong>of</strong>fi cers <strong>of</strong> various<br />
grades and 22 staff. On 1st September 2005, <strong>the</strong> IAD was fur<strong>the</strong>r augmented through a re-organisation<br />
to facilitate fur<strong>the</strong>r specialization into areas such as extradition and mutual legal assistance in criminal<br />
matters. IAD’s strength has been increased to 72 <strong>of</strong>fi cers <strong>of</strong> various grades and 26 staff while international<br />
law work is divided among 8 specialized Units:<br />
3<br />
• <strong>the</strong> Maritime, Territorial Matters and Civil Aviation Unit;<br />
• <strong>the</strong> Human Rights and International/Regional Organizations Unit;<br />
• <strong>the</strong> International Criminal Matters Unit;<br />
• <strong>the</strong> Trade and International Finance Unit;<br />
• <strong>the</strong> Special Projects Unit;<br />
• <strong>the</strong> Environmental, Space and Miscellaneous Matters Unit;<br />
• <strong>the</strong> Mutual Assistance in Criminal Matters Unit; and<br />
• <strong>the</strong> Extradition Unit.<br />
Upon <strong>the</strong> establishment <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> IAD, <strong>the</strong> Division was immediately placed into full action to deal with<br />
international law issues in all its diversity and complexity. It was recognized <strong>the</strong>n and continued to be<br />
acknowledged now that it is not an easy task to achieve. However with full commitment and dedication <strong>of</strong><br />
all <strong>the</strong> <strong>of</strong>fi cers, <strong>the</strong> IAD has slowly but surely gained its due recognition and success.
The IAD have also obtained <strong>the</strong> full support and guidance from The Honorable <strong>Attorney</strong> General and The<br />
Honorable Solicitor General. Short, medium and long-term training programmes were put in place utilizing<br />
both in-house and local expertise as well as engaging experts from foreign training institutions such as <strong>the</strong><br />
University <strong>of</strong> Nottingham, United Kingdom and <strong>the</strong> University <strong>of</strong> Wollongong, Australia. In addition, smart<br />
partnership/ attachment programmes are being sourced with foreign agencies and legal fi rms to develop<br />
expertise in advocacy and international arbitration and mediation. Foreign language pr<strong>of</strong>i ciency is ano<strong>the</strong>r<br />
area <strong>the</strong> IAD are exploring since English is but one <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> international lingua franca. The goal is to establish<br />
a critical mass <strong>of</strong> in-house international law experts in <strong>the</strong> various fi elds by 2012.<br />
I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to <strong>the</strong> <strong>of</strong>fi cers and staff <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> IAD for all <strong>the</strong>ir hard work in<br />
producing a very informative and commendable Annual Report. Their commitment, creativity and passion to<br />
produce this reports refl ects <strong>the</strong> exemplifi ed nature <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>of</strong>fi cers and staff <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> IAD.<br />
‘ Vous avez fait du bon travail.’<br />
4<br />
Azailiza Mohd Ahad<br />
Head<br />
International Affairs Division
CLIENTs CHARTER AND OBJECTIVES<br />
Clients Charter <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Attorney</strong> General’s <strong>Chambers</strong><br />
“We are committed to provide legal service <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> highest quality to clients and we always act<br />
according to <strong>the</strong> Constitution and laws effi ciently, justly and equitably.”<br />
Objective <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Attorney</strong> General’s <strong>Chambers</strong><br />
To provide legal services <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> highest quality, effi ciently, fairly and equitably in accordance with <strong>the</strong><br />
Constitution and laws.<br />
Functions <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Attorney</strong> General’s <strong>Chambers</strong><br />
• To give legal advise and views to <strong>the</strong> Malaysian Government in accordance with <strong>the</strong><br />
international law and principles taking into account <strong>the</strong> policy <strong>of</strong> Malaysian Government,<br />
public policy, interest and domestic laws.<br />
• To advise <strong>the</strong> Federal and State Government on all legal matters including syariah laws.<br />
• To draft all legislation for <strong>the</strong> Federal Government.<br />
• To provide prosecution instructions to all related law enforcement agencies for criminal<br />
cases.<br />
5<br />
• To represent <strong>the</strong> Government in civil cases.<br />
• To revise and reprint <strong>the</strong> laws <strong>of</strong> Malaysia and to undertake law reform in identifi ed areas.<br />
Clients Charter <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> International Affairs Division<br />
“Committed to <strong>the</strong> protection and advancement <strong>of</strong> Malaysia’s rights and interests in <strong>the</strong> international<br />
fora, to <strong>the</strong> rendering <strong>of</strong> legal advice to <strong>the</strong> Government <strong>of</strong> Malaysia in accordance with international<br />
law and principles and to ensuring that Malaysia’s international obligations are undertaken and<br />
implemented in accordance with national law and policies.”<br />
Objectives <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> International Affairs Division<br />
• To protect and improve Malaysia’s rights and interests in <strong>the</strong> international arena.<br />
• To give legal advice and views to <strong>the</strong> Malaysian government in accordance with <strong>the</strong><br />
international law and principles taking into account <strong>the</strong> policy <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Malaysian government,<br />
public interest and domestic laws.<br />
• To ensure that Malaysia’s international obligation under any agreements, treaties and<br />
conventions which have been signed, agreed upon, ratifi ed or participated by Malaysian<br />
government are carried out in accordance with <strong>the</strong> Malaysian law and policies.
our pr<strong>of</strong>ile<br />
INTRODUCTION<br />
The International Affairs Division was previously part <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
Advisory and International Division. Following <strong>the</strong> <strong>Chambers</strong>’<br />
restructuring process, <strong>the</strong> Advisory and International<br />
Division was divided into two separate divisions namely<br />
<strong>the</strong> Advisory Division and <strong>the</strong> International Affairs Division<br />
with effect from June 2003. The reorganization <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
International Affairs Division as a separate Division within<br />
<strong>the</strong> <strong>Attorney</strong> General’s <strong>Chambers</strong> was in recognition <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
rapid expansion <strong>of</strong> international law and <strong>the</strong> complexity <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> international legal issues, and <strong>the</strong> changing emphasis<br />
in its content. Mr. John Louis O’ Hara was <strong>the</strong> fi rst<br />
Head <strong>of</strong> this Division until his appointment as a Judicial<br />
Commissioner <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> High Court in September 2005. He<br />
was succeeded by <strong>the</strong> <strong>the</strong>n Deputy Head <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Division,<br />
Madam Azailiza Mohd. Ahad.<br />
Our Current Head <strong>of</strong> International Affairs Division, Mdm. Azailiza Mohd. Ahad.<br />
6<br />
From Left: The <strong>Attorney</strong> General, <strong>the</strong> Honourable Tan Sri Abdul Gani<br />
Patail and <strong>the</strong> Deputy Head <strong>of</strong> International Affairs Division, Mr. Stanley<br />
Clement Augustin.<br />
Our Former Head <strong>of</strong> International Affairs Division, Mr. John Louis<br />
O’Hara.<br />
The Division is tasked to undertake comprehensive studies<br />
<strong>of</strong> all relevant international treaties, conventions and o<strong>the</strong>r<br />
pertinent instruments in determining <strong>the</strong> acceptability <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong>se instruments for <strong>the</strong> purposes <strong>of</strong> signing, ratifi cation<br />
and/or accession. Therefore, if ratifi ed or acceded to, this<br />
Division would also provide advice on harmonisation and<br />
implementation measures, be it legislative or administrative.<br />
The international instruments cover an extensive range <strong>of</strong><br />
subject matter, from human rights to international trade law<br />
to maritime and space law, and <strong>of</strong>ten require a high degree<br />
<strong>of</strong> knowledge and expertise.<br />
RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE DIVISION<br />
The Division’s responsibilities entail advising Federal<br />
Ministries and Agencies on <strong>the</strong> implications <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
international obligations undertaken by Malaysia and <strong>the</strong><br />
measures that are required to fully implement <strong>the</strong>m, in<br />
particular where <strong>the</strong> enactment <strong>of</strong> legislation is required<br />
to fulfi l those obligations. In this area, <strong>the</strong> Division works<br />
closely with <strong>the</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r Divisions in <strong>the</strong> <strong>Attorney</strong> General’s<br />
<strong>Chambers</strong> to tap into <strong>the</strong>ir expertise on Civil, Criminal<br />
and Syariah matters as well as <strong>the</strong>ir legislative drafting<br />
skills. In undertaking <strong>the</strong>se responsibilities, <strong>the</strong> paramount
importance is to protect Malaysia’s sovereignty and integrity in accordance<br />
with <strong>the</strong> Federal Constitution and prevailing laws and also to preserve noninterference<br />
with Malaysia’s domestic affairs.<br />
Offi cers from <strong>the</strong> Division actively participate in <strong>the</strong> negotiations <strong>of</strong> international<br />
treaties both bilateral and multilateral wherein <strong>the</strong>y are called upon to advise<br />
<strong>the</strong> Malaysian delegation on legal matters under discussion. The Division’s<br />
<strong>of</strong>fi cers are <strong>of</strong>ten invited to be part <strong>of</strong> Malaysian delegations to negotiations<br />
<strong>of</strong> international treaties, joint commission meetings, bilateral talks, United<br />
Nations expert group meetings and many o<strong>the</strong>r international fora.<br />
The Division is also a reference point for advice on matters related to<br />
international law. The Legal Advisers <strong>of</strong> Ministries and Departments also<br />
submit <strong>the</strong> bilateral and multilateral agreements that <strong>the</strong>ir respective<br />
Ministries and agencies are proposing to enter into for <strong>the</strong> consideration and<br />
scrutiny <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Division. State Legal Advisers are similarly required to submit<br />
such agreements for <strong>the</strong> approval <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Division where <strong>the</strong> agreements<br />
involve foreign parties as <strong>the</strong>se come within <strong>the</strong> purview <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> external affairs<br />
constitutional mandate <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Federal Government. Although international<br />
legal issues have a tendency to interrelate and overlap, <strong>the</strong> Division operates<br />
optimally by being organized into eight units based on subject-matter:<br />
The International Affairs Division is presently headed by Madam Azailiza<br />
Mohd. Ahad and is assisted by Mr. Stanley Clement Augustin.<br />
7
8<br />
our organization
our people<br />
Offi cers <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> International Affairs Division attending <strong>the</strong> Division’s fi rst conference for 2005 at <strong>the</strong> Nexus Resort Karambunai, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah<br />
from 3 May to 6 May 2005.<br />
9<br />
The dedicated staff <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> International Affairs Division.<br />
The International Affairs Division Meeting for 2005 was held at Mutiara<br />
Taman Negara, Pahang from 17 November to 20 November 2005.
unit 1 - maritime, territorial<br />
matters and civil aviation<br />
The Maritime, Territorial Matters and Civil Aviation Unit deals<br />
with all international law issues concerning matters on <strong>the</strong><br />
Law <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Sea and maritime boundary, land boundary<br />
demarcation, overlapping claims in <strong>the</strong> South China Sea,<br />
United Nations Convention on <strong>the</strong> Law <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Sea 1982<br />
(UNCLOS), merchant shipping, piracy and coast guard.<br />
The subject matter under <strong>the</strong> purview <strong>of</strong> this Unit are as<br />
enumerated below:<br />
• Maritime issues and maritime delimitation;<br />
10<br />
• Overlapping claims issues in <strong>the</strong> South China<br />
Sea;<br />
• UNCLOS;<br />
• Shipping;<br />
• Maritime enforcement;<br />
• Civil aviation related matters; and<br />
• Research and consultations on land border and<br />
territorial disputes before decision is made to<br />
refer to international tribunals/ dispute settlement<br />
mechanisms.<br />
Anugerah Khidmat Cemerlang 2005.<br />
Course on International Boundary Delimitation by <strong>the</strong> United Kingdom Hydrographic<br />
Offi ce (UKHO) from 5 – 9 December 2005.<br />
In particular, this Unit is involved and is responsible for<br />
<strong>the</strong> following areas <strong>of</strong> work:<br />
• Providing legal advice on issues namely -<br />
• Implementation <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> provisions <strong>of</strong><br />
UNCLOS;<br />
• Piracy under <strong>the</strong> Regional Cooperation<br />
Agreement on Anti-Piracy in Asia<br />
(RECAAP);<br />
• Matters under <strong>the</strong> purview <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
International Maritime Organization<br />
(IMO);<br />
• Matters related to merchant shipping<br />
under <strong>the</strong> Merchant Shipping<br />
Ordinance 1952;<br />
• Matters related to civil aviation<br />
under <strong>the</strong> International Civil Aviation<br />
Convention (ICAO);<br />
• Matters related to <strong>the</strong> enforcement<br />
<strong>of</strong> Malaysia’s Maritime Enforcement<br />
Agency Act 2004;<br />
• Matters relating to Malaysia’s<br />
participation in <strong>the</strong> Sulu Sulawesi<br />
Marine Ecoregion (SSME)<br />
Programme;
• Matters related to <strong>the</strong> joint survey<br />
and demarcation <strong>of</strong> international<br />
land boundary between Malaysia and<br />
Indonesia;<br />
• Matters related to <strong>the</strong> joint survey<br />
and demarcation <strong>of</strong> international<br />
land boundary between Malaysia and<br />
Thailand; and<br />
• Matters concerning UNESCO’s<br />
Convention on Underwater Cultural<br />
Heritage.<br />
• Providing legal advice on maritime and land<br />
boundary issues such as overlapping claims in <strong>the</strong><br />
South China Sea (which are still being negotiated)<br />
before submission to international third party<br />
adjudication or dispute settlement mechanism;<br />
• Representing <strong>the</strong> <strong>Attorney</strong> General’s <strong>Chambers</strong><br />
at inter-agency meetings and advising <strong>the</strong><br />
Government <strong>of</strong> Malaysia on <strong>the</strong> aforementioned<br />
matters;<br />
11<br />
• Representing <strong>the</strong> <strong>Attorney</strong> General’s <strong>Chambers</strong> at<br />
preparatory meetings and advising <strong>the</strong> Government<br />
<strong>of</strong> Malaysia in negotiation involving maritime<br />
and land boundary issues before submission to<br />
international third party adjudication or dispute<br />
settlement mechanism;<br />
• Representing <strong>the</strong> <strong>Attorney</strong> General’s <strong>Chambers</strong> for<br />
<strong>the</strong> protection <strong>of</strong> Malaysia’s interests internationally<br />
and advice on Malaysia’s international obligations<br />
at international meetings such as Meeting <strong>of</strong><br />
State Parties <strong>of</strong> UNCLOS, Meeting <strong>of</strong> State Parties<br />
<strong>of</strong> ICAO and IMO Meetings;<br />
• Carrying out <strong>the</strong> harmonization <strong>of</strong> UNCLOS to<br />
ensure Malaysia’s compliance with <strong>the</strong> same by<br />
amending current domestic legislation or enacting<br />
new legislation such as <strong>the</strong> following:<br />
• Maritime Zones Bill 2004;<br />
• Merchant Shipping Act 2004;
• Exclusive Economic Zone (Amendment)<br />
Bill 2001;<br />
• Continental Shelf (Amendment) Bill<br />
2001;<br />
• Environmental Quality Act 1974; and<br />
• Fisheries Act 1985.<br />
ACTIVITIES AND PROGRAMMES FOR THE YEAR 2005<br />
For <strong>the</strong> year 2005, Unit I has undertaken a number <strong>of</strong><br />
activities and programmes in addition to <strong>the</strong> normal<br />
scope <strong>of</strong> work under <strong>the</strong> Unit. Fur<strong>the</strong>r <strong>the</strong>reto, this Unit<br />
also liaises with Unit V (Special Projects, Environment and<br />
Miscellaneous Matters) to safeguard Malaysia’s interest<br />
in <strong>the</strong> event that negotiations as regards to land and<br />
maritime boundary matters fail and <strong>the</strong> matter proceeds<br />
to international third party adjudication. Amongst <strong>the</strong> main<br />
activities and programmes that were undertaken are as<br />
follows:<br />
1. Seminars, Courses and Workshops<br />
1.1. Offi cers from Unit 1 attended <strong>the</strong> following<br />
programmes:<br />
12<br />
(a)<br />
Briefi ng on <strong>the</strong> Convention on International<br />
Interests in Mobile Equipment (Cape Town<br />
Convention 2001)<br />
• The above briefi ng was held on 15 April<br />
2005 at Penerbangan Malaysia Berhad,<br />
Menara TM, Kuala Lumpur.<br />
• The main aim <strong>of</strong> this briefi ng was to give<br />
an insight into <strong>the</strong> whole framework and<br />
workings <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Cape Town Convention<br />
2001 and <strong>the</strong> Protocol to <strong>the</strong> Convention<br />
on International Interests in Mobile<br />
Equipment on Matters Specifi c to<br />
Aircraft Equipment (Aircraft Protocol<br />
2001), in particular <strong>the</strong> complex system<br />
<strong>of</strong> declarations under both instruments.
(b)<br />
International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO)<br />
Regional Seminar/ Workshop for National Safety<br />
Oversight Coordinators (NSOC), Bangkok,<br />
Thailand<br />
• This seminar/ workshop was held on 18<br />
- 19 June 2005 in Bangkok, Thailand.<br />
• The seminar/ workshop, though primarily<br />
targeted at NSOC, was also extended<br />
to o<strong>the</strong>r relevant state agencies to<br />
familiarise <strong>the</strong>m with <strong>the</strong> process and<br />
implementation <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> comprehensive<br />
system approach for <strong>the</strong> conduct <strong>of</strong><br />
safety oversight audit <strong>of</strong> which every<br />
ICAO Member State must comply to <strong>the</strong><br />
prescribed standard and recommended<br />
practices.<br />
1.2 The following courses were attended by Offi cers <strong>of</strong><br />
Unit I and Unit V jointly as <strong>the</strong> subject matter handled<br />
are interconnected:<br />
13<br />
(a)<br />
Training Workshop on Boundary Negotiation<br />
and Dispute Resolution organized by <strong>the</strong><br />
International Boundary Research Unit (IBRU),<br />
University Of Durham, United Kingdom<br />
• The above workshop that was held on<br />
27 – 30 June 2005 at <strong>the</strong> University<br />
<strong>of</strong> Durham was organized by IBRU, an<br />
exclusive world research centre that<br />
<strong>of</strong>fers, amongst o<strong>the</strong>rs, a range <strong>of</strong><br />
consultancy services, information and<br />
expertise on all aspects <strong>of</strong> boundary<br />
delimitation, demarcation, management<br />
and dispute resolution. IBRU also runs<br />
regular training workshops on practical<br />
aspects <strong>of</strong> boundary making, including<br />
maritime boundary delimitation,<br />
negotiating international boundaries,<br />
preparing for litigation and arbitration,<br />
geographical information for boundary<br />
management, and archive research for<br />
boundary dispute resolution.
14<br />
(b) Advanced Course in International Legal<br />
Frameworks for <strong>the</strong> Prevention <strong>of</strong> Marine<br />
Pollution and <strong>the</strong> Conservation <strong>of</strong> Biodiversity<br />
within Oceans Part I: Conserving Marine<br />
Biodiversity<br />
• This course was organized by <strong>the</strong><br />
University <strong>of</strong> Nottingham and was held<br />
on 1 - 5 August 2005 at <strong>the</strong> <strong>Attorney</strong><br />
General’s <strong>Chambers</strong> Malaysia.<br />
• Amongst o<strong>the</strong>rs, <strong>the</strong> course focused<br />
on UNCLOS 1982 and <strong>the</strong> modern<br />
techniques <strong>of</strong> ocean management.<br />
The course was intended to impart on<br />
participants knowledge on <strong>the</strong> Law <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
Sea pertaining to <strong>the</strong> key environmental<br />
principles, <strong>the</strong> modern tools <strong>of</strong> ocean<br />
management, <strong>the</strong> regional regimes,<br />
<strong>the</strong> alternative regional institutional<br />
frameworks, <strong>the</strong> East Asian Seas Region<br />
and biodiversity conservation.<br />
(c)<br />
(d)<br />
Advanced Course in International Legal Frameworks<br />
for <strong>the</strong> Prevention <strong>of</strong> Marine Pollution and <strong>the</strong><br />
Conservation <strong>of</strong> Biodiversity within Oceans Part<br />
II: Preventing Marine Pollution<br />
• The course was again organized by <strong>the</strong><br />
University <strong>of</strong> Nottingham and was held<br />
on 12 - 15 September 2005 at <strong>the</strong><br />
<strong>Attorney</strong> General’s <strong>Chambers</strong> Malaysia.<br />
• Amongst o<strong>the</strong>rs, <strong>the</strong> course addressed<br />
<strong>the</strong> steps and procedures to be<br />
undertaken in preventing marine<br />
pollution under <strong>the</strong> UNCLOS 1982 in<br />
which <strong>the</strong> topics included land-based<br />
sources <strong>of</strong> marine pollution, dumping<br />
at sea, introduction to <strong>the</strong> safety <strong>of</strong><br />
shipping and <strong>the</strong> role <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> fl ag state,<br />
port state control and civil liability for<br />
environmental damage at sea.<br />
Seminar on Maritime Law<br />
• This seminar was held on 20 - 22<br />
September 2005 at <strong>the</strong> Judicial and<br />
Legal Training Institute, Bangi, Selangor.<br />
• Amongst o<strong>the</strong>rs, <strong>the</strong> course provided<br />
a broad outlook on various aspects <strong>of</strong><br />
Maritime Law, in particular a <strong>general</strong><br />
overview <strong>of</strong> UNCLOS.<br />
(e)<br />
Briefi ng by <strong>the</strong> Malaysian Centre for Remote<br />
Sensing (MACRES)<br />
• This briefi ng was held on 14 November<br />
2005 at MACRES, Jalan Tun Ismail,<br />
Kuala Lumpur. The briefi ng covered <strong>the</strong><br />
purposes, capabilities and technical<br />
aspects <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> application <strong>of</strong> remote<br />
sensing in Malaysia.<br />
Offi cers from <strong>the</strong> International Affairs Division attending a talk on “Remote Sensing” at MACRES,<br />
Kuala Lumpur on 14 November 2005.
(f)<br />
Course by <strong>the</strong> United Kingdom Hydrographic Offi ce (UKHO) on<br />
International Boundary Delimitation<br />
• The course was organized by <strong>the</strong> UKHO at <strong>the</strong> <strong>Attorney</strong><br />
General’s <strong>Chambers</strong> on 5 - 9 December 2005.<br />
• The course sought to address several maritime issues<br />
such as maritime zones, rules <strong>of</strong> passage, charts,<br />
baselines, satellite imageries, and <strong>the</strong> geodetic principles,<br />
<strong>the</strong> <strong>general</strong> principles <strong>of</strong> delimitation, <strong>the</strong> role <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
technical experts under UNCLOS and <strong>the</strong> Law <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Sea<br />
in <strong>general</strong>.<br />
(g)<br />
Advance Course in International Negotiations<br />
2. Lectures<br />
• This course was held on 19 - 23 December 2005 in<br />
ILKAP in which <strong>the</strong>oretical and practical aspects <strong>of</strong><br />
international negotiations were addressed.<br />
2.1. Offi cers from Unit I, with <strong>the</strong> cooperation <strong>of</strong> Unit V, had also participated<br />
in delivering lectures at <strong>the</strong> Institute <strong>of</strong> Diplomacy and Foreign<br />
Relations (IDFR) and ILKAP. The lectures were attended by participants<br />
from various agencies, which mainly consisted <strong>of</strong> diplomatic <strong>of</strong>fi cers,<br />
<strong>of</strong>fi cers from <strong>the</strong> Judicial and Legal Service, <strong>the</strong> Malaysian Maritime<br />
Enforcement Agency and <strong>the</strong> Police Force.<br />
15<br />
2.2. The lectures were on <strong>the</strong> following subject matter:<br />
(a)<br />
Law <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Sea<br />
• The above lecture was delivered at IDFR on 6 September<br />
2005 and at ILKAP on 27 September 2005, which was<br />
mainly on <strong>the</strong> introduction <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Law <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Sea.<br />
• The lecture was meant to give a basic understanding <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
Law <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Sea, which included <strong>the</strong> historical background <strong>of</strong><br />
maritime law, <strong>the</strong> maritime regimes, maritime enforcement<br />
in Malaysia and <strong>the</strong> legal instruments pertaining to <strong>the</strong> law<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> sea in particular UNCLOS.<br />
(b)<br />
Malaysia’s Experience at <strong>the</strong> International Court <strong>of</strong> Justice (ICJ)<br />
• The above lecture was delivered at IDFR on 7 September<br />
2005.
• The said lecture covered, amongst<br />
o<strong>the</strong>rs, Malaysia’s experience in <strong>the</strong><br />
International Court <strong>of</strong> Justice in <strong>the</strong> Case<br />
Concerning <strong>the</strong> Sovereignty over Pulau<br />
Ligitan and Pulau Sipadan (Indonesia/<br />
Malaysia) and an advisory opinion on <strong>the</strong><br />
Legal Consequences <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Construction<br />
<strong>of</strong> a Wall in <strong>the</strong> Occupied Palestinian<br />
Territory.<br />
3. Meetings and Conferences<br />
1.1 Offi cers from this Unit had attended and participated<br />
in giving legal comments and assisting relevant<br />
Malaysian agencies in <strong>the</strong> meetings and conferences<br />
pertaining to –<br />
16<br />
(a)<br />
(b)<br />
(c)<br />
(d)<br />
(e)<br />
International Conference <strong>of</strong> State Parties<br />
to <strong>the</strong> International Convention for <strong>the</strong><br />
Suppression <strong>of</strong> Unlawful Acts Against <strong>the</strong><br />
Safety <strong>of</strong> Maritime Navigation, 1988 and<br />
<strong>the</strong> Protocol for <strong>the</strong> Suppression <strong>of</strong> Unlawful<br />
Acts against <strong>the</strong> Safety Of Fixed Platforms<br />
Located on <strong>the</strong> Continental Shelf, 1988;<br />
The Declaration on <strong>the</strong> Conduct <strong>of</strong> Parties in<br />
<strong>the</strong> South China Sea (DOC);<br />
IMO Sponsored Meeting on <strong>the</strong> Straits <strong>of</strong><br />
Malacca and Straits <strong>of</strong> Singapore, Jakarta<br />
and Indonesia;<br />
Tripartite Technical Experts Group (TTEG)<br />
Meeting on <strong>the</strong> Safety <strong>of</strong> Navigation and<br />
Environmental Protection <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Straits and<br />
Maritime Navigation; and<br />
Jakarta Meeting on Marine Electronic<br />
Highway in <strong>the</strong> Straits <strong>of</strong> Malacca.
UNIT 2 - INTERNATIONAL TRADE<br />
AND FINANCE<br />
The International Trade and Finance Unit deals mainly with<br />
issues in relation to international trade and fi nance matters.<br />
The scope <strong>of</strong> work requires this Unit to work closely with <strong>the</strong><br />
Ministry <strong>of</strong> International Trade and Industry (MITI) and <strong>the</strong><br />
Ministry <strong>of</strong> Finance (MOF). This Unit’s scope <strong>of</strong> work includes<br />
multilateral trade arrangements (World Trade Organization<br />
(WTO) and Organization <strong>of</strong> Islamic Conferences (OIC)),<br />
regional (Association <strong>of</strong> Sou<strong>the</strong>ast Asian Nations (ASEAN),<br />
Asia-Pacifi c Economic Cooperation (APEC) and D8) and<br />
bilateral trade arrangements (Bilateral Investment Treaties<br />
and Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with countries such as<br />
<strong>the</strong> United States <strong>of</strong> America (USA), New Zealand, Japan<br />
and Free Trade Agreements under <strong>the</strong> purview <strong>of</strong> ASEAN).<br />
17<br />
Japan – Malaysia Economic Partnership Agreement (JMEPA) Meeting, 2005.<br />
FTA negotiations are <strong>the</strong> latest trend in <strong>the</strong> modern trade scene.<br />
Countries are now strongly pursuing bilateral trade agreements<br />
to maximise <strong>the</strong> benefi ts <strong>of</strong> a bilateral negotiations on issues<br />
which were not resolved in <strong>the</strong> international forum such as<br />
WTO and ASEAN. The <strong>of</strong>fi cers from this Unit are tasked with<br />
advising relevant Government agencies in relation to Malaysia’s<br />
commitments and obligations under <strong>the</strong> various International<br />
Trade and Finance Agreements and <strong>the</strong>reafter are involved in<br />
<strong>the</strong> drafting <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> various legal instruments.<br />
This Unit is tasked in ensuring that Malaysia honours its<br />
obligations and commitments under <strong>the</strong> international trade and<br />
fi nance rules and at <strong>the</strong> same time safeguarding Malaysia’s<br />
interest domestically and at <strong>the</strong> international forum.
ACTIVITIES AND PROGRAMMES FOR THE YEAR 2005<br />
1. Conclusion <strong>of</strong> Agreements and Negotiations<br />
1.1. Japan Economic Partnership Agreement<br />
18<br />
The Prime Minister <strong>of</strong> Malaysia, H.E. Dato’ Seri<br />
Abdullah Ahmad Badawi and <strong>the</strong> Prime Minister <strong>of</strong><br />
Japan, H.E. Junichiro Koizumi signed <strong>the</strong> Japan-<br />
Malaysia Economic Partnership Agreement (JMEPA)<br />
on 13 December 2005, Malaysia’s fi rst bilateral free<br />
trade agreement with ano<strong>the</strong>r country. The JMEPA<br />
negotiations took 2 long years <strong>of</strong> intense negotiations<br />
to complete. The JMEPA negotiations commenced in<br />
2003 and were fi nally concluded at <strong>the</strong> end <strong>of</strong> 2005.<br />
The <strong>of</strong>fi cers from this Unit actively participated in<br />
<strong>the</strong> negotiations, advising <strong>the</strong> Malaysian delegation<br />
and <strong>the</strong>reafter in <strong>the</strong> drafting <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> JMEPA text.<br />
The JMEPA encompasses trade in goods, trade in<br />
services and investment protection. The JMEPA also<br />
covers a wide range <strong>of</strong> economic activities including<br />
intellectual property protection, enhancement <strong>of</strong><br />
business environment and bilateral cooperation in<br />
capacity building.<br />
1.2 Ongoing Bilateral FTA negotiations<br />
Currently Malaysia is involved in three on-going<br />
bilateral FTA negotiations with countries namely New<br />
Zealand, Australia and Pakistan. These negotiations<br />
commenced in 2005 and are expected to be<br />
concluded in 2006. The <strong>of</strong>fi cers from this Unit and<br />
<strong>the</strong> Legal Advisers attached to MITI are involved in<br />
<strong>the</strong> negotiations and drafting <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> texts for <strong>the</strong>se<br />
FTAs. Malaysia and USA have agreed to commence<br />
FTA negotiations in June 2006 and to be concluded<br />
by <strong>the</strong> end <strong>of</strong> 2007.
1.3 ASEAN Bilateral FTA Negotiations<br />
Malaysia is also actively involved in <strong>the</strong> ASEAN<br />
bilateral FTA negotiations with countries such as New<br />
Zealand, Australia, Korea and India. Offi cers from this<br />
Unit assist <strong>the</strong> Legal Advisers from MITI in negotiating<br />
<strong>the</strong> ASEAN Bilateral FTAs.<br />
2. Seminars, Courses and Workshops<br />
(a)<br />
Workshop on Negotiating FTAs<br />
(b)<br />
This seminar was jointly organised by MITI and <strong>the</strong><br />
Department <strong>of</strong> Foreign Affairs and Trade, Australia.<br />
The workshop was held from 23 - 27 January 2005<br />
to provide <strong>the</strong> participants with a good introduction<br />
to selected issues arising in free trade negotiations,<br />
especially on tariff elimination, aspects <strong>of</strong> trade<br />
facilitation, trade in services and investment.<br />
Advanced Course in Intellectual Property Law: A<br />
Global and Comparative Law Perspective<br />
(c)<br />
Seminar on Competition Policy<br />
This seminar was organised by <strong>the</strong> Ministry <strong>of</strong><br />
Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs on 27 May<br />
2005 with a view to formulate a National Fair Trade<br />
Policy.<br />
19<br />
This course was organized by <strong>the</strong> University <strong>of</strong><br />
Nottingham and held from 9 - 13 May 2005. Various<br />
international copyright, trademark, and patent<br />
regimes such as <strong>the</strong> Agreement on Trade-Related<br />
Aspects <strong>of</strong> Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPs), <strong>the</strong><br />
Madrid Protocol, <strong>the</strong> WIPO Copyright Treaty and <strong>the</strong><br />
WIPO Performances and Phonograms Treaty were<br />
discussed. The course also delved into <strong>the</strong> issues<br />
related to enforcement which has become one <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
main problems in curbing world wide piracy.<br />
(d)<br />
Third World Network Regional Seminar on FTAs<br />
This seminar was held from 26 - 28 August 2005<br />
at Boulevard Hotel, Mid Valley City, Kuala Lumpur<br />
to discuss <strong>the</strong> current and ever growing trend <strong>of</strong><br />
countries strongly pursuing bilateral trade agreements<br />
in an attempt to maximise <strong>the</strong> benefi ts <strong>of</strong> a bilateral<br />
negotiations on issues which were not resolved in <strong>the</strong><br />
WTO multilateral. The seminar analysed <strong>the</strong> cause<br />
and factor as well as <strong>the</strong> impact and consequence<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> countries actions by <strong>the</strong>se countries and also<br />
<strong>the</strong> impact and consequence to <strong>the</strong> neighbouring<br />
countries.<br />
(e)<br />
Mediator Skills Course<br />
This course was held from 26 - 30 September 2005<br />
at ILKAP and focuses on <strong>the</strong> skills and procedures<br />
needed when mediating a dispute. The course<br />
involves training <strong>the</strong> participants in mediation styles<br />
by way <strong>of</strong> practical exercises. The objective <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
course is to hone skills in mediation and <strong>the</strong>reafter<br />
develop effective mediation techniques.
(f)<br />
Workshop on (New or Changes in) U.S. Laws and<br />
Regulations on Intellectual Property Rights<br />
The workshop which was held at Singapore from<br />
29 November - 2 December 2005 is among one <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> intellectual property co-operation programmes<br />
between ASEAN and <strong>the</strong> United States Patent and<br />
Trademarks Offi ce (USPTO). The purpose <strong>of</strong> this<br />
workshop is to provide <strong>the</strong> participants with <strong>the</strong><br />
latest development <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> intellectual property rights<br />
laws and regulations in <strong>the</strong> USA. This exposure is<br />
to benefi t <strong>of</strong>fi cers dealing with negotiations in FTA<br />
with USA in matters relating to intellectual property<br />
rights.<br />
(g)<br />
Kuala Lumpur Islamic Finance Forum Banking<br />
20<br />
The forum was organised by <strong>the</strong> Centre for Research<br />
and Training (CERT) from 6 - 8 December 2005<br />
at Mandarin Oriental Hotel, Kuala Lumpur. The<br />
participants and <strong>the</strong> speakers at this forum discussed<br />
<strong>the</strong> various concepts under <strong>the</strong> Islamic banking and<br />
fi nance regimes such as Mudharabah, Murabahah,<br />
Musyarakah and Ijarah. There are different schools<br />
<strong>of</strong> thoughts on <strong>the</strong>se issues which differ from one<br />
Islamic country to <strong>the</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r. The participants and <strong>the</strong><br />
speakers attempted to harmonise views on many<br />
aspects <strong>of</strong> Islamic banking and fi nance. The forum<br />
also focused on <strong>the</strong> application <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> principles<br />
<strong>of</strong> Islamic banking and fi nance in today’s world<br />
especially with regard to <strong>the</strong> issue on <strong>the</strong> usage <strong>of</strong><br />
credit cards, insurance and hire purchase.<br />
3. Meetings<br />
The <strong>of</strong>fi cers from <strong>the</strong> Unit have actively participated<br />
in many inter-agency discussions and meetings by<br />
providing legal advice to <strong>the</strong> relevant Government<br />
agencies. The following are some <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> meetings<br />
attended in 2005:
International<br />
Meetings Date Venue<br />
42nd Session <strong>of</strong> United Nations Commission on International Trade<br />
Law (UNCITRAL)<br />
Working Group 2 (Arbitration and Conciliation)<br />
8th ASEAN-India Trade Negotiating Committee<br />
Trade Negotiating Group Meeting<br />
Dispute Settlement Body Special Session Meeting<br />
10 - 14 January 2005 New York<br />
23 - 25 February 2005<br />
28 Feb -1 March 2005<br />
4 - 5 April 2005<br />
Jakarta,<br />
Indonesia<br />
Geneva,<br />
Switzerland<br />
Meeting on Malaysia-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement 9 - 10 May 2005 Tokyo, Japan<br />
Third ASEAN-Republic <strong>of</strong> Korea FTA Negotiations<br />
Malaysia-Pakistan FTA<br />
2nd Trade Negotiation Committee Meeting<br />
Malaysia-New Zealand FTA Negotiations<br />
43rd Session <strong>of</strong> UNCITRAL Working Group 2<br />
(Arbitration and Conciliation)<br />
6 - 11 June 2005<br />
6 - 9 September 2005<br />
9 - 11 June 2005<br />
4 - 5 July 2005<br />
18 - 21 October 2005<br />
Singapore<br />
Seoul, Korea<br />
Islamabad,<br />
Pakistan<br />
Wellington,<br />
New Zealand<br />
3 - 7 October 2005 Vienna, Austria<br />
WTO 6th Ministerial Conference 13 - 18 December 2005 Hong Kong<br />
21<br />
Domestic<br />
Meetings Date Venue<br />
Malaysia-Japan Meeting Economic Partnerships Agreement<br />
Negotiations<br />
7 January 2005<br />
17 February 2005<br />
3 March 2005<br />
13 June 2005<br />
23 June 2005<br />
MITI<br />
Malaysia-US Joint Counsel Meeting under<br />
Malaysia-US Trade and Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA)<br />
10 January 2005 MITI<br />
Meeting on Liberalization <strong>of</strong> Legal Services with Bar Council 29 - 30 March 2005<br />
<strong>Attorney</strong><br />
General’s<br />
<strong>Chambers</strong><br />
2 nd Meeting <strong>of</strong> Working Group Technical Committee on Trade<br />
Services<br />
9 June 2005 MITI<br />
Long-term Strategy for Trade Services Liberalization in Malaysia 15 June 2005 MITI<br />
Trade Policy Review for Malaysia 17 June 2005 MITI<br />
Malaysia-Australia FTA Negotiations 3 - 5 August 2005 MITI<br />
Malaysia-New Zealand FTA Negotiations 21 - 25 November 2005 MITI
UNIT 3 - human rights and<br />
international organizations<br />
This Unit is responsible for rendering legal advice on issues<br />
relating to human rights, international organizations and<br />
bioethics. These responsibilities are carried out in <strong>the</strong><br />
following manner:<br />
• Conducting studies and analysis on <strong>the</strong> provisions<br />
<strong>of</strong> international conventions and treaties to<br />
determine <strong>the</strong> feasibility for Malaysia to become a<br />
party <strong>the</strong>reto;<br />
The 6th Asean Law Ministers Meeting (ALAWMM) held at Hanoi, Vietnam from 19<br />
– 20 September 2005.<br />
• Analysis on <strong>the</strong> relevant domestic laws and <strong>the</strong><br />
Federal Constitution to ensure compliance with<br />
<strong>the</strong> provisions <strong>of</strong> international conventions and<br />
treaties;<br />
• Preparing Cabinet Papers and this <strong>Chambers</strong>’<br />
comments for Cabinet Papers submitted by <strong>the</strong><br />
Ministries;<br />
• Drafting and vetting agreements, Letters or<br />
Memorandum <strong>of</strong> Understanding (MoU) and o<strong>the</strong>r<br />
legal documents;<br />
23<br />
• Attending multilateral and bilateral meetings and<br />
negotiations held and organized by international,<br />
regional and national bodies agencies;<br />
Opening Ceremony <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> 10th Asean Senior Law Offi cials Meeting (ASLOM) held<br />
at Hanoi, Vietnam on 16 September 2005.<br />
• Rendering opinion on matters referred to <strong>the</strong><br />
<strong>Attorney</strong> General’s <strong>Chambers</strong> by <strong>the</strong> Legal<br />
Advisers <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Ministries.<br />
Malaysia, by virtue <strong>of</strong> being a member <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> United<br />
Nations, has subscribed to <strong>the</strong> philosophy, concepts and<br />
norms provided by <strong>the</strong> Universal Declaration <strong>of</strong> Human<br />
Rights (UDHR), which sets out <strong>the</strong> minimum and common<br />
standard <strong>of</strong> human rights for all peoples and all nations.<br />
Apart from <strong>the</strong> UDHR, subject to <strong>the</strong> provisions <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
Malaysian Constitution and <strong>the</strong> applicable laws and policies,<br />
Malaysia also adheres to <strong>the</strong> principles laid down in various<br />
international human rights instruments, which include <strong>the</strong><br />
International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR),<br />
<strong>the</strong> International Covenant on Economic, Social and<br />
Cultural Rights (ICESCR), <strong>the</strong> International Convention on<br />
<strong>the</strong> Elimination <strong>of</strong> All Forms <strong>of</strong> Racial Discrimination (CERD),<br />
<strong>the</strong> Convention against Torture and o<strong>the</strong>r Cruel, Inhuman or<br />
Degrading Treatment or Punishment (CAT), <strong>the</strong> Convention
on <strong>the</strong> Rights <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Child (CRC), and <strong>the</strong> Convention on <strong>the</strong><br />
Elimination <strong>of</strong> All Forms <strong>of</strong> Discrimination Against Women<br />
(CEDAW). As <strong>of</strong> December 2005, Malaysia is a party to <strong>the</strong><br />
following human rights instruments:<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Convention on <strong>the</strong> Rights <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Child;<br />
Convention on <strong>the</strong> Elimination <strong>of</strong> All Forms <strong>of</strong><br />
Discrimination Against Women;<br />
Supplementary Convention on <strong>the</strong> Elimination <strong>of</strong><br />
All Forms <strong>of</strong> Discrimination Against Women;<br />
Convention on <strong>the</strong> Nationality <strong>of</strong> Married Women;<br />
Convention on <strong>the</strong> Prevention and Punishment <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> Crime <strong>of</strong> Genocide.<br />
24<br />
The Unit is also responsible in coordinating <strong>the</strong> participation<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>of</strong>fi cers from this <strong>Chambers</strong> to represent <strong>the</strong><br />
Government <strong>of</strong> Malaysia at various meetings <strong>of</strong> international<br />
and regional bodies. The main international organizations<br />
which Malaysia has been participating in are, for instance,<br />
<strong>the</strong> United Nations, OIC, ASEAN and Commonwealth.<br />
With respect to bioethics, this Unit has been involved in<br />
<strong>the</strong> drafting <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Human Reproductive Cloning Bill, an Act<br />
to prohibit <strong>the</strong> placing in a body <strong>of</strong> a human or a body <strong>of</strong><br />
an animal or an artifi cial apparatus <strong>of</strong> a human embryo<br />
which has been created o<strong>the</strong>rwise than by fertilization. In<br />
addition, <strong>of</strong>fi cers from this Unit also attended meetings <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> National Committee on Human Cloning, <strong>the</strong> national<br />
body established by <strong>the</strong> Government to coordinate all<br />
issues relating to <strong>the</strong> subject <strong>of</strong> cloning <strong>of</strong> human being.
ACTIVITIES AND PROGRAMMES FOR THE YEAR 2005<br />
For <strong>the</strong> year 2005, <strong>the</strong> Human Rights and International Organizations<br />
Unit has undertaken a number <strong>of</strong> activities and programmes to ensure<br />
that Malaysia’s interest are put across at <strong>the</strong> international fora in<br />
addition to <strong>the</strong> normal scope <strong>of</strong> work under <strong>the</strong> Unit.<br />
Seminar/ Workshop<br />
Title Date Venue<br />
Workshop on Convention on <strong>the</strong> Protection <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Diversity <strong>of</strong><br />
Cultural Contents and Artistic Expressions<br />
26 May 2005<br />
Crown Princess City<br />
Hotel,<br />
Kuala Lumpur<br />
An Introduction to <strong>the</strong> Hague Conventions<br />
Seminar on Fostering <strong>the</strong> Rule <strong>of</strong> Law in Cross-Border/<br />
Transnational Civil and Commercial Relations in <strong>the</strong> Asia-Pacifi c<br />
22 - 24 August 2005 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah<br />
Lectures<br />
25<br />
Programmes Date Venue<br />
Seminar on Human Rights from <strong>the</strong> Islamic Perspective 14 February 2005 ILKAP<br />
Diplomatic Training Course<br />
(International Participants Programme) 10 March 2005<br />
Institute <strong>of</strong> Diplomacy<br />
and Foreign<br />
Relations, Kuala<br />
Lumpur<br />
Multilateral Diplomacy 2005 11 August 2005 ILKAP<br />
International Law Seminar<br />
• An Overview <strong>of</strong> International Humanitarian Law<br />
• An Overview <strong>of</strong> Human Rights Law<br />
17 August 2005 IDFR, Kuala Lumpur
Meetings<br />
International<br />
Meetings Date Venue<br />
Meeting on UN Inter-Sessional Open Ended Working Group<br />
Mandated to Elaborate a Draft Legally Binding Normative<br />
Instrument for <strong>the</strong> Protection <strong>of</strong> All Persons from Enforced<br />
Disappearance<br />
31 January –<br />
11 February 2005<br />
Geneva, Switzerland<br />
South East Asian Advanced Programme on Human Rights 7 - 18 March 2005 Bangkok, Thailand<br />
61 st Session <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> United Nation Commission on Human Rights<br />
28 March –<br />
22 April 2005<br />
Geneva, Switzerland<br />
Ad Hoc Committee Meeting on <strong>the</strong> Scope <strong>of</strong> Legal Protection<br />
under <strong>the</strong> Convention on <strong>the</strong> Safety <strong>of</strong> United Nations and<br />
Associated Personnel<br />
11 - 15 April 2005 New York, USA<br />
26<br />
OIC Senior Legal Offi cials Meeting 30 April - 2 May 2005 Jeddah, Arab Saudi<br />
32 nd Session <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Islamic Conference <strong>of</strong> Foreign Ministers 28 - 30 June 2005 Sana’a, Yemen<br />
44 th Session <strong>of</strong> Asian-African Legal Consultative Organization<br />
(AALCO)<br />
6 th Ad Hoc Committee to consider Proposals For A<br />
Comprehensive and Integral International Convention to Promote<br />
and Protect <strong>the</strong> Rights and Dignity <strong>of</strong> Persons with Disabilities<br />
27 July - 1 August 2005 Nairobi, Kenya<br />
1 - 12 August 2005 New York, USA<br />
10 th ASEAN Senior Law Offi cials Meeting and 6 th ASEAN Law<br />
Ministers Meeting<br />
16 - 18 September<br />
2005<br />
Hanoi, Vietnam<br />
Meeting <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Sixth Committee <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> 60 th Session <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> United<br />
Nations General Assembly<br />
3 October - 9 November<br />
2005<br />
New York, USA<br />
Meeting <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commonwealth Law Ministers and Senior Offi cials 17 - 20 October 2005 Ghana<br />
10 th Meeting <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Intergovernmental Group <strong>of</strong> Experts on <strong>the</strong><br />
Follow up to <strong>the</strong> Cairo Declaration on Human Rights in Islam<br />
14 - 16 November 2005 Jeddah, Arab Saudi
Domestic<br />
Meetings Date Venue<br />
First Meeting to update <strong>the</strong> Malaysian Draft Report Convention on<br />
<strong>the</strong> Rights <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Child<br />
17 January 2005<br />
Ministry <strong>of</strong> Women,<br />
Family and Community<br />
Development<br />
(MWFCD)<br />
27<br />
Discussion on 3 rd Draft Report for CEDAW on Law Aspects 1 April 2005 MWFCD<br />
National Committee Meeting on Human Cloning 26 May 2005 Ministry <strong>of</strong> Health<br />
2 nd Agencies Meeting to Coordinate <strong>the</strong> ASEAN Activities on National<br />
Level<br />
1 July 2005<br />
Ministry <strong>of</strong> Foreign<br />
Affairs<br />
Malaysian Annual Conference between Malaysia-Thailand (Prime<br />
Minister Malaysia and Prime Minister Thailand on 7-8 August 2005)<br />
22 July 2005<br />
Ministry <strong>of</strong> Foreign<br />
Affairs<br />
30 th Agencies Meeting on Human Rights 9 August 2005<br />
2 nd Meeting <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Head <strong>of</strong> Committee for <strong>the</strong> Third Report on<br />
CEDAW<br />
Ministry <strong>of</strong> Foreign<br />
Affairs<br />
9 September 2005 MWFCD<br />
3 rd Meeting <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Working Group for Countries Intelligence 14 October 2005<br />
National Security<br />
Division, Prime<br />
Minister’s Department<br />
3 rd Agencies Meeting to coordinate <strong>the</strong> activities <strong>of</strong> ASEAN<br />
Cooperation at <strong>the</strong> National Level<br />
Preparatory Meeting For OIC Extraordinary Summit on 6 - 8<br />
December 2005<br />
28 October 2005<br />
25 November 2005<br />
Ministry <strong>of</strong> Foreign<br />
Affairs<br />
Ministry <strong>of</strong> Foreign<br />
Affairs
UNIT 4 - international criminal<br />
matters<br />
Signing Ceremony <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Treaty on Mutual Assistance in Criminal<br />
Matters and Treaty on Extradition between Malaysia and Australia held at<br />
Putrajaya on 15 November 2005.<br />
The Solicitor General <strong>of</strong> Malaysia and <strong>the</strong> <strong>of</strong>fi cers from <strong>the</strong> International<br />
Affairs Division attending <strong>the</strong> Commonwealth Law Ministers Meeting<br />
held at Accra, Ghana from 17 – 20 October 2005.<br />
The International Criminal Matters Unit deals with all forms<br />
<strong>of</strong> international and transnational crime, international<br />
cooperation in criminal matters, disarmament and nonproliferation<br />
<strong>of</strong> Weapons <strong>of</strong> Mass Destruction, <strong>the</strong> Laws <strong>of</strong><br />
War and International Humanitarian Law.<br />
28<br />
The Unit deals with <strong>the</strong> implementation <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> various<br />
international criminal conventions such as <strong>the</strong> 13 United<br />
Nations Counter-Terrorism Conventions and Protocols, <strong>the</strong><br />
United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized<br />
Crime and its Related Protocols, <strong>the</strong> United Nations<br />
Convention against Corruption, <strong>the</strong> Rome Statute <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
International Criminal Court and <strong>the</strong> Geneva Conventions<br />
<strong>of</strong> 1949 and its two Additional Protocols. It also assists <strong>the</strong><br />
relevant Ministries and agencies on <strong>the</strong>ir implementation <strong>of</strong><br />
multifarious disarmament and non-proliferation treaties.<br />
Among <strong>the</strong> tasks undertaken by <strong>the</strong> Unit are advising<br />
<strong>the</strong> Ministries and agencies when <strong>the</strong>se international<br />
instruments come up for consideration for signature,<br />
ratifi cation or accession. It also prepares <strong>Chambers</strong>’<br />
comments to Memorandums seeking Cabinet approval<br />
on <strong>the</strong>se matters. In many cases, <strong>the</strong> <strong>of</strong>fi cers will also be<br />
involved in <strong>the</strong> drafting <strong>of</strong> any implementing legislation that<br />
may be required such as <strong>the</strong> Chemical Weapons Convention<br />
Act 2005 and <strong>the</strong> Aviation Offences (Amendment) Act 2005.<br />
In <strong>the</strong> case <strong>of</strong> new or proposed international treaties, <strong>the</strong><br />
Unit will also be involved in <strong>the</strong> negotiation process such as<br />
<strong>the</strong> concluded Rome Statute <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> International Criminal<br />
Court, <strong>the</strong> United Nations Convention against Corruption<br />
and <strong>the</strong> United Nations Convention for <strong>the</strong> Suppression<br />
<strong>of</strong> Acts <strong>of</strong> Nuclear Terrorism and <strong>the</strong> ongoing discussions<br />
on <strong>the</strong> draft Comprehensive Convention on International<br />
Terrorism.
Offi cers <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Unit attend international and regional<br />
meetings where <strong>the</strong> matters under its purview are discussed.<br />
When participating at such meetings, <strong>the</strong> <strong>of</strong>fi cers are also<br />
responsible to ensure that Malaysia’s views and positions<br />
on issues are advanced and placed on record. The <strong>of</strong>fi cers<br />
are also responsible to ensure that Malaysia maintains<br />
consistent positions on issues in <strong>the</strong> various fora. These<br />
views and positions are normally prepared in advance<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> meeting and have been approved by <strong>the</strong> <strong>Attorney</strong><br />
General. Upon return, <strong>the</strong> <strong>of</strong>fi cers are required to submit<br />
written reports to <strong>the</strong> <strong>Attorney</strong> General and <strong>the</strong> Head <strong>of</strong> The<br />
International Affairs Division to facilitate follow-up actions.<br />
International cooperation in criminal matters is a more<br />
specialized area <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Unit’s work and is primarily focused<br />
on extradition and mutual assistance in criminal matters.<br />
The Unit leads negotiations on bilateral and multilateral<br />
extradition and mutual assistance in criminal matters<br />
treaties. Malaysia has extradition treaties with Thailand,<br />
Indonesia, <strong>the</strong> United States <strong>of</strong> America and Australia. The<br />
extradition treaty with Australia was concluded in November<br />
2005. On mutual assistance in criminal matters, Malaysia<br />
is a party to <strong>the</strong> multilateral ASEAN-wide Treaty on Mutual<br />
Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters, which was initiated<br />
by Malaysia. Malaysia also concluded a Treaty on Mutual<br />
Assistance in Criminal Matter with Australia in November<br />
2005. Malaysia is also currently negotiating extradition and<br />
mutual assistance in criminal matters treaties with several<br />
o<strong>the</strong>r countries.<br />
29<br />
In addition, <strong>the</strong> Unit serves as <strong>the</strong> Secretariat for <strong>the</strong><br />
multilateral Treaty on Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal<br />
Matters. It successfully organized <strong>the</strong> two Meetings <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>Attorney</strong>s General on a Mutual Assistance in Criminal<br />
Matters Treaty in Kota Kinabalu from 30 June 2003 - 2<br />
July 2003 and in Kuala Lumpur from 24 - 25 May 2004<br />
where <strong>the</strong> Treaty was negotiated as well as <strong>the</strong> Signing<br />
Ceremony for <strong>the</strong> concluded Treaty in Kuala Lumpur on<br />
29 November 2004. The Secretariat also organized <strong>the</strong><br />
Meeting <strong>of</strong> Senior Offi cials on <strong>the</strong> Treaty on Mutual Legal<br />
Assistance in Criminal Matters in Kuala Lumpur from 11 to<br />
13 July 2005 and initiated <strong>the</strong> Model Request Form and<br />
Model Checklist which was adopted by <strong>the</strong> Senior Offi cials<br />
at that Meeting.
The Unit is also responsible for <strong>the</strong> preparation <strong>of</strong> Malaysia’s<br />
extradition and mutual assistance in criminal matters<br />
requests to foreign states. In this regard, <strong>the</strong> Unit assists <strong>the</strong><br />
<strong>Attorney</strong> General, who is <strong>the</strong> designated Central Authority<br />
under <strong>the</strong> Mutual Assistance in Criminal Matters Act 2002,<br />
to carry out his duties under <strong>the</strong> Act. The Unit also advises<br />
on legal issues arising from <strong>the</strong> requests and represents <strong>the</strong><br />
requesting countries during <strong>the</strong> execution <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir requests<br />
in Malaysia. From time to time, <strong>the</strong> <strong>of</strong>fi cers from this Unit<br />
also appear in courts, ei<strong>the</strong>r assisting <strong>the</strong> <strong>of</strong>fi cers from <strong>the</strong><br />
Prosecution Division or acting alone, to deal with various<br />
applications or matters under <strong>the</strong> Extradition Act 1992 and<br />
<strong>the</strong> Mutual Assistance in Criminal Matters Act 2002.<br />
The requests for extradition and mutual assistance in<br />
criminal matters dealt with by <strong>the</strong> Unit in <strong>the</strong> period between<br />
2002 to 2005 are summarized in <strong>the</strong> Tables:<br />
30
(a)<br />
Extradition<br />
Category Year /Number Total<br />
2002 2003 2004 2005<br />
Requests by Malaysia - - - - 0<br />
Requests to Malaysia - 1 9 2 12<br />
Note:<br />
Requests to Malaysia<br />
Settled : 4<br />
Pending : 8<br />
(a)<br />
Mutual Assistance in Criminal Matters<br />
Category Year/ Number Total<br />
2002 2003 2004 2005<br />
Requests by Malaysia - 1 2 4 7<br />
Requests to Malaysia - - 12 14 26<br />
31<br />
Note: Requests to Malaysia Note: Requests by Malaysia<br />
Settled : 10 Settled : 3<br />
Pending : 16 Pending : 4<br />
ACTIVITIES AND PROGRAMMES FOR THE YEAR 2005<br />
For <strong>the</strong> year 2005, <strong>the</strong> <strong>of</strong>fi cers from this Unit participated<br />
as lecturers and/or participants in various international and<br />
national meetings, conferences, seminars, workshops and<br />
courses, <strong>the</strong> summary <strong>of</strong> which can be found on <strong>the</strong> next<br />
page.
Seminars<br />
Title Date Venue<br />
ASEAN Europe Meeting Anti-Money Laundering Project and<br />
Mutual Legal Assistance Training<br />
15 - 17 February 2005<br />
Seminar on Combating Human Traffi cking in Asia 15 March 2005<br />
Seminar on Bio-Weapons<br />
31 May – 2 June<br />
2005<br />
The Legend Hotel,<br />
Kuala Lumpur<br />
Malaysian American<br />
Commission Educational<br />
Exchange, Kuala Lumpur<br />
(MACEE)<br />
Kuala Lumpur<br />
Seminar on International Law<br />
26 – 28 September<br />
2005<br />
Judicial and Legal Service<br />
Training Institute (ILKAP)<br />
Courses And Workshops<br />
Title Date Venue<br />
32<br />
‘Theory <strong>of</strong> Counter Terrorism Recognition and Multilateral<br />
Collaboration for Combating Terrorism’, SEARCCT<br />
17 – 19 January 2005<br />
South East Asian Regional<br />
Centre for Counterterrorism<br />
(SEARCCT),<br />
Kuala Lumpur<br />
Informal Workshop on Regional Security Elements 27 January 2005 Kuala Lumpur<br />
Commonwealth Working Group on Asset Repatriation<br />
30 March - 1 April 2005<br />
&<br />
29 June – 1 July 2005<br />
Regional Course on Arms Smuggling 31 March 2005<br />
Advanced Course in International Intellectual Property Law: A<br />
Global and Comparative Law Perspective<br />
Police Course; Crime Prevention and Terrorism for <strong>the</strong><br />
Directors <strong>of</strong> Prosecution <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Pacifi c Ocean Countries<br />
9 – 13 May 2005<br />
22 June 2005<br />
Advocacy Skills 25 – 29 July 2005<br />
Commonwealth<br />
Secretariat, Marlborough<br />
House, London,<br />
United Kingdom<br />
Royal Malaysia Police<br />
College<br />
<strong>Attorney</strong> General’s<br />
<strong>Chambers</strong><br />
<strong>Attorney</strong> General’s<br />
<strong>Chambers</strong><br />
Judicial and Legal Service<br />
Training Institute (ILKAP)<br />
Course on Terrorism Crisis Management 7 September 2005 Lumut, Perak<br />
Mediator Skills Course<br />
26 – 29 September<br />
2005<br />
Negotiation Skills Training 30 September 2005<br />
Advanced Negotiation Course<br />
19 – 23 December<br />
2005<br />
Judicial and Legal Service<br />
Training Institute (ILKAP)<br />
Judicial and Legal Service<br />
Training Institute (ILKAP)<br />
Judicial and Legal Service<br />
Training Institute (ILKAP)
Meetings/ Visits<br />
Meetings Date Venue<br />
Inter-Governmental Expert Group Meeting to Prepare a<br />
Draft Model Bilateral Agreement on Disposal <strong>of</strong> Confi scated<br />
Proceeds <strong>of</strong> Crime Covered by <strong>the</strong> United Nations Convention<br />
against Transnational Organized Crime and <strong>the</strong> United<br />
Nations Convention against Illicit Traffi c in Narcotic Drugs and<br />
Psychotropic Substances <strong>of</strong> 1988<br />
26 - 28 January 2005 Vienna, Austria<br />
6th Session <strong>of</strong> Export Control Working Group 27 January 2005<br />
Meeting to Discuss <strong>the</strong> Status <strong>of</strong> Forces Agreement between<br />
Malaysia and France<br />
9 - 11 March 2005<br />
Visit by <strong>the</strong> Honourable <strong>Attorney</strong> General <strong>of</strong> Australia 27 April 2005<br />
Discussion on Mutual Legal Assistance with India 28 April 2005<br />
Negotiations between Malaysia and Australia on a Treaty on<br />
Extradition and a Treaty on Mutual Assistance in Criminal<br />
Matters<br />
Meeting <strong>of</strong> Senior Offi cials on <strong>the</strong> Treaty on Mutual Legal<br />
Assistance in Criminal Matters<br />
13 - 17 June 2005<br />
11 - 13 July 2005<br />
Ministry <strong>of</strong> Foreign Affairs<br />
(MOFA)<br />
Ministry <strong>of</strong> Defense,<br />
Kuala Lumpur<br />
<strong>Attorney</strong> General’s<br />
<strong>Chambers</strong><br />
<strong>Attorney</strong> General’s<br />
<strong>Chambers</strong><br />
<strong>Attorney</strong> General’s<br />
<strong>Chambers</strong><br />
The Regent,<br />
Kuala Lumpur<br />
2 nd China-ASEAN Prosecutors-General Conference 15 - 17 September 2005 Bangkok, Thailand<br />
Sixtieth Session <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Sixth Committee Meeting <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> United<br />
Nations General Assembly<br />
Visit by The Honourable Judge Phillipe Kirsch, President <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
International Criminal Court<br />
30 September- 9<br />
November 2005<br />
3 October 2005<br />
New York,<br />
United States <strong>of</strong> America<br />
<strong>Attorney</strong> General’s<br />
<strong>Chambers</strong><br />
Commonwealth Law Ministers Meeting 17 – 20 October 2005 Accra, Ghana<br />
Visit by The Honourable <strong>Attorney</strong> General <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> United States <strong>of</strong><br />
America<br />
Fourth Session <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Assembly <strong>of</strong> State Parties to <strong>the</strong> Rome<br />
Statute <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> International Criminal Court<br />
17 November 2005<br />
28 November –<br />
3 December 2005<br />
ASEM Prosecutors-General Conference 9 - 13 December 2005<br />
Mandarin Oriental Hotel,<br />
Kuala Lumpur<br />
The Hague,<br />
The Ne<strong>the</strong>rlands<br />
Shenzhen, People’s<br />
Republic <strong>of</strong> China<br />
33
unit 5 - special projects, environment<br />
and miscellaneous matters<br />
This Unit covers two important subject matters, which can<br />
be specifi ed as -<br />
• Special Projects; and<br />
• Environment and Miscellaneous Matters.<br />
Special Projects<br />
The Signing Ceremony for <strong>the</strong> Settlement Agreement on <strong>the</strong> Case Concerning<br />
Land Reclamation by Singapore In and Around The Straits <strong>of</strong> Johor.<br />
Special Projects deals with international legal issues related<br />
to matters pertaining to land and maritime boundary and<br />
territorial disputes between Malaysia and o<strong>the</strong>r states.<br />
These issues are pending or brought before international<br />
third party adjudication bodies, amongst o<strong>the</strong>rs, <strong>the</strong><br />
International Court <strong>of</strong> Justice (ICJ), Arbitration under Annex<br />
VII <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> United Nations Convention on <strong>the</strong> Law <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Sea<br />
1982 (Annex VII Arbitral Tribunal), International Tribunal<br />
for Law <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Sea (ITLOS) and <strong>the</strong> Permanent Court <strong>of</strong><br />
Arbitration (PCA). It also handles matters submitted for<br />
resolution at <strong>the</strong> International Centre for Settlement <strong>of</strong><br />
Investment Disputes (ICSID).<br />
In <strong>the</strong> context <strong>of</strong> Special Projects, this Unit handles and is<br />
responsible for <strong>the</strong> following matters:<br />
35<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Providing legal advice on matters relating to <strong>the</strong><br />
maritime boundary and territorial disputes;<br />
Undertaking legal, historical and archival research<br />
domestically and internationally in all aspects <strong>of</strong><br />
maritime boundary and territorial disputes for <strong>the</strong><br />
purpose <strong>of</strong> preparing and streng<strong>the</strong>ning <strong>the</strong> case<br />
for <strong>the</strong> Government <strong>of</strong> Malaysia;<br />
Representing <strong>the</strong> <strong>Attorney</strong> General’s <strong>Chambers</strong><br />
(AGC) in <strong>the</strong> inter-agency meetings for <strong>the</strong> purpose<br />
<strong>of</strong> preparing Malaysia’s position in resolving <strong>the</strong><br />
maritime boundary and territorial disputes;
36<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Representing <strong>the</strong> AGC and <strong>the</strong> Government <strong>of</strong><br />
Malaysia for meetings with foreign States for <strong>the</strong><br />
resolution <strong>of</strong> disputes diplomatically before fur<strong>the</strong>r<br />
action is undertaken to resolve <strong>the</strong> dispute before<br />
an international third party adjudication;<br />
Making legal preparations for trial before an<br />
international third party adjudication;<br />
Representing <strong>the</strong> AGC and <strong>the</strong> Government <strong>of</strong><br />
Malaysia at <strong>the</strong> hearing before international third<br />
party adjudication bodies such as <strong>the</strong> ICJ, ITLOS,<br />
Annex VII Arbitral Tribunal, PCA and ICSID in<br />
relation to issues which involve disputes between<br />
Malaysia and o<strong>the</strong>r foreign States. Offi cers<br />
from <strong>the</strong> Unit were fully involved in <strong>the</strong> recently<br />
concluded dispute on <strong>the</strong> Case Concerning Land<br />
Reclamation by Singapore in and around <strong>the</strong><br />
Straits <strong>of</strong> Johor between Malaysia and Singapore<br />
before ITLOS and Annex VII Tribunal as well as<br />
<strong>the</strong> Advisory Opinion on <strong>the</strong> Legal Consequences<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Construction <strong>of</strong> a Wall by Israel in <strong>the</strong><br />
Occupied Palestinian Territory before <strong>the</strong> ICJ;<br />
<br />
<br />
Collaborating with domestic and international<br />
experts in <strong>the</strong>ir respective fi elds to assist <strong>the</strong> AGC<br />
to render effective, complete and comprehensive<br />
legal advice in matters with respect to maritime<br />
boundary and territorial disputes; and<br />
Providing legal advice on o<strong>the</strong>r international legal<br />
disputes such as civil disputes between Malaysia<br />
and foreign States/individuals.<br />
Environment and Miscellaneous Matters<br />
With regard to environmental and miscellaneous matters,<br />
this Unit deals with international legal issues related to<br />
matters pertaining to <strong>the</strong> environment, outer space, private<br />
international law and any o<strong>the</strong>r matter not under <strong>the</strong> purview<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r Units in <strong>the</strong> International Affairs Division.<br />
This Unit handles and is responsible for <strong>the</strong> following<br />
matters:<br />
<br />
<br />
International laws and treaties on <strong>the</strong> environment,<br />
outer space, private international law involving<br />
family, civil and commercial matters; for example<br />
<strong>the</strong> Hague Conference on Private International<br />
Law (HCPIL), including <strong>the</strong> taking <strong>of</strong> evidence and<br />
<strong>the</strong> legalization <strong>of</strong> foreign public documents;<br />
Vetting <strong>of</strong> legal documents such as Memorandum<br />
<strong>of</strong> Understanding (MOUs), bilateral and multilateral<br />
agreements and/or instruments on cooperation<br />
in various fi elds between Malaysia and o<strong>the</strong>r<br />
countries;
Study <strong>of</strong> international treaties concerning <strong>the</strong><br />
environment, outer space, private international law<br />
and o<strong>the</strong>r matters and making recommendations<br />
on Malaysia’s participation;<br />
Study opinions, feedbacks, comments, advice and<br />
suggestions on international issues concerning<br />
<strong>the</strong> abovementioned matters;<br />
Assisting in drafting relevant laws to implement<br />
Malaysia’s obligations under international<br />
treaties;<br />
Assisting in reviewing and amending domestic<br />
legislation to ensure compliance with Malaysia’s<br />
obligations at <strong>the</strong> international level;<br />
Participating in seminars, workshops, meetings,<br />
discussions or negotiations, at <strong>the</strong> international<br />
or regional level, or with o<strong>the</strong>r countries<br />
or international organizations, in particular<br />
negotiations on <strong>the</strong> proposal to develop a treaty<br />
or an international document; and<br />
Negotiating bilateral and multilateral agreements<br />
on matters concerning <strong>the</strong> environment, outer<br />
space, private international law and o<strong>the</strong>r<br />
international legal matters.<br />
37<br />
Apart from <strong>the</strong> above, <strong>the</strong> <strong>of</strong>fi cers from this unit are also<br />
required to deliver lectures concerning international<br />
law including those on special projects, environment<br />
and outer space laws at ILKAP, and various Ministries,<br />
departments and agencies.<br />
ACTIVITIES AND PROGRAMMES FOR THE YEAR 2005<br />
For <strong>the</strong> year 2005, this Unit has undertaken a number<br />
<strong>of</strong> activities and programmes in addition to <strong>the</strong> normal<br />
scope <strong>of</strong> work under <strong>the</strong> Unit. With regards to territorial<br />
and maritime disputes between Malaysia and o<strong>the</strong>r States,<br />
this Unit is also actively involved in <strong>the</strong> work with Unit 1<br />
(Maritime, Territorial Matters and Civil Aviation). Amongst<br />
<strong>the</strong> main activities and programmes that were undertaken<br />
are as follows:
1. Seminars, Courses and Workshops<br />
1.1 Offi cers <strong>of</strong> Unit V had undergone <strong>the</strong> following<br />
courses, seminars and workshops in 2005:<br />
(a)<br />
Advanced Course in International Intellectual<br />
Property Law: A Global and Comparative Law<br />
Perspective<br />
• The course was organized by <strong>the</strong> University<br />
<strong>of</strong> Nottingham and held on 9 - 13 May<br />
2005 at <strong>the</strong> AGC.<br />
• The course focused on <strong>the</strong> recent<br />
developments in International Intellectual<br />
Property and <strong>of</strong> which, numerous related<br />
conventions were studied and compared.<br />
(b)<br />
Seminar on Persistent Organic Pollutants<br />
38<br />
• The seminar was held on 24 - 25 May<br />
2005 at <strong>the</strong> IOI Resort, Putrajaya.<br />
• The seminar presented <strong>the</strong> Draft<br />
National Implementation Plans (NIP) for<br />
<strong>the</strong> management <strong>of</strong> Persistent Organic<br />
Pollutants (POP) in Malaysia. The seminar<br />
was also held to get <strong>the</strong> endorsement<br />
from <strong>the</strong> National Coordinating Committee<br />
and stakeholders for <strong>the</strong> Draft NIP for <strong>the</strong><br />
management <strong>of</strong> POP in Malaysia.<br />
(c)<br />
International Law Seminar, United Nations<br />
Offi ce in Geneva<br />
• The seminar was held on 11 - 29 July<br />
2005 in Geneva.
• The seminar focused on issues <strong>of</strong><br />
international law pertaining to <strong>the</strong> recent<br />
developments related to <strong>the</strong> International<br />
Law Commission.<br />
(d)<br />
Talk on <strong>the</strong> British Outer Space Act and Space<br />
Debris<br />
• The talk was given by Mr. Richard Tremayne<br />
Smith, Head <strong>of</strong> Space Transportation and<br />
Space Environment, British National Space<br />
Centre on 20 July 2005 and 22 July 2005<br />
at <strong>the</strong> National Space Agency, Putrajaya<br />
and <strong>the</strong> National Space Centre at Sungai<br />
Lang, Banting, Selangor respectively.<br />
• Salient provisions in <strong>the</strong> British Outer<br />
Space Act were highlighted during <strong>the</strong> talk<br />
with comparisons being made to <strong>the</strong> laws<br />
<strong>of</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r states on space activities. The<br />
subject <strong>of</strong> Space Debris was covered from<br />
<strong>the</strong> aspect <strong>of</strong> understanding <strong>the</strong> problems<br />
related to space debris and existing<br />
guidelines to govern <strong>the</strong>m.<br />
39<br />
(e)<br />
Seminar on <strong>the</strong> Sustainable Utilisation <strong>of</strong> Biodiversity<br />
and <strong>the</strong> Related Issues on Biosafety in An Islamic<br />
Perspective.<br />
• The seminar was jointly organized<br />
by <strong>the</strong> Ministry <strong>of</strong> Natural Resources<br />
and Environment and <strong>the</strong> Malaysian<br />
Biotechnology Information Centre at <strong>the</strong><br />
Environment Institute <strong>of</strong> Malaysia, campus<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> National University <strong>of</strong> Malaysia,<br />
Bangi on 28 July 2005.<br />
• The objectives <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> seminar were as<br />
follows:<br />
(i) To showcase <strong>the</strong> perspective <strong>of</strong><br />
Islam on <strong>the</strong> sustainable utilisation<br />
<strong>of</strong> biodiversity through biotechnology<br />
and related issues such as biosafety,<br />
patenting <strong>of</strong> life forms and Intellectual<br />
Property Rights among stakeholders;
(ii) To identify issues <strong>of</strong> concern among<br />
scientists and religious authorities in<br />
<strong>the</strong> sustainable utilization <strong>of</strong> biodiversity<br />
through modern biotechnology and its<br />
related biosafety issues; and<br />
(iii) To discuss <strong>the</strong> challenges and<br />
opportunities in <strong>the</strong> sustainable<br />
utilization <strong>of</strong> biodiversity and<br />
biosafety issues faced in an Islamic<br />
environment.<br />
(f)<br />
Seminar on Pollution Compensation Regime<br />
• The seminar was held on 29 July 2005 at<br />
<strong>the</strong> Maritime Institute <strong>of</strong> Malaysia.<br />
40<br />
• The seminar highlighted <strong>the</strong> latest<br />
development in pollution compensation<br />
regime and provided an overview <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
International Convention on Liability and<br />
Compensation for Damage in Connection<br />
with <strong>the</strong> Carriage <strong>of</strong> Hazardous and<br />
Noxious Substances by Sea 1996.<br />
1.2. The following courses were attended by <strong>of</strong>fi cers<br />
<strong>of</strong> Unit V and Unit I jointly as <strong>the</strong> subject matters<br />
handled are interconnected:<br />
(a)<br />
Training Workshop on Boundary Negotiation and<br />
Dispute Resolution organized by <strong>the</strong> International<br />
Boundary Research Unit (IBRU), University Of Durham,<br />
United Kingdom<br />
• The above workshop that was held on<br />
27 – 30 June 2005 at <strong>the</strong> University<br />
<strong>of</strong> Durham was organized by IBRU, an<br />
exclusive world research centre that<br />
<strong>of</strong>fers, amongst o<strong>the</strong>rs, a range <strong>of</strong><br />
consultancy services, information and<br />
expertise on all aspects <strong>of</strong> boundary<br />
delimitation, demarcation, management<br />
and dispute resolution. IBRU also runs<br />
regular training workshops on practical<br />
aspects <strong>of</strong> boundary making, including<br />
maritime boundary delimitation,<br />
negotiating international boundaries,
preparing for litigation and arbitration,<br />
geographical information for boundary<br />
management, and archive research for<br />
boundary dispute resolution.<br />
(b)<br />
Advanced Course in International Legal Frameworks<br />
for <strong>the</strong> Prevention <strong>of</strong> Marine Pollution and <strong>the</strong><br />
Conservation <strong>of</strong> Biodiversity within Oceans Part I:<br />
Conserving Marine Biodiversity<br />
• This course was organized by <strong>the</strong><br />
University <strong>of</strong> Nottingham and was held<br />
on 1 - 5 August 2005 at <strong>the</strong> <strong>Attorney</strong><br />
General’s <strong>Chambers</strong> Malaysia.<br />
• Amongst o<strong>the</strong>rs, <strong>the</strong> course focused on<br />
UNCLOS and <strong>the</strong> modern techniques<br />
<strong>of</strong> ocean management. The course<br />
was intended to impart on participants<br />
knowledge on <strong>the</strong> Law <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Sea<br />
pertaining to <strong>the</strong> key environmental<br />
principles, <strong>the</strong> modern tools <strong>of</strong> ocean<br />
management, <strong>the</strong> regional regimes,<br />
<strong>the</strong> alternative regional institutional<br />
frameworks, <strong>the</strong> East Asian Seas Region<br />
and biodiversity conservation.<br />
41<br />
(c)<br />
Advanced Course in International Legal Frameworks for<br />
<strong>the</strong> Prevention <strong>of</strong> Marine Pollution and <strong>the</strong> Conservation<br />
<strong>of</strong> Biodiversity within Oceans Part II: Preventing Marine<br />
Pollution<br />
• The course was organized by <strong>the</strong><br />
University <strong>of</strong> Nottingham and was held<br />
on 12 - 15 September 2005 at <strong>the</strong><br />
AGC.<br />
• Amongst o<strong>the</strong>rs, <strong>the</strong> course addressed <strong>the</strong><br />
steps and procedures to be undertaken<br />
in preventing marine pollution under <strong>the</strong><br />
UNCLOS in which <strong>the</strong> topics included landbased<br />
sources <strong>of</strong> marine pollution, dumping<br />
at sea, introduction to <strong>the</strong> safety <strong>of</strong> shipping<br />
and <strong>the</strong> role <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> fl ag state, port state<br />
control and civil liability for environmental<br />
damage at sea.
(d)<br />
Seminar on Maritime Law<br />
• This seminar was held on 20 - 22 September<br />
2005 in ILKAP.<br />
• Amongst o<strong>the</strong>rs, <strong>the</strong> course provided a broad<br />
outlook on <strong>the</strong> various aspects <strong>of</strong> Maritime<br />
Law, in particular a <strong>general</strong> overview on<br />
UNCLOS 1982.<br />
(e)<br />
Briefi ng by <strong>the</strong> Malaysian Centre for Remote<br />
Sensing (MACRES)<br />
42<br />
(f)<br />
(g)<br />
• This briefi ng was held on 14 November 2005<br />
at MACRES, Jalan Tun Ismail, Kuala Lumpur.<br />
The briefi ng covered <strong>the</strong> purpose, capabilities<br />
and technical aspects <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> application <strong>of</strong><br />
remote sensing in Malaysia.<br />
Course by <strong>the</strong> United Kingdom Hydrographic Offi ce<br />
(UKHO) on International Boundary Delimitation<br />
• The above course was organized by <strong>the</strong><br />
UKHO and was held at <strong>the</strong> <strong>Attorney</strong> General’s<br />
<strong>Chambers</strong> on 5 - 9 December 2005.<br />
• The course sought to address several<br />
maritime issues within <strong>the</strong> purview <strong>of</strong><br />
UNCLOS.<br />
Advance Course in International Negotiations<br />
• The course was held on 19 - 23 December<br />
2005 in ILKAP in which <strong>the</strong>oretical and<br />
practical aspects <strong>of</strong> international negotiations<br />
were addressed.<br />
2. Lectures<br />
2.1. Offi cers from Unit V, with <strong>the</strong> cooperation <strong>of</strong> Unit I,<br />
had also delivered lectures at IDFR and ILKAP which<br />
were attended by participants from various agencies<br />
which mainly consisted <strong>of</strong> diplomatic <strong>of</strong>fi cers, <strong>of</strong>fi cers<br />
from <strong>the</strong> Judicial and Legal Service, <strong>the</strong> Malaysian<br />
Maritime Enforcement Agency and <strong>the</strong> Police Force.
2.2. Lectures were given on <strong>the</strong> following subject<br />
matter:<br />
(a)<br />
Law <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Sea<br />
• The lecture was delivered at IDFR on 6<br />
September 2005 and at ILKAP on 27<br />
September 2005, which was mainly on an<br />
introduction to <strong>the</strong> Law <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Sea.<br />
• The lecture was meant to give a basic<br />
understanding <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Law <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Sea,<br />
which included <strong>the</strong> historical background<br />
<strong>of</strong> maritime law, <strong>the</strong> maritime regimes,<br />
maritime enforcement in Malaysia and <strong>the</strong><br />
legal instruments pertaining to <strong>the</strong> law <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
sea, in particular UNCLOS.<br />
(b)<br />
Malaysia’s Experience at <strong>the</strong> International Court <strong>of</strong><br />
Justice<br />
• The above lecture was delivered at IDFR on 7<br />
September 2005.<br />
• The lecture covered, amongst o<strong>the</strong>rs,<br />
Malaysia’s experience in <strong>the</strong> ICJ in <strong>the</strong><br />
Case Concerning <strong>the</strong> Sovereignty over<br />
Pulau Ligitan and Pulau Sipadan (Indonesia/<br />
Malaysia) and an advisory opinion on <strong>the</strong><br />
Legal Consequences <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Construction <strong>of</strong><br />
a Wall in <strong>the</strong> Occupied Palestinian Territory.<br />
2.3. Offi cers from Unit V also presented a lecture on<br />
international dispute settlement mechanism,<br />
which was held in ILKAP on 28 September 2005.<br />
The following are <strong>the</strong> subject matters presented<br />
in <strong>the</strong> lecture:<br />
International Dispute Settlement Mechanism<br />
• International Court <strong>of</strong> Justice;<br />
• Permanent Court <strong>of</strong> Arbitration;<br />
• International Criminal Court;<br />
• International Tribunal on <strong>the</strong> Law <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
Sea; and<br />
• Dispute Settlement Understanding.<br />
The lecture had a primary focus on <strong>the</strong> introduction<br />
to International Dispute Mechanism and<br />
Malaysia’s experience in <strong>the</strong> Case Concerning <strong>the</strong><br />
Sovereignty over Pulau Ligitan and Pulau Sipadan<br />
and <strong>the</strong> Case Concerning Land Reclamation by<br />
Singapore in and around <strong>the</strong> Straits <strong>of</strong> Johor at<br />
ITLOS.<br />
3. Meetings and Conferences<br />
3.1 This Unit had organised a seminar on An Introduction<br />
To The Hague Conventions: Fostering The Rule<br />
Of Law In Cross-Border/ Transnational Civil And<br />
Commercial Relations In The Asia-Pacifi c on 22-24<br />
August 2005 at Kota Kinabalu, Sabah.<br />
43
3.2 This Unit had identifi ed and studied <strong>the</strong> various<br />
Conventions under <strong>the</strong> Hague Conventions for<br />
purposes <strong>of</strong> accession. The Conventions that were<br />
discussed during <strong>the</strong> Seminar are as follows:<br />
(a)<br />
(b)<br />
(c)<br />
(d)<br />
(e)<br />
The Convention on Abolishing <strong>the</strong> Requirement<br />
<strong>of</strong> Legalisation for Foreign Public Documents;<br />
The Convention on <strong>the</strong> Taking <strong>of</strong> Evidence<br />
Abroad in Civil or Commercial Matters;<br />
The Convention on <strong>the</strong> Service Abroad <strong>of</strong><br />
Judicial and Extrajudicial Documents in Civil<br />
or Commercial Matters;<br />
The Convention on <strong>the</strong> Civil Aspects <strong>of</strong><br />
International Child Abduction<br />
The Convention on Jurisdiction, Applicable<br />
Law, Recognition, Enforcement and<br />
44<br />
Co-operation in Respect <strong>of</strong> Parental<br />
Responsibility and Measures for <strong>the</strong> Protection<br />
<strong>of</strong> Children;<br />
(f)<br />
(g)<br />
(h)<br />
The Convention on Choice <strong>of</strong> Court<br />
Agreements;<br />
The Convention <strong>of</strong> Law Applicable to Certain<br />
Rights in Respect <strong>of</strong> Securities Held with an<br />
Intermediary<br />
The Draft Convention on International<br />
Recovery <strong>of</strong> Child Support and O<strong>the</strong>r Forms<br />
<strong>of</strong> Family Maintenance.<br />
3.3 Offi cers from Unit V attended numerous meetings,<br />
both at <strong>the</strong> international and domestic levels.<br />
Some <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> meetings are as follows:
International<br />
Meetings Date Venue<br />
1 st Meeting <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Ad Hoc Working Group on Liability and<br />
Redress under <strong>the</strong> Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety<br />
2 nd Meeting <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Conference <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Parties Serving as <strong>the</strong><br />
Meeting <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Parties to <strong>the</strong> Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety<br />
Open-Ended Ad Hoc Working Group Meeting on Non-<br />
Compliance: Rotterdam Convention on <strong>the</strong> Prior Informed<br />
Consent Procedure for certain Hazardous Chemicals and<br />
Pesticides in International Trade<br />
2 nd Meeting <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Conference <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Parties to <strong>the</strong> Rotterdam<br />
Convention on <strong>the</strong> Prior Informed Consent Procedure for<br />
certain Hazardous Chemicals and Pesticides in International<br />
Trade<br />
25 - 27 May 2005 Montreal, Canada<br />
30 May - 3 June 2005 Montreal, Canada<br />
26 - 27 September 2005 Rome, Italy<br />
28 - 30 September 2005 Rome, Italy<br />
Domestic<br />
Meetings Date Venue<br />
45<br />
1 st Meeting <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Technical Committee on <strong>the</strong> Trading <strong>of</strong> Wild<br />
Flora and Fauna Species<br />
Meeting on <strong>the</strong> Draft Pharmacy Bill<br />
Meeting <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> National Committee on <strong>the</strong> Trading <strong>of</strong> Wild<br />
Flora and Fauna Species<br />
25 April 2005<br />
16 - 17 May 2005<br />
3 - 5 July 2005<br />
17 June 2005<br />
Ministry <strong>of</strong> Natural<br />
Resources and<br />
Environment (NRE), Wisma<br />
Tanah,<br />
Kuala Lumpur<br />
Century Mahkota Hotel,<br />
Melaka<br />
Awana Genting Highlands<br />
Golf & Country Resort<br />
NRE, Wisma Tanah, Kuala<br />
Lumpur<br />
The Unit’s <strong>of</strong>fi cers also attended several domestic meetings pertaining to <strong>the</strong> drafting <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> National Biosafety<br />
Bill and <strong>the</strong> national law for <strong>the</strong> Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species <strong>of</strong> Wild Flora and Fauna<br />
(CITIES) held throughout <strong>the</strong> year at NRE as well as preparatory meetings for <strong>the</strong> abovementioned international<br />
meetings.
46<br />
reports on special event 2005
REPORT OF<br />
AN INTRODUCTION TO THE HAGUE CONVENTIONS:<br />
SEMINAR ON FOSTERING THE RULE OF LAW IN<br />
CROSS-BORDER/TRANSNATIONAL<br />
CIVIL AND COMMERCIAL RELATIONS<br />
IN THE ASIA PACIFIC<br />
47<br />
22 – 24 AUGUST 2005<br />
KOTA KINABALU, SABAH<br />
MALAYSIA<br />
Organized by:<br />
In Collaboration With:<br />
THE ATTORNEY GENERAL’S<br />
CHAMBERS OF MALAYSIA<br />
THE MINISTRY OF WOMEN,<br />
FAMILY AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
<strong>the</strong> hague conference on private<br />
international law<br />
The Hague Conference on Private International Law (HCPIL) is an<br />
intergovernmental organisation with <strong>the</strong> purpose “to work for <strong>the</strong><br />
progressive unifi cation <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> rules <strong>of</strong> private international law”.<br />
The First Session <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> HCPIL was convened in 1893 by <strong>the</strong> Ne<strong>the</strong>rlands<br />
Government on <strong>the</strong> initiative <strong>of</strong> T.M.C Asser (Nobel Peace Prize 1911).<br />
Prior to <strong>the</strong> Second World War, Sixth Sessions were held (1893, 1894,<br />
1900, 1904, 1925 and 1928). The Seventh Session in 1951 marked <strong>the</strong><br />
beginning <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> new era with <strong>the</strong> preparation <strong>of</strong> a Statute which made<br />
<strong>the</strong> Conference a permanent intergovernmental organization. The Statute<br />
entered into force on 15 July 1955. Since 1956, regular Plenary Sessions<br />
were held every four years, <strong>the</strong> Twentieth <strong>of</strong> which met in 2005. These<br />
Plenary Sessions negotiate and adopt Conventions and decide upon future<br />
work. The Conventions are prepared by Special Commissions or working<br />
groups held several times a year, <strong>general</strong>ly at <strong>the</strong> Peace Palace in The<br />
Hague, increasingly in various member countries. Special Commissions<br />
are also organised to review <strong>the</strong> operation <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Conventions and adopt<br />
recommendations with <strong>the</strong> object <strong>of</strong> improving <strong>the</strong> effectiveness <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
Conventions and promoting consistent practises and interpretation.<br />
Secretariat <strong>of</strong> The Hague Conference.<br />
48<br />
The Organisation is funded principally by its Member States. Its budget<br />
is approved every year by <strong>the</strong> Council <strong>of</strong> Diplomatic Representatives <strong>of</strong><br />
Member States. The Organisation also seeks and receives some funding<br />
for special projects from o<strong>the</strong>r sources.<br />
Activities <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Conferences are co-ordinated by a multinational Secretariat,<br />
<strong>the</strong> Permanent Bureau, located in <strong>the</strong> Hague. The Conference’s working<br />
languages are English and French. The Secretariat prepares <strong>the</strong> Plenary<br />
Sessions and Special Commissions, and carries out <strong>the</strong> basic research<br />
required for any subject taken up by <strong>the</strong> Conference. It also engages in<br />
various activities to support <strong>the</strong> effective implementation and operation <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> Conventions.<br />
In addition to Diplomatic representations in The Ne<strong>the</strong>rlands, <strong>the</strong> Secretariat<br />
maintains direct contact with Member States through designated National<br />
Organs. It also develops permanent contacts with experts and delegates<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Member States, with <strong>the</strong> national Central Authorities designated<br />
under certain Conventions, as well as with international governmental and<br />
non-governmental organisations, and with pr<strong>of</strong>essional and academic<br />
communities. Increasingly, <strong>the</strong> Secretariat also responds to requests for<br />
information from users <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Conventions.<br />
THE HAGUE CONVENTIONS<br />
Between 1893 and 1904, <strong>the</strong> Conference adopted 7 international<br />
Conventions, which have all been subsequently replaced by more modern<br />
instruments.
Between 1951 and 2005, <strong>the</strong> Conference adopted 37<br />
international Conventions, <strong>the</strong> practical operation <strong>of</strong> many<br />
<strong>of</strong> which is regularly reviewed by Special Commissions.<br />
Even when <strong>the</strong>y are not ratifi ed, <strong>the</strong> Conventions have an<br />
infl uence upon legal systems, in both Member and non-<br />
Member States. They also form a source <strong>of</strong> inspiration for<br />
efforts to unify private international law at <strong>the</strong> regional<br />
level, for example within <strong>the</strong> Organisation <strong>of</strong> American<br />
States or <strong>the</strong> European Union.<br />
The most widely ratifi ed Conventions deal with -<br />
• The abolition <strong>of</strong> legalisation;<br />
• Service <strong>of</strong> process;<br />
• Taking <strong>of</strong> evidence abroad;<br />
• Access to justice;<br />
• International child abduction;<br />
• Intercountry adoption;<br />
• Confl icts <strong>of</strong> laws relating too <strong>the</strong> form <strong>of</strong><br />
testamentary dispositions;<br />
• Maintenance <strong>of</strong> obligations; and<br />
• Recognition <strong>of</strong> divorces.<br />
The most recent Conventions are <strong>the</strong> Convention on<br />
Jurisdiction, Applicable Law, Recognition, Enforcement<br />
and Cooperation in respect <strong>of</strong> Parental Responsibility<br />
and Measures for <strong>the</strong> Protection <strong>of</strong> Children (1996),<br />
<strong>the</strong> Convention on <strong>the</strong> International Protection <strong>of</strong> Adults<br />
(2000), <strong>the</strong> Convention on <strong>the</strong> Law Applicable to Certain<br />
Rights in respect <strong>of</strong> Securities held with an Intermediary<br />
and <strong>the</strong> Convention on Choice <strong>of</strong> Court Agreements<br />
(2005).<br />
Negotiations on a new global instrument on <strong>the</strong><br />
international recovery <strong>of</strong> child support and o<strong>the</strong>r forms <strong>of</strong><br />
family maintenance are currently in progress. Questions <strong>of</strong><br />
private international law raised by <strong>the</strong> information society,<br />
including electronic commerce are also on <strong>the</strong> agenda,<br />
toge<strong>the</strong>r with, without priority, <strong>the</strong> following topics:<br />
• Confl ict <strong>of</strong> jurisdictions;<br />
• Applicable law and international judicial and<br />
administrative cooperation in respect <strong>of</strong> civil<br />
liability for environmental damage;<br />
• Jurisdiction, recognition and enforcement<br />
<strong>of</strong> decisions on matters <strong>of</strong> succession upon<br />
death and questions <strong>of</strong> private international law<br />
relating to unmarried couples; and<br />
• The law applicable to unfair competition as well<br />
as assessment and analysis <strong>of</strong> transnational<br />
legal issues relating to indirectly held securities<br />
and security interest, taking into account<br />
in particular <strong>the</strong> work undertaken by o<strong>the</strong>r<br />
international organizations.<br />
The ultimate goal <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> HCPIL is to work for a world in<br />
which, despite <strong>the</strong> differences between legal systems,<br />
persons-individuals as well as companies can enjoy a<br />
high degree <strong>of</strong> legal security.<br />
Malaysia joined <strong>the</strong> rapidly expanding global “Hague<br />
Family” on 2 October 2002 and <strong>the</strong> <strong>Attorney</strong> Generals<br />
<strong>Chambers</strong> <strong>of</strong> Malaysia has been appointed as <strong>the</strong> National<br />
Organ for Malaysia to handle and coordinate all matters<br />
pertaining to <strong>the</strong> HCPIL.<br />
49<br />
* Source taken from <strong>the</strong> website <strong>of</strong> The HCPIL
WELCOMING SPEECH<br />
BY<br />
THE HONOURABLE<br />
TAN SRI ABDUL GANI PATAIL<br />
ATTORNEY-GENERAL OF MALAYSIA<br />
The Honourable Dato’ Seri Mohamad Radzi Sheikh Ahmad,<br />
Minister in <strong>the</strong> Prime Minister’s Department <strong>of</strong> Malaysia,<br />
The Honourable Dato’ Seri Shahrizat Abdul Jalil, Minister <strong>of</strong><br />
Women, Family and Community Development <strong>of</strong> Malaysia,<br />
The Honourable Tan Sri Datuk Chong Kah Kiat, Deputy Chief<br />
Minister and Minister <strong>of</strong> Tourism, Culture and Environment <strong>of</strong><br />
Sabah,<br />
50<br />
The Honourable Datuk Seri Panglima Joseph Pairin Kitingan,<br />
Deputy Chief Minister and Minister <strong>of</strong> Rural Development <strong>of</strong><br />
Sabah,<br />
The Honourable Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Yahya Husin, Deputy<br />
Chief Minister and Minister <strong>of</strong> Community Development and<br />
Consumer Affairs <strong>of</strong> Sabah,<br />
Dr. Christophe Bernasconi, First Secretary <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Permanent<br />
Bureau <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Hague Conference on Private International Law,<br />
Your Excellencies, Distinguished Delegates, Respected Dignitaries<br />
and Participants,<br />
Ladies and Gentlemen,<br />
Assalamualaikum,<br />
On behalf <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Attorney</strong>-General’s <strong>Chambers</strong> <strong>of</strong> Malaysia, it gives<br />
me great pleasure to bid you a warm welcome to Malaysia and to An<br />
Introduction to <strong>the</strong> Hague Conventions Seminar, on Fostering <strong>the</strong> Rule<br />
<strong>of</strong> Law in Cross Border/Transnational Civil and Commercial Relations in<br />
<strong>the</strong> Asia-Pacifi c. The <strong>Attorney</strong>-General’s <strong>Chambers</strong> <strong>of</strong> Malaysia is indeed<br />
honoured to organise this Seminar and I wish to thank Your Excellencies,<br />
Distinguished Delegates and Participants for your positive response to our<br />
invitation to participate in this Seminar.
Your presence here today is a clear testimony <strong>of</strong> your countries’ strong<br />
commitments and continued interest in fostering <strong>the</strong> rule <strong>of</strong> law and<br />
addressing issues <strong>of</strong> cross-border co-ordination <strong>of</strong> private law, in <strong>general</strong>,<br />
and in <strong>the</strong> work <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Permanent Bureau <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Hague Conference on<br />
Private International Law, in particular, being <strong>the</strong> forum for unifi cation <strong>of</strong><br />
rules <strong>of</strong> private international law since its creation in 1893. Your active<br />
participation and important contribution in <strong>the</strong> next three days will ensure<br />
<strong>the</strong> success <strong>of</strong> this Seminar and will fur<strong>the</strong>r deepen our understanding<br />
<strong>of</strong> selected Conventions under <strong>the</strong> auspices <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Hague Conference on<br />
Private International Law.<br />
The idea <strong>of</strong> having this Seminar was fi rst mooted by Mr. Hans van Loon,<br />
<strong>the</strong> Secretary General <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Hague Conference on Private International<br />
Law and fur<strong>the</strong>r brought to realization through <strong>the</strong> efforts <strong>of</strong> Dr. Christophe<br />
Bernasconi, <strong>the</strong> First Secretary <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Hague Conference. Malaysia is<br />
at a critical juncture <strong>of</strong> her membership <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Conference as regards<br />
identifying various Conventions for purposes <strong>of</strong> accession. It was felt that<br />
a Seminar such as this would serve as an excellent forum for fur<strong>the</strong>r<br />
discussion on <strong>the</strong> Hague Conventions for purposes <strong>of</strong> accession by both<br />
Member States and Non-member States to <strong>the</strong> Hague Conference.<br />
Malaysia joined <strong>the</strong> rapidly expanding global “Hague Family” on 2 October<br />
2002 and <strong>the</strong> <strong>Attorney</strong>-General’s <strong>Chambers</strong> <strong>of</strong> Malaysia has been<br />
appointed <strong>the</strong> National Organ for Malaysia to handle and coordinate all<br />
matters pertaining to <strong>the</strong> Hague Conference.<br />
51<br />
With 37 Conventions under <strong>the</strong> auspices <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Hague Conference on<br />
Private International Law, <strong>the</strong> <strong>Attorney</strong>-General’s <strong>Chambers</strong> <strong>of</strong> Malaysia has<br />
<strong>the</strong> mammoth task <strong>of</strong> analysing and conducting in-depth studies <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>se<br />
Conventions with a view <strong>of</strong> recommending to <strong>the</strong> Government <strong>of</strong> Malaysia,<br />
accession to some <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>se Conventions. A careful and detailed analysis<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Conventions at this crucial stage before accession is indispensable<br />
as <strong>the</strong>re has to be sound evaluation <strong>of</strong> all <strong>the</strong> legal, technical and practical<br />
actions needed in order to ensure <strong>the</strong> smooth implementation <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
Conventions in future. The current endeavours are being supported by <strong>the</strong><br />
relevant Ministries and agencies which are clearly involved in providing<br />
<strong>the</strong> necessary policy considerations and decisions.<br />
This Seminar would provide a good platform for discussions and<br />
deliberations among countries in <strong>the</strong> Asia-Pacifi c region on <strong>the</strong><br />
development <strong>of</strong> private international law, and more specifi cally on <strong>the</strong><br />
substantive provisions <strong>of</strong> selected Conventions under <strong>the</strong> auspices <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
Hague Conference on Private International Law. I fi rmly believe that <strong>the</strong><br />
exchange <strong>of</strong> ideas, opinions and experiences that will take place in this
52<br />
great hall, as we focus on <strong>the</strong> many troubling crossborder<br />
issues, will augur well for <strong>the</strong> future <strong>of</strong> private<br />
international law in this region.<br />
I have ga<strong>the</strong>red from <strong>the</strong> experience <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> States<br />
being Parties to <strong>the</strong> various Conventions that most, if<br />
not all, <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>se Conventions have proven effi cient in<br />
fostering international co-operation in cross-border and<br />
transnational civil and commercial matters. Hence, it is<br />
for this reason that <strong>the</strong> <strong>Attorney</strong>-General’s <strong>Chambers</strong><br />
<strong>of</strong> Malaysia has given priority to three Conventions for<br />
purposes <strong>of</strong> accession given <strong>the</strong> benefi ts and effi ciency<br />
that will be derived from becoming a Party to <strong>the</strong>se<br />
Conventions. The three Conventions are <strong>the</strong> Convention<br />
on Abolishing <strong>the</strong> Requirement <strong>of</strong> Legalisation for<br />
Foreign Public Documents, <strong>the</strong> Convention on <strong>the</strong> Taking<br />
<strong>of</strong> Evidence Abroad in Civil or Commercial Matters<br />
and <strong>the</strong> Convention on <strong>the</strong> Service Abroad <strong>of</strong> Judicial<br />
and Extrajudicial Documents in Civil or Commercial<br />
Matters.<br />
Your Excellencies, Distinguished Delegates, Respected<br />
Dignitaries and Participants,<br />
Children and young people are society’s most precious<br />
national resource; <strong>the</strong>y must feel that <strong>the</strong>y have a<br />
contribution to make to building <strong>the</strong> world in which<br />
<strong>the</strong>y live. The vigilant pursuit <strong>of</strong> justice for children and<br />
young people and <strong>the</strong>ir families must never be relaxed.<br />
The protection <strong>of</strong> children in danger has always been<br />
at <strong>the</strong> heart <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> concerns <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> people within <strong>the</strong><br />
establishment <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Hague Conference on Private<br />
International Law. Indeed <strong>the</strong>re is a long-standing<br />
tradition <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Hague Conference in <strong>the</strong> area <strong>of</strong> family<br />
law in particular. I am sure this same concern is in <strong>the</strong><br />
heart <strong>of</strong> all <strong>of</strong> us present here today.<br />
The important and successful historical line runs<br />
from <strong>the</strong> 1902 Convention Relating to <strong>the</strong> Settlement<br />
<strong>of</strong> Guardianship <strong>of</strong> Minors via <strong>the</strong> 1961 Convention<br />
Concerning <strong>the</strong> Powers <strong>of</strong> Authorities and <strong>the</strong> Law<br />
Applicable in Respect <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Protection <strong>of</strong> Minors to<br />
<strong>the</strong> 1996 Convention on Jurisdiction, Applicable Law,<br />
Recognition, Enforcement and Co-operation In Respect<br />
<strong>of</strong> Parental Responsibility and Measures for <strong>the</strong> Protection<br />
<strong>of</strong> Children.<br />
The Hague Conference on Private International Law has<br />
continued its work on <strong>the</strong> protection <strong>of</strong> children with<br />
success, an example <strong>of</strong> which is <strong>the</strong> Convention <strong>of</strong> 25<br />
October 1980 on <strong>the</strong> Civil Aspects <strong>of</strong> International Child<br />
Abduction. Therefore a Seminar which proposes to<br />
introduce participants to <strong>the</strong> Hague Conventions would<br />
not be complete without presentations and discussions<br />
on <strong>the</strong> signifi cant work that has been accomplished in<br />
this area. The Conventions that will be discussed during<br />
<strong>the</strong> Seminar in this respect are <strong>the</strong> Convention on <strong>the</strong> Civil<br />
Aspects <strong>of</strong> International Child Abduction, <strong>the</strong> Convention<br />
on Jurisdiction, Applicable Law, Recognition, Enforcement<br />
and Co-operation In Respect <strong>of</strong> Parental Responsibility<br />
and Measures for <strong>the</strong> Protection <strong>of</strong> Children and <strong>the</strong><br />
Convention on International Recovery <strong>of</strong> Child Support<br />
and O<strong>the</strong>r Forms <strong>of</strong> Family Maintenance.<br />
In addition, we are most fortunate to have, at this Seminar,<br />
presentations and panel discussions on more recent<br />
Conventions such as <strong>the</strong> Convention on Choice <strong>of</strong> Court<br />
Agreements and <strong>the</strong> Convention on <strong>the</strong> Law Applicable<br />
to Certain Rights in Respect <strong>of</strong> Securities held with an<br />
Intermediary. The completion <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Convention on <strong>the</strong><br />
Law Applicable to Certain Rights in Respect <strong>of</strong> Securities<br />
held with an Intermediary took only a little more than<br />
two and a half years, beginning from a proposal made<br />
during <strong>the</strong> Special Commission on General Affairs and<br />
Policy <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Hague Conference which met in May 2000<br />
in The Hague. This is a remarkable feat considering <strong>the</strong><br />
short period taken to develop an instrument that not only<br />
addresses diffi cult technical issues, but which also has<br />
to suit <strong>the</strong> needs and interests <strong>of</strong> business practice while<br />
at <strong>the</strong> same time taking into account <strong>the</strong> peculiarities <strong>of</strong><br />
many different legal systems.<br />
Your Excellencies, Distinguished Delegates, Respected<br />
Dignitaries and Participants,<br />
Ano<strong>the</strong>r important objective <strong>of</strong> this Seminar is to have<br />
a deeper understanding and appreciation <strong>of</strong> Syariah<br />
law. Most Contracting States to <strong>the</strong> Conventions under
<strong>the</strong> auspices <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Hague Conference on Private<br />
International Law do not have a Syariah court system.<br />
Malaysia, being a State having such system along side<br />
<strong>the</strong> civil court system is not spared from experiencing<br />
some concerns or reservations in terms <strong>of</strong> accession to<br />
certain Conventions.<br />
For some Islamic States or States that have a<br />
predominantly Muslim population, it may well be that <strong>the</strong><br />
legal infrastructure is not in place and that national policy<br />
is not in favour <strong>of</strong> accepting international obligations<br />
which would be contrary to Syariah law. An example <strong>of</strong> a<br />
thorny issue which will hopefully be addressed during this<br />
Seminar is <strong>the</strong> situation where a Syariah Court would be<br />
obliged under <strong>the</strong> Convention on <strong>the</strong> Taking <strong>of</strong> Evidence<br />
Abroad in Civil or Commercial Matters to take evidence<br />
for use in a non-Syariah Court in a case which involves<br />
personal laws and where at least one party is a Muslim.<br />
This is equally applicable to <strong>the</strong> Native Courts <strong>of</strong> Sabah<br />
and Sarawak.<br />
Judging from <strong>the</strong> programme for this Seminar, I have<br />
no doubt that with <strong>the</strong> opportunity to exchange views,<br />
insights and ideas in a frank and forthright manner, <strong>the</strong><br />
outcome <strong>of</strong> our deliberations will provide positive input,<br />
not only in terms <strong>of</strong> Malaysia’s proposed accession to <strong>the</strong><br />
Conventions, but also towards fostering <strong>the</strong> rule <strong>of</strong> law in<br />
transnational civil and commercial relations in <strong>the</strong> Asia-<br />
Pacifi c as well as developing a better understanding <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> concerns from <strong>the</strong> Syariah law perspective.<br />
Royal Malaysian Police, <strong>the</strong> Royal Malaysian Customs,<br />
<strong>the</strong> Immigration Department <strong>of</strong> Malaysia, <strong>the</strong> Ministry<br />
<strong>of</strong> Health, <strong>the</strong> Ceremonial and International Conference<br />
Secretariat Division <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Prime Minister’s Department,<br />
Malaysia Airports Sdn. Bhd. and <strong>the</strong> Management <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
Nexus Resort Karambunai for <strong>the</strong>ir unwavering support in<br />
<strong>the</strong> organisation <strong>of</strong> this Seminar.<br />
In conclusion, I wish you a productive Seminar and I<br />
certainly look forward to being part <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> discussions<br />
over <strong>the</strong> next three days.<br />
Thank-you.<br />
53<br />
I would like to take this opportunity to once again<br />
thank Your Excellencies, Distinguished Delegates and<br />
Participants for your presence at this Seminar. In addition<br />
I would like to extend my heartfelt appreciation to <strong>the</strong><br />
Minister in <strong>the</strong> Prime Minister’s Department <strong>of</strong> Malaysia<br />
for <strong>of</strong>fi ciating this morning’s opening ceremony, and<br />
to <strong>the</strong> Minister <strong>of</strong> Women, Family and Community<br />
Development <strong>of</strong> Malaysia for delivering a keynote address<br />
this morning. My appreciation also goes to <strong>the</strong> Ministry<br />
<strong>of</strong> Women, Family and Community Development <strong>of</strong><br />
Malaysia, <strong>the</strong> State Government <strong>of</strong> Sabah, in particular<br />
<strong>the</strong> Minister and <strong>the</strong> <strong>of</strong>fi cials from <strong>the</strong> Ministry <strong>of</strong> Tourism,<br />
Culture and Environment, <strong>the</strong> Sabah Tourism Board, <strong>the</strong>
OPENING SPEECH<br />
BY<br />
THE HONOURABLE<br />
DATO’ SERI MOHAMAD RADZI BIN SHEIKH AHMAD<br />
MINISTER IN THE PRIME MINISTER DEPARTMENT<br />
Yang Berhormat Dato’ Seri Shahrizat Abdul Jalil, Minister <strong>of</strong> Women,<br />
Family and Community Development <strong>of</strong> Malaysia,<br />
The Honourable Tan Sri Abdul Gani Patail, <strong>the</strong> <strong>Attorney</strong>-General <strong>of</strong><br />
Malaysia,<br />
Yang Berhormat Tan Sri Chong Kah Kiat, Deputy Chief Minister and<br />
Minister <strong>of</strong> Tourism, Culture and Environment <strong>of</strong> Sabah,<br />
Yang Berhormat Datuk Seri Panglima Joseph Pairin Kitingan, Deputy<br />
Chief Minister and Minister <strong>of</strong> Rural Development <strong>of</strong> Sabah,<br />
54<br />
Yang Berhormat Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Yahya Husin, Deputy Chief<br />
Minister and Minister <strong>of</strong> Community Development and Consumer<br />
Affairs <strong>of</strong> Sabah,<br />
Yang Berhormat Datuk Johan Mahyuddin, Speaker <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> State <strong>of</strong><br />
Sabah,<br />
Dr. Christophe Bernasconi, First Secretary <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Permanent Bureau<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Hague Conference on Private International Law,<br />
Your Excellencies, Distinguished Delegates, Respected Dignitaries<br />
and Participants,<br />
Ladies and Gentlemen,<br />
Assalamualaikum Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuh and Good<br />
Morning,<br />
On behalf <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Government and people <strong>of</strong> Malaysia, I bid you a warm<br />
welcome to all, to Malaysia, to Sabah and to this Seminar. It is an honour for<br />
me to be in <strong>the</strong> company <strong>of</strong> such distinguished and eminent judges, judicial<br />
and legal <strong>of</strong>fi cers, lawyers as well as academicians. I wish to thank everyone<br />
for taking <strong>the</strong> time to attend this Seminar and for your willingness to share<br />
your expertise and experiences to make this a very successful event.
Ladies and Gentlemen,<br />
We meet here today to discuss some <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> ramifi cations<br />
globalisation has had on jurisdiction and international<br />
law. <strong>the</strong> emergence <strong>of</strong> a so-called “borderless” world,<br />
brought on by advancements in information and<br />
communication technology as well as transportation, has<br />
resulted in <strong>the</strong> liberalisation and integration <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> world<br />
economy. This has necessitated a variety <strong>of</strong> changes<br />
in legal arrangements made possible by multilateral<br />
conventions relating to cross-border movement <strong>of</strong><br />
goods, services, investment, and in some cases, people.<br />
Apart from various regional trading arrangements, <strong>the</strong>re<br />
has been a standardising <strong>of</strong> laws such as those relating<br />
to international shipping contracts, international sale <strong>of</strong><br />
goods, and international air travel and a lot <strong>of</strong> benefi ts<br />
have accrued to parties concerned.<br />
With <strong>the</strong> expansion <strong>of</strong> international trade, commerce<br />
and communications, <strong>the</strong> volume and intensity <strong>of</strong><br />
international disputes have also increased in equal<br />
proportion. Increasingly now, we fi nd that <strong>the</strong> traditional<br />
means <strong>of</strong> resolving problems are no longer adequate to<br />
deal with <strong>the</strong>se disputes.<br />
There is also <strong>the</strong> problem <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> high level <strong>of</strong> legal diversity<br />
resulting from <strong>the</strong> different legal systems <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> world<br />
coming to exist side by side which in many instances<br />
has led to a high increase in transaction costs. The lack<br />
<strong>of</strong> uniform rules, such as in <strong>the</strong> commercial sector, have<br />
made <strong>the</strong> outcome <strong>of</strong> litigation unpredictable and <strong>of</strong>ten<br />
dictated by <strong>the</strong> court and locality where <strong>the</strong> hearing<br />
takes place. The lack <strong>of</strong> enforcement rules in respect<br />
<strong>of</strong> judgments by foreign courts has affected investment<br />
confi dence. Parties to transactions sometimes have to<br />
rely on procedures <strong>of</strong> self-enforcement contained in <strong>the</strong>ir<br />
contracts. Indeed <strong>the</strong>re is an urgent need for jurisdiction<br />
and clear legal guidelines applicable to all international<br />
transactions so that costs can be minimized and timeconsuming<br />
negotiations avoided.<br />
There is also <strong>the</strong> question <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> build-up <strong>of</strong> psychological<br />
barriers to cross-border trade caused by excessive legal<br />
diversity. Already, diversity <strong>of</strong> languages and unfamiliar<br />
customs present challenges to <strong>the</strong> business sector.<br />
Risks are fur<strong>the</strong>r compounded due to <strong>the</strong> severe lack <strong>of</strong><br />
harmony in <strong>the</strong> choice <strong>of</strong> jurisdiction and law governing<br />
cross-border transactions, resulting in even more<br />
uncertainties and <strong>the</strong> increased risks.<br />
In environments where reliable and effective legal<br />
systems are not in place to safeguard <strong>the</strong> rights <strong>of</strong><br />
transacting parties, this have resulted in mounting<br />
costs for <strong>the</strong> monitoring <strong>of</strong> unresolved confl icts, thus<br />
heightening <strong>the</strong> risks for <strong>the</strong> parties involved. All <strong>the</strong>se<br />
uncertainties and inconvenience may discourage parties,<br />
in particular small and medium-sized businesses, from<br />
entering into cross-border business transactions.<br />
Let us now turn to issues in family law, where <strong>the</strong><br />
confl ict <strong>of</strong> jurisdiction and confl ict <strong>of</strong> law have given rise<br />
to serious consequences. We have seen children who,<br />
because <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> lack <strong>of</strong> jurisdiction and uniformity in law,<br />
have not been provided for and whose custody status<br />
are uncertain.<br />
We saw <strong>the</strong> need for family law to protect matrimonial<br />
rights, facilitate divorces and annulments involving<br />
foreign spouses, and resolve child abduction cases. In<br />
fact <strong>the</strong>re has been an increase in litigation involving<br />
family law.<br />
55
56<br />
Never<strong>the</strong>less, <strong>the</strong> interaction <strong>of</strong> legal systems and<br />
cross-border blend <strong>of</strong> pluralism can serve to promote<br />
mutual understanding and <strong>the</strong> creation <strong>of</strong> a richer legal<br />
literature. We must endeavour to forge unity between<br />
<strong>the</strong> diverse legal traditions <strong>of</strong> different States and to<br />
continue to seek creative solutions.<br />
Ra<strong>the</strong>r than transplant or adapt one system to ano<strong>the</strong>r<br />
we should shy away from categorization and pigeonhole<br />
options as <strong>the</strong>se can hamper <strong>the</strong> application <strong>of</strong><br />
context and human-sensitive solutions. The solution<br />
lies in striking a balance between pluralism and<br />
harmonisation. To attain this balance requires a strong<br />
spirit <strong>of</strong> judicial and administrative cooperation and a<br />
level <strong>of</strong> understanding and respect among all States<br />
towards <strong>the</strong> legal systems <strong>of</strong> individual States.<br />
It is against this background, ladies and gentlemen, that<br />
we applaud <strong>the</strong> efforts, initiatives and good work <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
Permanent Bureau <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Hague Conference on Private<br />
International Law and acknowledge <strong>the</strong> breadth <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir<br />
reach to cover a worldwide audience. To grace this<br />
Seminar are two distinguished representatives from <strong>the</strong><br />
Hague Conference on Private International Law and we<br />
are honoured by <strong>the</strong>ir presence. The Hague Conference<br />
on Private International Law has <strong>the</strong> mandate to work<br />
towards a progressive unifi cation <strong>of</strong> private international<br />
law and has been relentless in <strong>the</strong>ir work on <strong>the</strong><br />
codifi cation <strong>of</strong> private international law rules for over a<br />
century. The Hague Conference on Private International<br />
Law was founded in 1893 and has come <strong>of</strong> age, to<br />
become <strong>the</strong> major international organization.<br />
Presently, <strong>the</strong> Hague Conference has adopted 37<br />
Conventions on different areas <strong>of</strong> private international law,<br />
aided by Special Commissions. The Hague Conference<br />
spends increasing time and effort to <strong>the</strong> implementation<br />
and support <strong>of</strong> its Conventions. This includes support<br />
and aftercare such as <strong>the</strong> publication <strong>of</strong> Good Practice<br />
Guides and <strong>the</strong> establishment <strong>of</strong> databases to enhance<br />
<strong>the</strong> functioning and implementation <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Conventions.<br />
The work <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Hague Conference today touches<br />
more than 110 countries around <strong>the</strong> world, as an<br />
increasing number <strong>of</strong> non-Member States are also<br />
becoming parties to <strong>the</strong> Hague Conventions.. Even when<br />
<strong>the</strong>se Conventions are not ratifi ed, <strong>the</strong>y have created<br />
tremendous infl uence on legal systems in both Member<br />
and non-Member States. The Hague Conference is a<br />
source <strong>of</strong> inspiration to all <strong>of</strong> us for <strong>the</strong>ir work in unifying<br />
private international law such as within <strong>the</strong> Organisation<br />
<strong>of</strong> American States and <strong>the</strong> European Union.<br />
Ladies and Gentlemen,<br />
The Asia-Pacifi c region has charted greater economic<br />
growth and a high level <strong>of</strong> cross-border mobility. Currently,<br />
<strong>the</strong>re is an urgent need to promote international judicial<br />
and administrative co-operation and harmonisation <strong>of</strong><br />
private international law in this region. This calls for<br />
better formal and informal contacts amongst judges,<br />
judicial and legal <strong>of</strong>fi cers and lawyers <strong>of</strong> different States.<br />
A forum is needed to discuss jurisdictional issues and<br />
<strong>the</strong> interpretation and application <strong>of</strong> laws in civil and<br />
commercial matters. We call upon States to place a high<br />
priority on <strong>the</strong> development <strong>of</strong> a common understanding<br />
<strong>of</strong> private international law for this region and to ensure<br />
that it keeps abreast <strong>of</strong> changes.<br />
Individual States in <strong>the</strong> Asia-Pacifi c region have not gone<br />
far beyond <strong>the</strong> intra-Commonwealth arrangements for<br />
<strong>the</strong> reciprocal enforcement <strong>of</strong> maintenance orders and<br />
<strong>the</strong> reciprocal enforcement <strong>of</strong> judgment debts. Ladies<br />
and gentlemen, it is no longer suffi cient for <strong>the</strong> legal<br />
systems <strong>of</strong> this region to be contented with unwritten<br />
private international law rules which would produce<br />
inconsistent results. It is also necessary for States to<br />
have, and be able to exercise at times, jurisdiction to<br />
enforce foreign judgments.<br />
What is needed is closer cooperation and harmonisation<br />
<strong>of</strong> rules <strong>of</strong> private international law in <strong>the</strong> legal systems<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Asia-Pacifi c States to ensure greater consistency<br />
and transparency in cross-border transactions. States<br />
need to be more proactive and engage in meaningful<br />
inter-state interactions to enhance regional and<br />
international understanding.
Ladies and Gentlemen,<br />
We hope that this Seminar will be able to contribute towards<br />
promoting regional cooperation through <strong>the</strong> discussions<br />
and presentations <strong>of</strong> in-depth research studies on <strong>the</strong><br />
issues <strong>of</strong> private international law in this region. It is also<br />
our hope that this Seminar will lead to <strong>the</strong> streng<strong>the</strong>ning<br />
<strong>of</strong> international judicial and administrative cooperation<br />
and eventually to <strong>the</strong> establishment <strong>of</strong> a strong and<br />
coherent system <strong>of</strong> regional cooperation in judicial, legal<br />
and administrative functions for <strong>the</strong> Asia-Pacifi c region.<br />
We stand to be guided by <strong>the</strong> experience <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Hague<br />
Conference so that <strong>the</strong> system would complement <strong>the</strong><br />
existing international system <strong>of</strong> cooperation.<br />
In <strong>the</strong> discussions and deliberations <strong>of</strong> our distinguished<br />
assembly <strong>of</strong> legal experts and practitioners, we hope to<br />
gain insights and a synergy in our approach to solving<br />
private international law issues. We see <strong>the</strong> use <strong>of</strong> concrete,<br />
neutral and pragmatic principles as <strong>the</strong> effective approach<br />
towards a resolution involving disparate legal and cultural<br />
traditions that will lead to greater certainty, predictability<br />
and fairness.<br />
The question now is, do we have <strong>the</strong> appropriate systems<br />
in place to address issues <strong>of</strong> change which will happen<br />
continuously and rapidly in <strong>the</strong> manner that characterises<br />
this electronic age? As such, I urge our law academicians<br />
to make <strong>the</strong> study <strong>of</strong> private international law rules a priority<br />
and <strong>the</strong> focus <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir research and writings. It was Francis<br />
Bacon who said: “It is a reverend thing to see an ancient<br />
building or castle not in decay”. I hope <strong>the</strong> same holds true<br />
for private international law.<br />
Ladies and Gentlemen,<br />
I would like to thank you once again for your positive<br />
response and your presence at this Seminar. I have full<br />
confi dence that <strong>the</strong> Seminar will be a successful one and<br />
that your informal interactions during tea breaks and at meal<br />
times will augment <strong>the</strong> formal discussions and contribute<br />
fur<strong>the</strong>r towards fostering a closer relationship among all<br />
involved in <strong>the</strong> policy, practice and administration <strong>of</strong> law in<br />
this region.<br />
I would like to take this opportunity to extend my<br />
appreciation and congratulations to <strong>the</strong> <strong>Attorney</strong><br />
General’s <strong>Chambers</strong> <strong>of</strong> Malaysia, which, with <strong>the</strong><br />
assistance <strong>of</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r government ministries and<br />
agencies, private companies and organisations, and<br />
corporate bodies have come toge<strong>the</strong>r to organise<br />
this timely Seminar. I would also like to thank <strong>the</strong><br />
Hague Conference on Private International Law for<br />
<strong>the</strong>ir support and endorsement <strong>of</strong> this Seminar.<br />
On that note, it is now my pleasure and privilege to<br />
declare <strong>the</strong> Seminar open and to wish you success<br />
in your deliberations.<br />
Thank you.<br />
57
KEYNOTE ADDRESS<br />
BY<br />
THE HONOURABLE<br />
DATO’ SERI SHAHRIZAT ABDUL JALIL<br />
MINISTER OF WOMEN, FAMILY AND<br />
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT OF MALAYSIA<br />
The Honourable Dato’ Seri Mohamad Radzi Sheikh Ahmad,<br />
Minister in <strong>the</strong> Prime Minister’s Department,<br />
The Honourable Tan Sri Abdul Gani Patail, <strong>the</strong> <strong>Attorney</strong>-General<br />
<strong>of</strong> Malaysia,<br />
The Honourable Tan Sri Datuk Chong Kah Kiat, Deputy Chief Minister<br />
<strong>of</strong> Sabah and Minister <strong>of</strong> Tourism, Culture and Environment <strong>of</strong><br />
Sabah,<br />
58<br />
The Honourable Datuk Seri Panglima Joseph Pairin Kitingan,<br />
Deputy Chief Minister <strong>of</strong> Sabah and Minister <strong>of</strong> Rural Development<br />
<strong>of</strong> Sabah,<br />
The Honourable Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Yahya Husin, Deputy<br />
Chief Minister <strong>of</strong> Sabah and Minister <strong>of</strong> Community Development<br />
and Consumer Affairs <strong>of</strong> Sabah,<br />
Dr. Christophe Bernasconi, First Secretary <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Permanent<br />
Bureau <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Hague Conference on Private International Law,<br />
Your Excellencies, Distinguished Delegates, Respected Dignitaries<br />
and Participants,<br />
Ladies and Gentlemen,<br />
Assalamualaikum Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuh and A Very Good<br />
Morning,<br />
On behalf <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Government and people <strong>of</strong> Malaysia, I would like to extend<br />
a very warm Selamat Datang and welcome to all guests and participants to<br />
An Introduction to <strong>the</strong> Hague Conventions, Seminar on Fostering <strong>the</strong> Rule<br />
<strong>of</strong> Law in Cross Border/Transnational Civil and Commercial Relations in <strong>the</strong><br />
Asia-Pacifi c. I am honoured to be invited to deliver <strong>the</strong> keynote address<br />
at this important Seminar where issues on cross-border coordination<br />
<strong>of</strong> private international law will be discussed. I would like to take this<br />
opportunity to thank <strong>the</strong> <strong>Attorney</strong> General’s <strong>Chambers</strong> as <strong>the</strong> organiser <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> Seminar for kindly inviting me to be here this morning.
today, <strong>the</strong>y are irrefutably enjoying better economic<br />
and social security than those <strong>of</strong> previous generations.<br />
Economic development and increased access to<br />
education in recent years has contributed tremendously<br />
to <strong>the</strong> enhancement <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> status and protection<br />
<strong>of</strong> women and children in this region. However <strong>the</strong><br />
family structure <strong>of</strong> today still rests on a fragile balance<br />
endangered by <strong>the</strong> stress and strain <strong>of</strong> modern living.<br />
Under <strong>the</strong> Ministry <strong>of</strong> Women, Family and Community<br />
Development, our mandates include <strong>the</strong> preservation<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> family and social structure <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> society as well<br />
as <strong>the</strong> protection <strong>of</strong> women, children and <strong>the</strong> socially<br />
and economically disadvantaged persons. I must say<br />
that protecting <strong>the</strong>se classes <strong>of</strong> citizens in <strong>the</strong> new<br />
millennium is not without its challenges. Protecting<br />
children for instance, would now involve debate on<br />
topics that range from representation <strong>of</strong> children in all<br />
legal proceedings, hearing <strong>the</strong> voice <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> child and <strong>the</strong><br />
family, enforcement <strong>of</strong> contact orders, to international<br />
access arrangements including <strong>the</strong> mechanism under<br />
<strong>the</strong> relevant Hague Conventions. O<strong>the</strong>r pertinent<br />
considerations also include topics on <strong>the</strong> protection <strong>of</strong><br />
children from violence, human rights, juvenile justice,<br />
children as victims <strong>of</strong> war, trading in children and<br />
children living with AIDS.<br />
This responsibility can only be carried out effectively<br />
with <strong>the</strong> assistance <strong>of</strong> a legal system and legislative<br />
framework, which is sensitive to <strong>the</strong> social needs <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
people.<br />
Notwithstanding <strong>the</strong> diversity <strong>of</strong> our background, I am<br />
sure that we are in absolute agreement that family is<br />
indeed <strong>the</strong> building block <strong>of</strong> society and that our greatest<br />
fulfi llment lies <strong>the</strong>re. Every family situation is unique and<br />
different but in many ways every family is similar. As<br />
regards women and children in <strong>the</strong> Asia-Pacifi c region<br />
As we know, Malaysia is a multi-racial, multi-religious<br />
country with around 25 million people with Islam<br />
as <strong>the</strong> <strong>of</strong>fi cial religion and <strong>the</strong> Malay race making up<br />
<strong>the</strong> majority, and with every o<strong>the</strong>r religion and race<br />
practicing <strong>the</strong>ir faith and culture in peace and with<br />
dignity. Within this melting pot, Malaysia places great<br />
emphasis on <strong>the</strong> preservation <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> family and its<br />
values. Malaysia has also made a consistent and fi rm<br />
stand on <strong>the</strong> traditional defi nition <strong>of</strong> a family. A family<br />
is formed out <strong>of</strong> a marriage registered between a man<br />
and a woman and comprises children and <strong>the</strong> extended<br />
family members. Laws governing both Muslim and non-<br />
Muslim marriages and <strong>the</strong> family institution have long<br />
been in place in this country.<br />
For <strong>the</strong> Muslims, <strong>the</strong> Islamic Family Law or <strong>the</strong> Syariah<br />
governs all aspects <strong>of</strong> marriage and family. The Syariah<br />
as practised in Malaysia’s family law is based on <strong>the</strong><br />
concept <strong>of</strong> fairness and responsibility and that <strong>the</strong> man is<br />
<strong>the</strong> provider and protector <strong>of</strong> his family. It also recognises<br />
<strong>the</strong> concept <strong>of</strong> shared responsibilities between <strong>the</strong> man<br />
and his wife, as <strong>the</strong> wife is also expected to protect <strong>the</strong><br />
dignity <strong>of</strong> her family, and caring for <strong>the</strong> well being <strong>of</strong> her<br />
family.<br />
The Honourable Prime Minister <strong>of</strong> Malaysia has proposed<br />
a holistic development approach for Malaysia through<br />
<strong>the</strong> promotion <strong>of</strong> Islam Hadhari. Islam Hadhari or<br />
civilisational and comprehensive Islam emphasises <strong>the</strong><br />
importance <strong>of</strong> progress - with an Islamic perspective - in<br />
<strong>the</strong> economic, social and political fi elds. Islam Hadhari<br />
stresses on <strong>the</strong> need for balanced development, which<br />
covers both physical and spiritual development. It is an<br />
approach to foster Islamic civilisation built upon <strong>the</strong> noble<br />
values and ideals <strong>of</strong> Islam, and aims to achieve ten main<br />
principles which Muslim nations and communities must<br />
demonstrate. Incidentally, <strong>the</strong> seventh principle refers<br />
59
60<br />
specifi cally to <strong>the</strong> protection <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> rights <strong>of</strong> minorities<br />
and women.<br />
Women, ladies and gentlemen, deserve specifi c mention<br />
because despite <strong>the</strong> fact that women in many parts <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> world have become more emancipated and certainly<br />
making choices in <strong>the</strong>ir lives, women in many Muslim<br />
countries continue to be marginalised and discriminated<br />
against. In Malaysia, measures have been instituted<br />
towards <strong>the</strong> advancement <strong>of</strong> women and <strong>the</strong> promotion <strong>of</strong><br />
gender justice. In <strong>the</strong> legal domain, various amendments<br />
have been made to <strong>the</strong> respective laws to ensure that<br />
women are not discriminated against, for example <strong>the</strong><br />
inclusion <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> principle <strong>of</strong> non-discrimination into our<br />
Federal Constitution which states that no discrimination<br />
should be made on <strong>the</strong> basis <strong>of</strong> gender.<br />
The family institution in Malaysia, like <strong>the</strong> rest <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
world, is undergoing rapid change. As <strong>the</strong> countries <strong>of</strong><br />
Asia become increasingly industrialised, affl uent, and<br />
integrated into global and communication networks,<br />
<strong>the</strong>re are signs that changes in <strong>the</strong> Asian family pattern<br />
is happening. From <strong>the</strong> family law perspective, confl ict<br />
<strong>of</strong> jurisdiction and confl ict <strong>of</strong> law may give rise to even<br />
more serious consequences such as children who are<br />
not provided for, or <strong>the</strong> status <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir custody which is<br />
uncertain due to want <strong>of</strong> jurisdiction or lack <strong>of</strong> uniformity<br />
<strong>of</strong> rules on confl ict <strong>of</strong> laws to obtain <strong>the</strong> necessary order<br />
or to enforce <strong>the</strong> said order.<br />
It is without doubt that legal developments in <strong>the</strong> fi eld <strong>of</strong><br />
family law have been much infl uenced by external factors.<br />
The need to reform <strong>the</strong> rules <strong>of</strong> jurisdiction over matrimonial<br />
causes and on <strong>the</strong> recognition <strong>of</strong> foreign divorces and<br />
annulments was undoubtedly infl uenced by <strong>the</strong> impact <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> ease <strong>of</strong> foreign travel on <strong>the</strong> ability to form new, and<br />
for some, multiple personal relationships. The explosion<br />
<strong>of</strong> decisions on child abduction is readily attributable<br />
to <strong>the</strong> same ease, and <strong>the</strong> diminishing real cost, <strong>of</strong> air<br />
travel. It is in this one area <strong>of</strong> private international law that<br />
changes in <strong>the</strong> rules concerning family law has brought<br />
an increase in litigation ra<strong>the</strong>r than having <strong>the</strong> opposite<br />
effect <strong>of</strong> reducing litigation.<br />
In light <strong>of</strong> this, ladies and gentlemen, it is important that<br />
<strong>the</strong> legal system <strong>of</strong> today be developed to provide <strong>the</strong><br />
appropriate legal solutions to ensure that in <strong>the</strong> event <strong>of</strong><br />
deterioration in <strong>the</strong> family relationship, <strong>the</strong> interests <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> children <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> marriage would not in any manner<br />
be adversely affected or prejudiced. Indeed, it is our<br />
obligation now to ensure that children are given <strong>the</strong>ir<br />
rights, protected from any danger, and have all <strong>the</strong><br />
opportunity to grow in a conducive environment.<br />
Ladies and Gentlemen,<br />
Flowing from <strong>the</strong>se developments due recognition and<br />
acknowledgement should be given to <strong>the</strong> hard work and<br />
valuable contribution made by <strong>the</strong> Hague Conference<br />
on Private International Law in formulating and<br />
promoting <strong>the</strong> conventions on international family law,<br />
particularly <strong>the</strong> conventions concerning <strong>the</strong> protection<br />
<strong>of</strong> children. Their work thus far, would certainly be most<br />
advantageous and benefi cial to <strong>the</strong> region <strong>of</strong> Asia-Pacifi c<br />
in its efforts to streamline and unify <strong>the</strong> various rules <strong>of</strong><br />
private international law on <strong>the</strong>se matters. It is a diffi cult<br />
and complex process and requires all our cooperation<br />
and goodwill in making it a success.<br />
A Convention that has been praised by academics,<br />
lawyers and judges as one <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> most successful<br />
conventions prepared within <strong>the</strong> Hague Conference<br />
on Private International Law is <strong>the</strong> Convention on <strong>the</strong><br />
Civil Aspects <strong>of</strong> International Child Abduction 1980. The<br />
principal objective <strong>of</strong> this Convention, as you well know,<br />
is to secure <strong>the</strong> prompt return <strong>of</strong> children wrongfully<br />
removed to or retained in any Contracting State under<br />
<strong>the</strong> most speedy procedures possible. The Convention<br />
refl ects <strong>the</strong> principle that any dispute on <strong>the</strong> question <strong>of</strong><br />
custody or residence <strong>of</strong> a child should take place before<br />
<strong>the</strong> competent authorities in <strong>the</strong> State where <strong>the</strong> child<br />
had his or her habitual residence prior to removal.<br />
International parental abduction can be extremely<br />
traumatic for both <strong>the</strong> abducted child and <strong>the</strong> parent<br />
left-behind. Child victims <strong>of</strong>ten experience symptoms <strong>of</strong><br />
serious emotional distress and may be forced to live a life<br />
less complete. Risks <strong>of</strong> harm and trauma to <strong>the</strong> child will<br />
vary depending on <strong>the</strong> method, motives and character<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> abductor. The existence <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Convention has<br />
greatly increased <strong>the</strong> chances <strong>of</strong> success <strong>of</strong> a child<br />
being returned to its country <strong>of</strong> habitual residence.
Never<strong>the</strong>less, for Muslims, <strong>the</strong>re are concerns regarding<br />
<strong>the</strong> rights <strong>of</strong> custody, and <strong>of</strong> access, being consistent with<br />
Syariah law. Under <strong>the</strong> Convention, custody attributed to<br />
a person, an institution or any o<strong>the</strong>r body under <strong>the</strong> law<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> State <strong>of</strong> habitual resident <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> child is likely not<br />
to be determined in accordance with <strong>the</strong> principles <strong>of</strong><br />
Syariah. The Convention does not provide a defi nition<br />
<strong>of</strong> “habitual residence” and it is <strong>the</strong>refore subject to <strong>the</strong><br />
domestic law <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> State where <strong>the</strong> child is physically<br />
resident in.<br />
Ano<strong>the</strong>r laudable effort is <strong>the</strong> Working Draft <strong>of</strong> A<br />
Convention on <strong>the</strong> International Recovery <strong>of</strong> Child<br />
Support and O<strong>the</strong>r Forms <strong>of</strong> Family Maintenance as<br />
it attempts to provide for international administrative<br />
cooperation between countries for <strong>the</strong> recovery <strong>of</strong><br />
child support and o<strong>the</strong>r forms <strong>of</strong> family maintenance.<br />
However, again for <strong>the</strong> Muslims, it is important for this<br />
Convention to recognise <strong>the</strong> principles relating to <strong>the</strong><br />
basis <strong>of</strong> maintenance imposed by Islamic law because<br />
<strong>the</strong> orders for maintenance would also be enforceable<br />
on <strong>the</strong> Muslims subjects under this Convention.<br />
The implementation <strong>of</strong> this Convention has to be <strong>the</strong><br />
subject <strong>of</strong> careful consideration by <strong>the</strong> Muslim States<br />
and <strong>the</strong>refore <strong>the</strong>re may be possible reservations on<br />
matters that are contrary to <strong>the</strong> Syariah law and to public<br />
interest. The issue relating to <strong>the</strong> primary responsibility<br />
for a child’s maintenance is very interrelated with <strong>the</strong><br />
need for <strong>the</strong> establishment <strong>of</strong> parentage. Under Islamic<br />
law, <strong>the</strong> basis <strong>of</strong> maintenance arises from <strong>the</strong> sanction<br />
<strong>of</strong> a relationship through a valid marriage solemnised<br />
in accordance with Syariah. Thus only wife, or for that<br />
matter, wives and children from that valid marriage are<br />
entitled to claim for maintenance. Affi nity or lineage <strong>of</strong><br />
a child is very important to determine o<strong>the</strong>rs who may<br />
be held responsible for a child’s maintenance, which in<br />
turn is also very dependent on <strong>the</strong> status <strong>of</strong> a marriage<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> child’s parents. Therefore, marital status <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
parents is very important to provide <strong>the</strong> link to claim for<br />
maintenance under Islamic law. To determine parentage<br />
as <strong>the</strong> basis <strong>of</strong> a right to maintenance under Islamic law,<br />
it must be proved that <strong>the</strong> said child is born during <strong>the</strong><br />
continuance <strong>of</strong> a valid marriage.<br />
Ladies and Gentlemen,<br />
You have three days to hash all <strong>the</strong>se issues and more.<br />
This Seminar provides a golden opportunity for legal<br />
experts from countries in <strong>the</strong> Asia-Pacifi c region to meet<br />
with o<strong>the</strong>rs to discuss and deliberate on jurisdictional<br />
issues and <strong>the</strong> interpretation and application <strong>of</strong> laws<br />
in matrimonial matters, especially concerning children<br />
and maintenance obligations, while taking into account<br />
<strong>the</strong> requirements <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Syariah. Therefore, I would<br />
like to record our gratitude to <strong>the</strong> <strong>Attorney</strong>-General’s<br />
<strong>Chambers</strong> <strong>of</strong> Malaysia and <strong>the</strong> Hague Conference on<br />
Private International Law for including three conventions<br />
on topics covering children and family in <strong>the</strong> programme<br />
for this Seminar. The Ministry <strong>of</strong> Women, Family and<br />
Community Development will defi nitely benefi t from this<br />
Seminar to help us in <strong>the</strong> challenges ahead.<br />
Finally, I would like to congratulate <strong>the</strong> <strong>Attorney</strong>-<br />
General’s <strong>Chambers</strong> <strong>of</strong> Malaysia for <strong>the</strong> excellent work<br />
in undertaking a detailed study <strong>of</strong> selected Conventions<br />
and for organising this Seminar towards possible<br />
accession by Malaysia, and perhaps by o<strong>the</strong>r States<br />
present here today which have yet to become Parties<br />
to <strong>the</strong> Conventions. I wish to thank all participants who<br />
are here to provide <strong>the</strong>ir inputs and views during this<br />
Seminar. I am very confi dent that <strong>the</strong> outcome <strong>of</strong> this<br />
Seminar will help promote closer regional cooperation<br />
as we arrive at a better understanding <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> issues<br />
and concerns <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> States present at this Seminar, and<br />
indeed, in <strong>the</strong> implementation <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Conventions. I wish<br />
you a productive and successful deliberation.<br />
Thank you.<br />
61
REPORT OF THE SEMINAR ON AN INTRODUCTION<br />
TO THE HAGUE CONVENTION<br />
FOSTERING THE RULE OF LAW IN CROSS-BORDER/<br />
TRANSNATIONAL CIVIL AND COMMERCIAL<br />
RELATIONS IN THE ASIA PACIFIC<br />
Monday, 22 August 2005<br />
1. The Seminar began with a presentation on an<br />
introduction to <strong>the</strong> Hague Conference on Private<br />
International Law (HCPIL) by Dr. Christophe<br />
Bernasconi, <strong>the</strong> First Secretary <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> HCPIL. This<br />
was followed by presentations on <strong>the</strong> following:<br />
The <strong>Attorney</strong> General and Solicitor General welcoming <strong>the</strong> arrival <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Minister <strong>of</strong><br />
Law, The Honourable Dato’ Seri Mohamad Radzi Sheikh Ahmad and <strong>the</strong> Minister <strong>of</strong><br />
Women, Family and Community Development, The Honourable Dato’ Seri Shahrizat<br />
Abdul Jalil.<br />
(i) Convention Abolishing <strong>the</strong> Requirement <strong>of</strong><br />
Legalisation for Foreign Public Documents (<strong>the</strong><br />
Apostille Convention)<br />
The Convention Abolishing <strong>the</strong> Requirement <strong>of</strong><br />
Legalisation for Foreign Public Documents was<br />
concluded on 5 October 1961 and entered into<br />
force on 24 January 1965. Legalisation refers<br />
to <strong>the</strong> formality and procedure by which <strong>the</strong><br />
diplomatic or consular agents <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> country where<br />
<strong>the</strong> document is to be produced for use to certify<br />
<strong>the</strong> au<strong>the</strong>nticity <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> signature, <strong>the</strong> capacity in<br />
which <strong>the</strong> person signing <strong>the</strong> document has acted<br />
and, where appropriate, <strong>the</strong> identity <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> seal or<br />
stamp which it bears in order for <strong>the</strong> documents<br />
to be accepted for use by <strong>the</strong> country where <strong>the</strong><br />
document is produced. The procedures required<br />
by different states for purposes <strong>of</strong> legalisation <strong>of</strong><br />
a document are different from state to state. This<br />
results in inconvenience when a document from<br />
one state is required for use in ano<strong>the</strong>r state, and<br />
<strong>the</strong> process is time-consuming.<br />
Fur<strong>the</strong>rmore, <strong>the</strong> legalisation process makes <strong>the</strong><br />
legalized public document valid for use only in <strong>the</strong><br />
country for which <strong>the</strong> legalisation is sought and not<br />
in any o<strong>the</strong>r country.<br />
Therefore, <strong>the</strong> objective <strong>of</strong> this Convention is to<br />
abolish <strong>the</strong> legalization process at a considerable<br />
extent, by standardizing <strong>the</strong> practice among Member<br />
States, in order to speed up <strong>the</strong> international judicial<br />
process. This Convention is also known as Apostille<br />
Convention, whereby <strong>the</strong> word ‘Apostille’ refers to a<br />
certifi cate issued by <strong>the</strong> HCPIL.<br />
63<br />
The Honourable Minister <strong>of</strong> Law, <strong>the</strong> Honourable Minister <strong>of</strong> Women, Family<br />
and Community Development and <strong>the</strong> <strong>Attorney</strong> General toge<strong>the</strong>r with <strong>the</strong> First<br />
Secretary <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> HCPIL on stage for <strong>the</strong> Opening Ceremony <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Seminar.<br />
(ii) Convention on <strong>the</strong> Service Abroad <strong>of</strong> Judicial and<br />
Extrajudicial Documents in Civil or Commercial<br />
Matters (<strong>the</strong> Service Convention); and<br />
The Convention on <strong>the</strong> Service Abroad <strong>of</strong> Judicial<br />
and Extrajudicial Documents in Civil or Commercial<br />
Matters was concluded on 15 November 1965<br />
and entered into force on 10 February 1969. The
64<br />
Dr. Christophe Bernasconi, First Secretary <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> HCPIL taking<br />
questions from <strong>the</strong> fl oor.<br />
purpose <strong>of</strong> this Convention is to expedite <strong>the</strong> service<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> foreign process i.e. <strong>the</strong> service <strong>of</strong> judicial<br />
and extrajudicial documents in civil or commercial<br />
matters by designating a Central Authority in each<br />
Contracting State for co-ordination.<br />
(iii) Convention on <strong>the</strong> Taking <strong>of</strong> Evidence Abroad in Civil<br />
or Commercial Matters (<strong>the</strong> Evidence Convention).<br />
The Convention on <strong>the</strong> Taking <strong>of</strong> Evidence Abroad<br />
in Civil or Commercial Matters was concluded<br />
on 18 March 1970 and entered into force on 7<br />
October 1972. In essence, this Convention seeks to<br />
facilitate <strong>the</strong> transmission and execution <strong>of</strong> Letters<br />
<strong>of</strong> Request by designating a Central Authority in<br />
each Contracting State for co-ordination. This<br />
Convention also provides for a Chapter on <strong>the</strong><br />
powers <strong>of</strong> a diplomatic <strong>of</strong>fi cer or a consular agent<br />
<strong>of</strong> a Contracting State or a Commissioner appointed<br />
for <strong>the</strong> purpose <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> taking <strong>of</strong> evidence, to take<br />
evidence without compulsion in aid <strong>of</strong> proceedings<br />
in civil or commercial matters.<br />
(i)<br />
(ii)<br />
Whe<strong>the</strong>r <strong>the</strong>re are States that have breached<br />
<strong>the</strong> Conventions and what are <strong>the</strong> actions which<br />
can be taken by <strong>the</strong> HCPIL in this event. In <strong>the</strong><br />
reply, it was noted that <strong>general</strong>ly <strong>the</strong>re is good<br />
compliance <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Conventions by <strong>the</strong> Contracting<br />
States. Contracting States do not, as such, breach<br />
<strong>the</strong> Conventions but <strong>the</strong>re are disparities as to<br />
<strong>the</strong> interpretation <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Conventions. In order to<br />
reach uniformity <strong>of</strong> operation <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Conventions,<br />
exchange <strong>of</strong> information is an important process.<br />
The HCPIL also conducts dialogues with Contracting<br />
States to identify <strong>the</strong> source <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir problems<br />
and explore ways <strong>of</strong> overcoming implementation<br />
related problems i.e. by giving <strong>the</strong>m advice and<br />
guidance.<br />
On <strong>the</strong> status <strong>of</strong> private documents submitted for<br />
<strong>the</strong> issuance <strong>of</strong> an Apostille, <strong>general</strong>ly, Apostilles<br />
are not issued for private documents. However, if<br />
such documents are submitted to a Notary Public,<br />
who <strong>the</strong>n notarizes <strong>the</strong> private documents, <strong>the</strong><br />
notarization amounts to a notary act falling under<br />
2. Several issues and matters were raised during <strong>the</strong><br />
Question and Answer (Q & A) session and <strong>the</strong>se are<br />
as follows:
<strong>the</strong> Apostille Convention. Hence, an Apostille can<br />
be issued to certify <strong>the</strong> signature, stamp and seal<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Notary Public.<br />
(iii) Questions were posed as to <strong>the</strong> possible liability<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> competent authority in respect <strong>of</strong> Apostilles<br />
issued, and <strong>the</strong> means <strong>of</strong> verifying <strong>the</strong> origin <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> public document, especially old documents<br />
(where <strong>the</strong> originator or signatory is no longer<br />
alive), for purposes <strong>of</strong> issuing an Apostille. On<br />
<strong>the</strong> former, liability <strong>of</strong> a competent authority is left<br />
to national law and it was emphasized that <strong>the</strong><br />
Apostille Convention does not, in effect, certify <strong>the</strong><br />
correctness <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> content <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> document. As<br />
to <strong>the</strong> latter, <strong>the</strong> Apostille Convention is designed<br />
to certify only <strong>the</strong> signature, seal and stamp <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> persons acting in public capacity and if<br />
<strong>the</strong>re is no means for <strong>the</strong> competent authority<br />
to verify <strong>the</strong> origin <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> document, an Apostille<br />
should not be issued. If a list <strong>of</strong> signature <strong>of</strong><br />
notaries and registrars could be transferred<br />
to <strong>the</strong> competent authority, <strong>the</strong>n a document<br />
submitted for apostillization could be verifi ed<br />
against such a list. One Contracting State has set<br />
in place an electronic compilation <strong>of</strong> signatures<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>of</strong>fi cials from public bodies and documents for<br />
apostillization could be verifi ed by simply running<br />
through <strong>the</strong> list <strong>of</strong> electronic signatures.<br />
(iv) On <strong>the</strong> issue <strong>of</strong> documents under <strong>the</strong> Apostille<br />
Convention, <strong>the</strong> Contracting States defi ne <strong>the</strong><br />
scope <strong>of</strong> documents which could be apostillised<br />
and <strong>the</strong>refore falling within <strong>the</strong> scope <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
Apostille Convention according to <strong>the</strong>ir own<br />
domestic laws. This leads to differing views <strong>of</strong><br />
what constitutes a “public document” under <strong>the</strong><br />
Apostille Convention.<br />
(v)<br />
Concerning <strong>the</strong> Apostille Convention, it was<br />
reiterated by Dr. Bernasconi that <strong>the</strong> objective<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Apostille Convention is to certify <strong>the</strong> origin<br />
<strong>of</strong> a public document (i.e. <strong>the</strong> au<strong>the</strong>nticity <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> signature, <strong>the</strong> capacity in which <strong>the</strong> person<br />
signing <strong>the</strong> document has acted and <strong>the</strong> identity<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> seal/stamp which <strong>the</strong> document bears); it<br />
does not relate to <strong>the</strong> content <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> document<br />
itself.<br />
(vi) The current text <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Apostille Convention does<br />
not hinder <strong>the</strong> application <strong>of</strong> e-technology such as<br />
<strong>the</strong> setting up <strong>of</strong> an e-Register and <strong>the</strong> issuance <strong>of</strong><br />
e-Apostilles. However, <strong>the</strong>re are several scenarios<br />
where States have to be vigilant and cautious in<br />
<strong>the</strong> application <strong>of</strong> e-technology (refer to <strong>the</strong> power<br />
point presentation by Dr. Bernasconi).<br />
(vii) Recommendations were made to <strong>the</strong> effect that if a<br />
Contracting State intends to issue e-Apostilles, <strong>the</strong><br />
necessary measures to ensure a secure electronic<br />
environment should be in place and that <strong>the</strong><br />
verifi cation process <strong>of</strong> public documents should<br />
be conducted by an independent Certifi cation<br />
Authority.<br />
3. This session was followed by <strong>the</strong> sharing <strong>of</strong><br />
experience session during which <strong>the</strong> panelists from<br />
Brunei, Singapore, <strong>the</strong> People’s Republic <strong>of</strong> China<br />
(PR <strong>of</strong> China), Hong Kong Special Administrative<br />
Region <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> PR <strong>of</strong> China (Hong Kong SAR),<br />
Turkey and Australia raised <strong>the</strong> following issues,<br />
concerns and views:<br />
Brunei<br />
4. Brunei is a party to <strong>the</strong> Apostille Convention which<br />
was inherited from <strong>the</strong> British rule. In <strong>the</strong> course<br />
<strong>of</strong> implementing its obligation under <strong>the</strong> said<br />
Convention, <strong>the</strong> panelist from Brunei has noted <strong>the</strong><br />
following:<br />
65
Singapore<br />
5. Singapore acceded to <strong>the</strong> Evidence Convention<br />
on 27 October 1978 with some reservations and<br />
declarations notifi ed in accordance with Article<br />
42(e) (refer to <strong>the</strong> power point presentation by <strong>the</strong><br />
Singaporean panelist).<br />
The delegation from Brunei, from left : <strong>the</strong> Honourable Dato’ Seri Paduka<br />
Haji Kifrawi Dato’ Paduka Haji Kifl i, <strong>Attorney</strong> – General <strong>of</strong> Brunei, and Mr. Pg.<br />
Kasmirhan Pg. Haji Tahir, <strong>the</strong> Principal Counsel and Head <strong>of</strong> International<br />
Law Division.<br />
(i)<br />
Singapore also raised, inter alia, <strong>the</strong> following<br />
diffi culties it has encountered in executing Letters<br />
<strong>of</strong> Request (LOR) under <strong>the</strong> Evidence Convention:<br />
(a)<br />
The LOR was not translated into <strong>the</strong> English<br />
language.<br />
66<br />
(i)<br />
It is easier for smaller nations like Brunei to<br />
designate one competent authority as opposed<br />
to States with multi-level Government systems<br />
which would have to designate several competent<br />
authorities.<br />
(ii) In terms <strong>of</strong> e-technology, a legislative framework<br />
must be established to recognize e-Records and<br />
e-Signatures. It was noted that prior to formulating<br />
such enabling legislation, <strong>the</strong> need to establish <strong>the</strong><br />
necessary infrastructure may pose a challenge to<br />
developing countries with limited resources.<br />
(b)<br />
(c)<br />
(d)<br />
The LOR did not state <strong>the</strong> nature <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
proceedings in <strong>the</strong> foreign court; particulars<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> parties to <strong>the</strong> foreign proceedings<br />
were not given; evidence to be obtained<br />
from <strong>the</strong> witness was not specifi ed; and <strong>the</strong><br />
list <strong>of</strong> questions for <strong>the</strong> examination was<br />
not provided.<br />
Particulars <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> whereabouts <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
witness in Singapore were not given.<br />
Failure to locate <strong>the</strong> witness in<br />
Singapore.<br />
(iii) Brunei is currently drafting an enabling legislation<br />
on <strong>the</strong> Apostille Convention with a view <strong>of</strong> clarifying<br />
some aspects <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Convention such as providing<br />
a defi nition <strong>of</strong> “public documents” and possible<br />
imposition <strong>of</strong> penal sanctions for forgeries. In<br />
addition, efforts are under way to establish a<br />
legislative framework to recognize e-Signatures<br />
and e-Records towards future issuance <strong>of</strong> e-<br />
Apostilles and e-Register.<br />
(iv) Brunei proposes to persuade o<strong>the</strong>r ASEAN<br />
countries to accede to <strong>the</strong> Apostille Convention at<br />
<strong>the</strong> forthcoming 10 th . ASEAN Senior Law Offi cials<br />
Meeting (ASLOM) to be held in Hanoi from 15 - 21<br />
September 2005.<br />
(e)<br />
The type <strong>of</strong> assistance required falls outside<br />
<strong>the</strong> scope <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Evidence Convention, for<br />
example, a request that an investigation<br />
The delegation from Singapore headed by <strong>the</strong> <strong>Attorney</strong> – General,<br />
<strong>the</strong> Honourable Mr. Chan Sek Keong.
(ii)<br />
(f)<br />
be carried out into <strong>the</strong> housing or living<br />
conditions <strong>of</strong> a child who is <strong>the</strong> subject<br />
<strong>of</strong> custody proceedings, or for service <strong>of</strong><br />
documents.<br />
The documents requested were not<br />
suffi ciently described or were described<br />
in such a vague or <strong>general</strong> manner as<br />
to appear to be an attempt for pre-trial<br />
discovery.<br />
In respect <strong>of</strong> documents accompanying <strong>the</strong> LOR<br />
which have not been translated, or where <strong>the</strong>re is<br />
insuffi cient information/particulars <strong>of</strong> documents,<br />
Singapore has invoked Article 13 <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Evidence<br />
Convention (reasons for non-execution is conveyed<br />
to <strong>the</strong> Requesting Authority).<br />
The PR <strong>of</strong> China<br />
6. The PR <strong>of</strong> China ratifi ed <strong>the</strong> Service Convention in<br />
1991 and <strong>the</strong> Evidence Convention in 1997 with<br />
designations, declarations and notifi cations made<br />
for both Conventions. The panelist from <strong>the</strong> PR <strong>of</strong><br />
China made <strong>the</strong> following comments:<br />
(i)<br />
The main problems in <strong>the</strong> implementation<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Service Convention in China are as<br />
follows:<br />
(a) The period <strong>of</strong> executing a request is<br />
lengthy.<br />
(b) Some States do not submit <strong>the</strong>ir<br />
requests in accordance with <strong>the</strong><br />
provisions <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Service Convention<br />
(i.e. no accompanying translation/<br />
insuffi cient documents).<br />
(ii)<br />
(iii)<br />
The main problems in <strong>the</strong> implementation<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Evidence Convention in China are as<br />
follows:<br />
Hong Kong SAR<br />
(a) The period <strong>of</strong> executing a request is<br />
lengthy.<br />
(b) In cases where a Requesting State<br />
requires an affi davit for <strong>the</strong> taking <strong>of</strong><br />
evidence from a witness, <strong>the</strong> PR <strong>of</strong><br />
China is unable to comply with <strong>the</strong><br />
request as <strong>the</strong>re are no legal provisions<br />
on this matter.<br />
The PR <strong>of</strong> China explained that presently,<br />
requests submitted by way <strong>of</strong> private<br />
courier service are not accepted as<br />
<strong>the</strong>ir civil procedure law only recognises<br />
requests submitted through <strong>of</strong>fi cial/diplomatic<br />
channels.<br />
7. The Service Convention was fi rst extended to<br />
Hong Kong by <strong>the</strong> United Kingdom in 1970 and it<br />
continued to apply to Hong Kong SAR after 1 July<br />
1997. The Evidence Convention was fi rst extended<br />
to Hong Kong by <strong>the</strong> United Kingdom in 1978 and<br />
it also continued to apply to Hong Kong SAR after<br />
1 July 1997. The panelist from Hong Kong SAR<br />
fur<strong>the</strong>r explained as follows:<br />
67<br />
(c)<br />
The certifi cate <strong>of</strong> service issued by <strong>the</strong><br />
PR <strong>of</strong> China has no accompanying<br />
translation in English or French which<br />
makes it diffi cult for <strong>the</strong> Requesting<br />
Courts to know whe<strong>the</strong>r <strong>the</strong> documents<br />
have been served.<br />
The delegation from Hong Kong headed by <strong>the</strong> Law Offi cer <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Department<br />
<strong>of</strong> Justice, Mr. Ian Wingfi eld.
(i)<br />
The Chief Secretary <strong>of</strong> Administration is <strong>the</strong><br />
competent authority under Article 18 <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Service<br />
Convention while <strong>the</strong> Registrar <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> High Court is<br />
<strong>the</strong> competent authority under Article s 6 and 9 <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> same Convention. The rules governing service<br />
abroad and service <strong>of</strong> process from a place outside<br />
Hong Kong are set out in Orders 11 and 69 <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
Rules <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> High Court (Cap 4A <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Laws <strong>of</strong><br />
Hong Kong) respectively.<br />
33 (Letters <strong>of</strong> Request in <strong>the</strong> French language<br />
will not be accepted).<br />
68<br />
(ii)<br />
(iii)<br />
(iv)<br />
Hong Kong SAR has made several reservations as<br />
regards <strong>the</strong> Service Convention. Under paragraph<br />
2 <strong>of</strong> Article 8, <strong>the</strong> means <strong>of</strong> service referred to<br />
in paragraph 1 <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Article may be used within<br />
<strong>the</strong> Hong Kong SAR only when <strong>the</strong> document<br />
is to be served upon a national <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> State in<br />
which <strong>the</strong> document originates. With reference to<br />
paragraphs (b) and (c) <strong>of</strong> Article 10, documents for<br />
service through <strong>of</strong>fi cial channels will be accepted<br />
in Hong Kong SAR only by <strong>the</strong> CA or o<strong>the</strong>r authority<br />
designated, and only from judicial, consular or<br />
diplomatic <strong>of</strong>fi cers <strong>of</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r Contracting States.<br />
As for <strong>the</strong> Evidence Convention, <strong>the</strong> Administrative<br />
Secretary <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Government <strong>of</strong> Hong Kong SAR<br />
is <strong>the</strong> competent authority under Article 17<br />
while <strong>the</strong> Registrar <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> High Court is <strong>the</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r<br />
competent authority under Article 24 to receive<br />
Letters <strong>of</strong> Request for execution in Hong Kong<br />
SAR. The rules dealing with Letters <strong>of</strong> Request<br />
from o<strong>the</strong>r jurisdictions are set out in Part VIII<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Evidence Ordinance (Cap 8 <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Laws<br />
<strong>of</strong> Hong Kong). The rules governing issuance <strong>of</strong><br />
Letters <strong>of</strong> Request from Hong Kong are provided<br />
for in Order 39, rules 2 and 3 <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Rules <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
High Court.<br />
The declarations applicable to Hong Kong SAR<br />
under <strong>the</strong> Evidence Convention are with reference<br />
to Article 16 (diplomatic <strong>of</strong>fi cer or consular agent<br />
<strong>of</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r Contracting State will not be permitted<br />
to take evidence <strong>of</strong> nationals <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> PR <strong>of</strong> China<br />
or <strong>of</strong> a third State in Hong Kong SAR), Article<br />
23 (Hong Kong SAR will not execute Letters <strong>of</strong><br />
Request issued for <strong>the</strong> purpose <strong>of</strong> obtaining pretrial<br />
discovery <strong>of</strong> documents), and Articles 4 and<br />
Turkey<br />
Judge from Turkey, Ms. Ilknur Altuntas.<br />
8. Turkey is a Contracting State to all three<br />
Conventions discussed during this session.<br />
(i)<br />
(ii)<br />
The Apostille Convention came into force for Turkey<br />
on 29 September 1985 without any reservations.<br />
Turkey has not encountered any diffi culty in<br />
implementing this Convention, as it becomes part<br />
<strong>of</strong> Turkish law after <strong>the</strong> approval process under<br />
Article 90 <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Turkish Constitution.<br />
As regards <strong>the</strong> Evidence Convention, it came<br />
into force for Turkey on 12 October 2004 with<br />
reservations and declarations on Article 4 (LOR to<br />
be in Turkish or to be accompanied by a Turkish<br />
translation), Articles 16 and 17 (<strong>the</strong> Ministry <strong>of</strong><br />
Justice has been designated as <strong>the</strong> competent<br />
authority to grant permission under <strong>the</strong>se Articles)<br />
and Article 23 (on refusal to execute LOR issued<br />
for <strong>the</strong> purpose <strong>of</strong> obtaining pre-trial discovery <strong>of</strong><br />
documents as known in common law countries).<br />
The Central Authority (CA) for <strong>the</strong> application <strong>of</strong> this<br />
Convention for Turkey is <strong>the</strong> General Directorate<br />
<strong>of</strong> International Law and Foreign Relations <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> Ministry <strong>of</strong> Justice and implementation is<br />
executed through <strong>the</strong> local Public Prosecution<br />
Offi ces.
(iii)<br />
Australia<br />
The Service Convention came into force for Turkey<br />
on 28 April 1972. The CA and <strong>the</strong> implementing<br />
agency for this Convention are <strong>the</strong> same as<br />
for <strong>the</strong> Evidence Convention. Turkey has made<br />
objections under Article 21(2)(a) to <strong>the</strong> use <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> methods <strong>of</strong> transmission provided for under<br />
Articles 8 (service through diplomatic or consular<br />
agents) and 10 (direct service on <strong>the</strong> nationals <strong>of</strong><br />
Member States without going through <strong>the</strong> Central<br />
Authority) <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Service Convention.<br />
9. The Australian panelist informed participants <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> Seminar that Australia recognizes <strong>the</strong> efforts<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> HCPIL towards <strong>the</strong> unifi cation <strong>of</strong> key<br />
areas <strong>of</strong> private international law. The work <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> HCPIL is <strong>of</strong> increasing importance given <strong>the</strong><br />
impact <strong>of</strong> globalization and <strong>the</strong> proliferation <strong>of</strong> e-<br />
Technology in international transactions. Actions<br />
by private citizens, companies and associations to<br />
enforce <strong>the</strong>ir legal rights in a foreign jurisdiction<br />
or against a foreign national may be taken in a<br />
more effi cient and less costly manner thanks to<br />
<strong>the</strong> work <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> HCPIL, particularly through <strong>the</strong><br />
Judicial Assistance Conventions.<br />
10. As regards <strong>the</strong> three Conventions presented -<br />
(i)<br />
Australia acceded to <strong>the</strong> Apostille Convention on<br />
11 July 1994 and this Convention entered into<br />
force for Australia on 16 March 1995. Although<br />
Australian law does not require legalisation<br />
<strong>of</strong> foreign documents, this Convention saves<br />
(ii)<br />
(iii)<br />
Q & A<br />
Australian residents time and money where <strong>the</strong>y<br />
need, for <strong>the</strong> purposes <strong>of</strong> a foreign law, to have a<br />
document legalised. Australia’s designated CA is<br />
<strong>the</strong> Department <strong>of</strong> Foreign Affairs and Trade.<br />
Australia is not a party to <strong>the</strong> Service Convention<br />
and relies on bilateral treaties entered with o<strong>the</strong>r<br />
countries and international comity to effect<br />
service.<br />
Australia acceded to <strong>the</strong> Evidence Convention<br />
on 23 October 1992 and it entered into force<br />
on 22 December 1992. The Secretary <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
Commonwealth <strong>Attorney</strong> General’s Department<br />
has been designated as <strong>the</strong> CA and <strong>the</strong> Registrars<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> State and Territory Supreme Courts as<br />
Additional Authorities. The Australian panelist<br />
noted that this Convention does not operate in a<br />
legal vacuum. For example <strong>the</strong>re is <strong>the</strong> issue <strong>of</strong><br />
whe<strong>the</strong>r evidence taken by way <strong>of</strong> subpoenas or<br />
video/audio is admissible in foreign countries.<br />
11. The issues discussed during <strong>the</strong> Q & A on <strong>the</strong><br />
sharing <strong>of</strong> experience session are as follows:<br />
(i)<br />
In relation to <strong>the</strong> Service Convention, <strong>the</strong> issue<br />
<strong>of</strong> some Contracting States interpreting <strong>the</strong><br />
term “judicial <strong>of</strong>fi cer”/”o<strong>the</strong>r competent <strong>of</strong>fi cer”<br />
as permitting <strong>the</strong> contracting out <strong>of</strong> services to<br />
private companies (for example, <strong>the</strong> appointment<br />
<strong>of</strong> a private company by <strong>the</strong> competent authority<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> United States <strong>of</strong> America to execute <strong>the</strong><br />
service <strong>of</strong> documents with a fee) was raised.<br />
According to Dr. Bernasconi, this issue has been<br />
considered before, and <strong>the</strong> practice <strong>of</strong> outsourcing<br />
<strong>the</strong> service <strong>of</strong> foreign process is acceptable in so<br />
far as <strong>the</strong> charges imposed cover actual costs and<br />
not for <strong>the</strong> purposes <strong>of</strong> commercial earnings. In<br />
fact, <strong>the</strong> outsourcing <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> service <strong>of</strong> documents<br />
with a fee in <strong>the</strong> United States <strong>of</strong> America has<br />
resulted in improvement in <strong>the</strong> speed <strong>of</strong> servicing<br />
documents.<br />
69<br />
Dr. Ali Reza Deihim, Deputy Secretary – General <strong>of</strong> AALCO and delegates<br />
from Australia listening to <strong>the</strong> presentations.<br />
(ii)<br />
The issue <strong>of</strong> costs and recovery <strong>of</strong> costs under<br />
<strong>the</strong> Evidence Convention.
Summing Up<br />
12. The Moderator concluded that <strong>the</strong> Conventions discussed on <strong>the</strong><br />
fi rst day <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Seminar, especially <strong>the</strong> Apostille Convention, are<br />
quite effective as <strong>the</strong>y simplify <strong>the</strong> procedures, and are cost and<br />
time effective.<br />
13. The Moderator also questioned whe<strong>the</strong>r it was <strong>the</strong> intention <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> drafters <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Service Convention to allow privatisation <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
execution <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> service process and if so, whe<strong>the</strong>r certain fees<br />
only should be recoverable.<br />
70<br />
Tuesday, 23 August 2005 (Morning Session)<br />
14. The second day <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Seminar continued with presentations by Ms.<br />
Caroline Harnois, <strong>the</strong> Legal Offi cer <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> HCPIL on <strong>the</strong> following<br />
Conventions:<br />
(i)<br />
Convention on <strong>the</strong> Civil Aspects <strong>of</strong> International Child Abduction<br />
(<strong>the</strong> Child Abduction Convention); and<br />
The Hague Convention on <strong>the</strong> Civil Aspects <strong>of</strong> International Child Abduction<br />
was adopted on 24 October 1980 and entered into force on 1 December<br />
1983. The objectives <strong>of</strong> this Convention are to secure <strong>the</strong> prompt return<br />
<strong>of</strong> children wrongfully removed to or retained in any Contracting State;<br />
and to ensure that rights <strong>of</strong> custody and <strong>of</strong> access under <strong>the</strong> law <strong>of</strong><br />
one Contracting State are effectively respected in <strong>the</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r Contracting<br />
States.<br />
Presentation by Ms. Caroline Harnois,<br />
Legal Offi cer <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> HCPIL on <strong>the</strong> second<br />
day <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Seminar.<br />
This Convention seeks to provide for <strong>the</strong> protection <strong>of</strong> children through<br />
judicial and administrative cooperation among Contracting States in<br />
order to locate and return children who have been wrongfully taken from<br />
custody to <strong>the</strong> State where <strong>the</strong>y were taken from. This Convention does<br />
not deal with issues <strong>of</strong> custody; any dispute on <strong>the</strong> question <strong>of</strong> custody<br />
or residence <strong>of</strong> a child should be decided by <strong>the</strong> competent authorities <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> State where <strong>the</strong> child is habitually resident prior to <strong>the</strong> removal.
This Convention applies to any child who was habitually resident in a Contracting State<br />
immediately before any breach <strong>of</strong> custody or access rights, and it ceases to apply when <strong>the</strong><br />
child attains <strong>the</strong> age <strong>of</strong> 16 years.<br />
(ii)<br />
Convention on Jurisdiction, Applicable Law, Recognition, Enforcement and Co-operation in<br />
Respect <strong>of</strong> Parental Responsibility and Measures for <strong>the</strong> Protection <strong>of</strong> Children (<strong>the</strong> Parental<br />
Responsibility Convention).<br />
The Convention on Jurisdiction, Applicable Law, Recognition, Enforcement and Co-operation in<br />
respect <strong>of</strong> Parental Responsibility and Measures for <strong>the</strong> Protection <strong>of</strong> Children was concluded<br />
on 19 October 1996 and entered into force on 1 January 2002. This Convention provides for a<br />
mechanism to improve measures and international co-operation for <strong>the</strong> protection <strong>of</strong> children<br />
which includes both protection <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir person and <strong>the</strong>ir property in international situations.<br />
This Convention purports to achieve this by providing for a uniform approach among all<br />
Contracting States to determine <strong>the</strong> State whose authorities have jurisdiction to take measures<br />
directed to <strong>the</strong> protection <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> person or property <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> child; determine which law is to be<br />
applied by such authorities in exercising <strong>the</strong>ir jurisdiction; and determine <strong>the</strong> law applicable to<br />
parental responsibility.<br />
In addition, this Convention provides for <strong>the</strong> recognition and enforcement <strong>of</strong> such measures <strong>of</strong><br />
protection in all Contracting States, and by encouraging cooperation between <strong>the</strong> authorities <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> Contracting States as may be necessary.<br />
71<br />
15. The issues and concerns raised and discussed during <strong>the</strong> Q & A are as follows:<br />
(i)<br />
(ii)<br />
The effective functioning <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Child Abduction Convention requires, inter alia, <strong>the</strong> need for<br />
speed at all stages <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> return process i.e. during <strong>the</strong> processing <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> application by <strong>the</strong><br />
CA, <strong>the</strong> fi rst instance hearing <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> application, any appeal procedures and at <strong>the</strong> stage <strong>of</strong><br />
enforcement <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> return order. In this respect <strong>the</strong> participant from Sri Lanka regarded Article<br />
11 <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Child Abduction Convention as being a good and necessary provision as <strong>the</strong> judicial<br />
or administrative authorities <strong>of</strong> Contracting States have to reach a decision within 6 weeks from<br />
<strong>the</strong> date <strong>of</strong> commencement <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> proceedings, failing which <strong>the</strong> applicant or <strong>the</strong> CA <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
Requested State shall have <strong>the</strong> right to request a statement <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> reasons for <strong>the</strong> delay.<br />
Whe<strong>the</strong>r <strong>the</strong> growth <strong>of</strong> an international network <strong>of</strong> judges concerned with international child<br />
protection matters is to be encouraged. It was impressed upon <strong>the</strong> participants that cooperation<br />
amongst judicial authorities <strong>of</strong> Contracting States does not involve <strong>the</strong> actual decisionmaking<br />
process nor should it in any way infl uence <strong>the</strong> order that is to be given. As such, <strong>the</strong><br />
establishment <strong>of</strong> a network <strong>of</strong> contact or “liaison” judges in Contracting States (i.e. judges who<br />
act as liaison persons in facilitating direct judicial communications) is perhaps a practice that<br />
should be propagated especially since it has proved useful and effective in providing interim<br />
protection to children.
(iii)<br />
The Child Abduction Convention has not so far been adopted<br />
by any States whose laws are based on Syariah law. As such<br />
<strong>the</strong> HCPIL has been, and is continuing to work with a number<br />
<strong>of</strong> States from within <strong>the</strong> Islamic world to fi nd solutions to<br />
<strong>the</strong> cross-frontier problems <strong>of</strong> access and custody which<br />
are increasing in number. One notable effort is <strong>the</strong> Judicial<br />
Seminar organized by <strong>the</strong> HCPIL in Malta in March 2004<br />
whereby important conclusions with regard to <strong>the</strong> basic<br />
steps that need to be taken to improve cooperation between<br />
<strong>the</strong> States that attended <strong>the</strong> Judicial Seminar were achieved<br />
(refer to <strong>the</strong> power point presentation by Ms. Harnois).<br />
72<br />
(iv)<br />
The <strong>general</strong> norms that should apply to <strong>the</strong> protection <strong>of</strong><br />
children in cross-border situations are widely known and<br />
accepted internationally (for example, in <strong>the</strong> United Nations<br />
Convention on <strong>the</strong> Rights <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Child) and <strong>the</strong>se include <strong>the</strong><br />
principle <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> child’s best interests. Never<strong>the</strong>less efforts to<br />
build bridges between legal systems having diverse cultural<br />
or religious backgrounds, which may lead to differing<br />
concepts as to what amounts to a child’s best interest, have<br />
to be continued.<br />
(v)<br />
An option that may be open to States with Syariah-based<br />
laws which are considering accession to <strong>the</strong> Child Abduction<br />
Convention is by entering into bilateral agreements as<br />
exemplifi ed in <strong>the</strong> case <strong>of</strong> Australia (Australia has entered<br />
into a bilateral agreement with Egypt, a non-Convention<br />
country, to provide assistance to parents whose children<br />
have been abducted to, or from, Egypt, and is in <strong>the</strong> process<br />
<strong>of</strong> fi nalizing ano<strong>the</strong>r such agreement with Lebanon). The<br />
advantage <strong>of</strong> bilateral agreements <strong>of</strong> this nature is that it<br />
sets in place a procedure that is known to both parties and<br />
thus can be easily invoked.<br />
16. This session was followed by <strong>the</strong> sharing <strong>of</strong> experience<br />
session where <strong>the</strong> panelists from <strong>the</strong> Hong Kong SAR,<br />
Australia, Turkey and Malaysia raised <strong>the</strong> following issues,<br />
concerns and views:<br />
Hong Kong SAR<br />
17. The Child Abduction Convention was extended to Hong<br />
Kong SAR by <strong>the</strong> United Kingdom on 10 June 1997.<br />
This Convention came into force for Hong Kong SAR on<br />
1 September 1997. The Child Abduction and Custody<br />
Ordinance (Cap. 512) was enacted to give effect to this
Australia<br />
Convention. The CA <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Hong Kong SAR is<br />
<strong>the</strong> Secretary for Justice. The advantage <strong>of</strong> this<br />
designation is <strong>the</strong> ability to take action speedily<br />
and <strong>the</strong> fulfi llment <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> obligation refl ected in<br />
Article 10 <strong>of</strong> this Convention (i.e. for <strong>the</strong> CA to<br />
take all appropriate measures necessary to obtain<br />
<strong>the</strong> voluntary return <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> child)<br />
18. The Child Abduction Convention came into effect<br />
for Australia on 1 January 1987 and is currently<br />
in force between Australia and some 70 o<strong>the</strong>r<br />
countries. The fact that Australia has had a very<br />
positive experience operating this Convention in a<br />
Federation would be <strong>of</strong> interest to States having a<br />
federal system.<br />
19. This Convention is implemented in Australia<br />
by <strong>the</strong> Family Law Act 1975 and <strong>the</strong> Family<br />
Law (Child Abduction Convention) Regulations.<br />
The Commonwealth CA for Australia under this<br />
Convention is located in <strong>the</strong> <strong>Attorney</strong>-General’s<br />
Department. In addition <strong>the</strong>re is a CA in each<br />
State and Territory. Applications for <strong>the</strong> return<br />
<strong>of</strong> children brought to Australia are sent to <strong>the</strong><br />
relevant State CA for action. All legal proceedings<br />
under this Convention are conducted by <strong>the</strong> State<br />
CAs on behalf <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commonwealth CA. The State<br />
CA will fi le an application with <strong>the</strong> Family Court<br />
<strong>of</strong> Australia for <strong>the</strong> return <strong>of</strong> a child abducted to<br />
Australia.<br />
Turkey<br />
20. The Child Abduction Convention came into force<br />
on 1 August 2000 with respect to Turkey. The<br />
General Directorate <strong>of</strong> International Law and<br />
Foreign Relations <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Ministry <strong>of</strong> Justice<br />
have been appointed as <strong>the</strong> CA and this task is<br />
executed through <strong>the</strong> local Public Prosecution<br />
Offi ces. The Public Prosecution Offi ces act as<br />
both a requesting authority and a receiving <strong>of</strong>fi ce<br />
in <strong>the</strong> implementation <strong>of</strong> this Convention.<br />
21. Turkey has made a reservation as to paragraph<br />
3 <strong>of</strong> Article 26 to <strong>the</strong> effect that it shall not be<br />
Malaysia<br />
bound to assume any costs and expenses <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
proceedings, or where applicable, those arising<br />
from <strong>the</strong> participation <strong>of</strong> legal counsel or advisers,<br />
and those returning <strong>the</strong> child.<br />
22. Malaysia is not a signatory to <strong>the</strong> Conventions<br />
discussed. Domestic laws on parental<br />
responsibilities and protection <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> child are<br />
provided for in <strong>the</strong> Guardianship <strong>of</strong> Infants Act<br />
1961 (Act 351), <strong>the</strong> Law Reform (Marriage and<br />
Divorce) Act 1976 (Act 164) and <strong>the</strong> Child Act<br />
2001 (Act 611).<br />
23. In considering whe<strong>the</strong>r Malaysia should accede<br />
to <strong>the</strong> Child Abduction Convention, <strong>the</strong> provision<br />
<strong>of</strong> Article 17 has to be noted. This Article provides<br />
that <strong>the</strong> fact that <strong>the</strong>re is an existing Syariah Court<br />
order which may be contrary to <strong>the</strong> request for<br />
<strong>the</strong> return <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> child is not suffi cient ground for<br />
refusing to return <strong>the</strong> child but may only be taken<br />
into account when considering whe<strong>the</strong>r or not to<br />
order for <strong>the</strong> return <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> child. The case <strong>of</strong> In <strong>the</strong><br />
Marriage <strong>of</strong> Y and K Raja Bahrin (1986) 11 Fam<br />
LR 233 was mentioned to illustrate <strong>the</strong> complex<br />
legal issues involved in light <strong>of</strong> this Article.<br />
Discussion.<br />
From Left : Mdm Azailiza Mohd. Ahad (Head <strong>of</strong> International Affairs Division) and The<br />
Hon. Dato’ Haji Mohd Zawawi Salleh (Head <strong>of</strong> Advisory Division).<br />
73
Summing Up<br />
24. The Conventions discussed during <strong>the</strong> morning session <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
second day <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Seminar refl ect <strong>the</strong> important work <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> HCPIL<br />
in developing multilateral instruments for <strong>the</strong> protection <strong>of</strong> children.<br />
Although <strong>the</strong>se Conventions have, to some extent, brought clarity<br />
and certainty to <strong>the</strong> regulation <strong>of</strong> international child abduction and<br />
protection matters, <strong>the</strong> concerns from <strong>the</strong> Syariah perspective<br />
needs to be fur<strong>the</strong>r addressed.<br />
Tuesday, 23 August 2005 (Afternoon Session)<br />
25. The afternoon session <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> second day <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Seminar began<br />
with presentations by Dr. Christophe Bernasconi on <strong>the</strong> following<br />
Conventions:<br />
(i)<br />
Convention on Choice <strong>of</strong> Court Agreements (<strong>the</strong> Choice <strong>of</strong> Court<br />
Convention); and<br />
74<br />
The Convention on Choice <strong>of</strong> Court Agreements concludes more<br />
than a decade <strong>of</strong> negotiations that began in 1992 with a request<br />
from <strong>the</strong> United States <strong>of</strong> America for <strong>the</strong> negotiation <strong>of</strong> a convention<br />
on jurisdiction and <strong>the</strong> recognition and enforcement <strong>of</strong> foreign<br />
court judgments. The original effort resulted in a Preliminary Draft<br />
Convention prepared in October 1999, which was fur<strong>the</strong>r revised<br />
during a Diplomatic Conference in June 2001.<br />
More negotiation and redrafting took place, which resulted in <strong>the</strong><br />
conclusion <strong>of</strong> this Convention on Choice <strong>of</strong> Court Agreements on<br />
30 June 2005.<br />
This Convention governs international business-to-business<br />
agreements that designate a single court, or <strong>the</strong> courts <strong>of</strong> a single<br />
country, for resolution <strong>of</strong> disputes. This Convention is designed<br />
to promote international trade and investment through enhanced<br />
judicial cooperation.<br />
(ii)<br />
Convention on <strong>the</strong> Law Applicable to Certain Rights in Respect <strong>of</strong><br />
Securities Held with an Intermediary (<strong>the</strong> Securities Convention).<br />
The need for confl ict <strong>of</strong> laws rules that refl ect <strong>the</strong> reality <strong>of</strong> how<br />
securities are held, transferred and pledged today (i.e. by electronic<br />
book-entry through securities accounts) has become critical as a<br />
result <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> growth, speed and volume <strong>of</strong> cross-border securities<br />
transactions, which have been made possible by technological<br />
advancements. Thus <strong>the</strong> Hague Conference was invited to develop<br />
a Convention on <strong>the</strong> law applicable to interests in, and dispositions
<strong>of</strong>, securities held with an intermediary, on a fast track basis. The<br />
fi nal text <strong>of</strong> this Convention was released in February 2003 and it<br />
has yet to enter into force.<br />
The object <strong>of</strong> this Convention is to set out <strong>the</strong> rules for <strong>the</strong><br />
determination <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> law to be applied in a confl ict situation in<br />
relation to a disposition <strong>of</strong> an interest under <strong>the</strong> scope <strong>of</strong> this<br />
Convention.<br />
This Convention provides legal certainty and predictability as<br />
to <strong>the</strong> law applicable to securities that are now commonly held<br />
through clearing and settlement system or o<strong>the</strong>r intermediaries. It<br />
identifi es <strong>the</strong> appropriate law to govern <strong>the</strong> proprietary aspects <strong>of</strong> a<br />
disposition <strong>of</strong> indirectly held securities.<br />
26. Issues and matters related to <strong>the</strong> two Conventions that were<br />
discussed during <strong>the</strong> Q & A are as follows:<br />
(i)<br />
(ii)<br />
The issue <strong>of</strong> whe<strong>the</strong>r Article 19 (on declarations limiting jurisdiction)<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Choice <strong>of</strong> Court Convention dilutes <strong>the</strong> effect <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Convention<br />
as this Article, toge<strong>the</strong>r with Article 5 (on jurisdiction <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> chosen<br />
court), appear to allow forum shopping whereby parties may choose<br />
<strong>the</strong> courts <strong>of</strong> a Sate with which nei<strong>the</strong>r <strong>the</strong>y, nor <strong>the</strong> facts <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
case, have any connection (as opposed to, for example, Malaysian<br />
law which requires a nexus between dispute and <strong>the</strong> court). Dr.<br />
Bernasconi explained that this issue is addressed in <strong>the</strong> Explanatory<br />
Report which is yet to be made available to <strong>the</strong> public at <strong>the</strong> time <strong>of</strong><br />
this Seminar but basically <strong>the</strong> Choice <strong>of</strong> Court Convention applies<br />
to an international situation. The question <strong>the</strong>n is at which point <strong>of</strong><br />
time must this international character be fulfi lled. Some States may<br />
look at <strong>the</strong> time when <strong>the</strong> contract was entered into, while o<strong>the</strong>rs<br />
may consider <strong>the</strong> question at <strong>the</strong> time when <strong>the</strong> case is to be heard.<br />
Article 19 <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Choice <strong>of</strong> Court Convention is <strong>the</strong> only provision<br />
that permits a State to make a declaration that its courts will not<br />
apply Article 5 to cases that are wholly foreign.<br />
The primary purpose <strong>of</strong> paragraph (c) <strong>of</strong> Article 6 <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Choice <strong>of</strong><br />
Court Convention (on <strong>the</strong> obligations <strong>of</strong> a court not chosen) appears<br />
to be for certainty and effectiveness. However <strong>the</strong> reference to “public<br />
policy” in paragraph (c) creates some uncertainty or vagueness. Dr.<br />
Bernasconi agreed with this observation and explained that public<br />
policy was a crucial element that States wanted to be included<br />
in <strong>the</strong> text <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Convention. The HCPIL is waiting for feedbacks<br />
on this paragraph as well as Article 26 (on relationship with o<strong>the</strong>r<br />
international instruments).<br />
75
76<br />
(iii)<br />
(iv)<br />
(v)<br />
(vi)<br />
The issue <strong>of</strong> striking <strong>the</strong> balance between<br />
freedom <strong>of</strong> contract and certainty, and whe<strong>the</strong>r<br />
perhaps bigger and stronger nations may be<br />
taking advantage <strong>of</strong> smaller States by imposing<br />
that <strong>the</strong> courts in <strong>the</strong> former countries be <strong>the</strong><br />
chosen courts.<br />
It was pointed out that <strong>the</strong> real challenge lies in <strong>the</strong><br />
interpretation <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> provisions in any particular<br />
Convention ra<strong>the</strong>r than in <strong>the</strong> express terms <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> Convention. In this respect, <strong>the</strong> status <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
Explanatory Reports was raised. Dr. Bernasconi<br />
replied that it is <strong>the</strong> norm for all Conventions to<br />
be accompanied by Explanatory Reports and <strong>the</strong><br />
status <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>se Reports vary from jurisdiction<br />
to jurisdiction. Never<strong>the</strong>less many common law<br />
States do in fact take <strong>the</strong> Explanatory Reports into<br />
account in <strong>the</strong> implementation <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Conventions<br />
under <strong>the</strong> auspices <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> HCPIL.<br />
As regards <strong>the</strong> Securities Convention, a question<br />
was posed as to how this Convention promotes<br />
certainty when different legal systems have<br />
different ways <strong>of</strong> dealing with <strong>the</strong> various<br />
scenarios/issues, for example, in a securities<br />
transaction which involves elements <strong>of</strong> fraud<br />
and bona fi de purchasers for value. It was<br />
emphasized that <strong>the</strong> Securities Convention is a<br />
purely “confl ict <strong>of</strong> laws convention”; it acts as<br />
a ”traffi c sign” indicating <strong>the</strong> law which is to be<br />
applied in determining <strong>the</strong> issue at hand. Hence,<br />
in <strong>the</strong> example cited, if <strong>the</strong> law that is to be<br />
applied protects bona fi de purchasers for value,<br />
<strong>the</strong>n such protection will be accorded to such<br />
purchasers.<br />
Ano<strong>the</strong>r matter that was raised on <strong>the</strong> Securities<br />
Convention is on <strong>the</strong> insolvency <strong>of</strong> intermediaries<br />
in particular <strong>the</strong> provision <strong>of</strong> Article 8. Dr.<br />
Bernasconi explained that <strong>the</strong> policy <strong>of</strong> HCPIL<br />
is not to negotiate a treaty on insolvency and<br />
paragraph 1 <strong>of</strong> Article 8 merely provides for <strong>the</strong><br />
<strong>general</strong> principle that an interest perfected under<br />
<strong>the</strong> rule <strong>of</strong> Place <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Relevant Intermediary<br />
Approach (PRIMA) should be respected under<br />
<strong>the</strong> provisions <strong>of</strong> specifi c insolvency laws. This<br />
<strong>general</strong> principle is <strong>the</strong>n restricted by paragraph<br />
2 and <strong>the</strong> public policy provision in Article 10.<br />
Paragraph 2 <strong>of</strong> Article 8 ensures that insolvency<br />
laws <strong>of</strong> domestic jurisdictions are not affected<br />
by <strong>the</strong> Convention. The judge hearing <strong>the</strong> matter<br />
on <strong>the</strong> insolvency will have to determine whe<strong>the</strong>r<br />
<strong>the</strong>re is a security interest based on <strong>the</strong> terms<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Securities Convention and whe<strong>the</strong>r it is<br />
a perfected interest according to <strong>the</strong> domestic<br />
insolvency laws. On <strong>the</strong> allegedly “narrow”<br />
defi nition <strong>of</strong> “insolvency”, <strong>the</strong> conventions under<br />
<strong>the</strong> auspices <strong>of</strong> UNCITRAL were referred to and<br />
defi nitions <strong>the</strong>rein were subsequently adopted.<br />
27. This session was followed by a panel discussion<br />
where panelists from <strong>the</strong> <strong>Attorney</strong>-General’s<br />
<strong>Chambers</strong> <strong>of</strong> Malaysia (AGCM), <strong>the</strong> Central Bank<br />
<strong>of</strong> Malaysia and Bursa Malaysia explained and<br />
discussed <strong>the</strong> above Conventions from <strong>the</strong>ir<br />
perspective.<br />
Malaysia - The Choice <strong>of</strong> Court Convention<br />
28. The panelist from <strong>the</strong> Civil Division <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> AGCM in<br />
her presentation noted <strong>the</strong> following:<br />
(i)<br />
(ii)<br />
The Convention on Choice <strong>of</strong> Court Agreements<br />
establishes rules for enforcing private party<br />
agreements on matters relating to forum for<br />
resolution <strong>of</strong> disputes and provides rules for<br />
recognizing and enforcing <strong>the</strong> decisions issued<br />
by <strong>the</strong> chosen forum. Parties entering into<br />
international trade contracts would have a more<br />
balanced choice between selecting arbitration or<br />
litigation as <strong>the</strong> method for settling disputes. The<br />
Convention only applies to international cases<br />
concerning commerce or civil matters where<br />
<strong>the</strong>re is an exclusive choice <strong>of</strong> court clause in <strong>the</strong><br />
agreement between <strong>the</strong> contracting parties.<br />
The concept <strong>of</strong> establishing a global regime is not<br />
new. Courts around <strong>the</strong> world including Malaysia,<br />
regardless <strong>of</strong> systems, have for a long time now<br />
been recognizing and implementing <strong>the</strong> parties’<br />
choice <strong>of</strong> court clauses. Hence <strong>the</strong> preamble<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Convention which clearly acknowledges
(iii)<br />
(iv)<br />
“enhanced judicial co-operation” in order to<br />
promote international trade and investment. In<br />
Malaysia, Orders 39 and 66 <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Rules <strong>of</strong> High<br />
Court 1980 provide for <strong>the</strong> taking <strong>of</strong> evidence,<br />
whilst though limited, <strong>the</strong> Reciprocal Enforcement<br />
<strong>of</strong> Judgment Act 1958 also recognizes and allows<br />
for enforcement <strong>of</strong> judgment debts <strong>of</strong> signatory<br />
countries in Malaysia.<br />
There are 3 key obligations that <strong>the</strong> courts in<br />
<strong>the</strong> Contracting States need to observe in order<br />
to achieve <strong>the</strong> objectives <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Convention and<br />
<strong>the</strong>se are as follows:<br />
(a) The chosen court must be obliged to hear<br />
<strong>the</strong> disputes (Article 5);<br />
(b) All o<strong>the</strong>r courts must be obliged to decline<br />
jurisdiction (Article 7); and<br />
(c) The judgment given by <strong>the</strong> court must be<br />
recognized and enforced by courts <strong>of</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r<br />
Contracting States (Article 9).<br />
Malaysia practices constitutional democracy<br />
fashioned after <strong>the</strong> Westminster model. The<br />
written Federal Constitution <strong>of</strong> Malaysia is<br />
<strong>the</strong> supreme law <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> land and Part IX <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
Constitution contain provisions concerning <strong>the</strong><br />
judiciary i.e. judicial power, and <strong>the</strong> constitution<br />
<strong>of</strong> judges, <strong>the</strong> Federal Court, <strong>the</strong> Court <strong>of</strong> Appeal,<br />
<strong>the</strong> High Court <strong>of</strong> Malaya and <strong>the</strong> High Court <strong>of</strong><br />
Sabah and Sarawak. Specifi cally, Article 121 <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> Constitution provides that <strong>the</strong> High Court’s<br />
judicial power is that “as may be conferred by or<br />
under written law”.<br />
(vi)<br />
(vii)<br />
In <strong>the</strong> case <strong>of</strong> Globus Shipping & Trading Co. v<br />
Taiping Textiles Berhad [1976] 2 MLJ 154, <strong>the</strong><br />
Federal Court in its decision recognized <strong>the</strong><br />
existence <strong>of</strong> an exclusive foreign jurisdiction<br />
clauses in contracts. However, <strong>the</strong> Federal Court<br />
decided that <strong>the</strong> court has <strong>the</strong> discretion whe<strong>the</strong>r<br />
or not to adjudicate upon <strong>the</strong> claim in <strong>the</strong> action<br />
even where <strong>the</strong> parties have agreed to refer <strong>the</strong><br />
dispute to a foreign court. In o<strong>the</strong>r words, <strong>the</strong><br />
courts has <strong>the</strong> fi nal say even where <strong>the</strong>re is an<br />
exclusive choice <strong>of</strong> court clause.<br />
Although Article 5, 7 and 9 <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Choice <strong>of</strong> Court<br />
Convention provide for jurisdiction <strong>of</strong> courts<br />
chosen, obligations <strong>of</strong> courts not chosen and<br />
<strong>the</strong> position for refusal <strong>of</strong> recognition and <strong>the</strong><br />
enforcement <strong>of</strong> judgments, an examination <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong>se provisions show that <strong>the</strong> Convention still<br />
acknowledges and respect <strong>the</strong> judicial power <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> courts. Courts favoured or not favoured, as<br />
<strong>the</strong> case may be, retain <strong>the</strong> jurisdiction and <strong>the</strong><br />
power to determine whe<strong>the</strong>r or not to proceed<br />
with <strong>the</strong> case fi led.<br />
(viii) For instance, in Article 5(1), <strong>the</strong> court chosen<br />
implicitly can refuse jurisdiction where <strong>the</strong><br />
agreement is null and void under its laws. In this<br />
regard, and <strong>of</strong> particular relevance to Malaysia, is<br />
Article 5(3) which clearly states that <strong>the</strong> chosen<br />
court’s rules on jurisdiction on subject matter or<br />
value <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> claim, as well as rules on internal<br />
allocation <strong>of</strong> jurisdiction among courts in <strong>the</strong><br />
Contracting States, are not affected. This can be<br />
interpreted to mean that -<br />
(a)<br />
rules in Malaysia concerning <strong>the</strong><br />
fi nancial jurisdiction <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> courts remain<br />
unaffected; and<br />
77<br />
(v)<br />
The Malaysian courts, in dealing with cases<br />
concerning choice <strong>of</strong> court clauses in contracts,<br />
would refer to Section 23 <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Courts <strong>of</strong><br />
Judicature Act 1964 (Act 91) where it is stated<br />
that <strong>the</strong> High Court has jurisdiction to try civil<br />
proceedings which satisfi es any one <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> criteria<br />
set down in <strong>the</strong> section.<br />
(ix)<br />
(b)<br />
read in <strong>the</strong> context <strong>of</strong> section 23 <strong>of</strong> Act<br />
91, <strong>the</strong> chosen court may still refuse<br />
jurisdiction and <strong>the</strong> court not chosen<br />
may still insist on retaining jurisdiction.<br />
For <strong>the</strong> Convention to be operational in Malaysia,<br />
several laws need to be amended, new laws need<br />
to be enacted and constitutional issues (i.e. <strong>the</strong>
position <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> courts and <strong>the</strong>ir powers) need to be addressed. More<br />
importantly, <strong>the</strong> position <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> courts and <strong>the</strong>ir powers has to be<br />
clearly spelt out in order to avoid unnecessary wastage <strong>of</strong> time and<br />
expenses on protracted jurisdictional issues.<br />
Malaysia - The Securities Convention<br />
29. The second panelist from <strong>the</strong> Central Bank <strong>of</strong> Malaysia provided<br />
<strong>the</strong> Malaysian dimension from <strong>the</strong> fi nancial perspective on <strong>the</strong><br />
applicability <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Securities Convention whereby <strong>the</strong> following<br />
were noted:<br />
(i)<br />
The Securities Convention applies to cross-border transactions<br />
involving securities, which must be held by intermediaries.<br />
Intermediaries, in <strong>the</strong> Malaysian fi nancial system, would include -<br />
(a)<br />
Real Time Electronic Transfer <strong>of</strong> Funds and Securities<br />
(RENTAS)<br />
78<br />
RENTAS is a real time gross settlement system for <strong>the</strong> transfer<br />
and settlement <strong>of</strong> high value ringgit denominated interbank<br />
funds and scriptless securities issued by <strong>the</strong> Central Bank <strong>of</strong><br />
Malaysia, <strong>the</strong> Government <strong>of</strong> Malaysia and some corporations<br />
(mainly limited to unlisted bonds). RENTAS system enables<br />
payment instructions between <strong>the</strong> participants <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> system to<br />
be processed and settled individually and continuously. Members<br />
<strong>of</strong> RENTAS maintain two accounts, namely one account for<br />
members <strong>of</strong> RENTAS, and <strong>the</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r for customers or investors.<br />
(b)<br />
Securitisation<br />
This is <strong>the</strong> situation where <strong>the</strong> originating company transfers <strong>the</strong><br />
right to payment from income producing assets such as loans<br />
and lease rentals. This is carried out through security producing<br />
vehicles that issue securities to various investors. Proceeds from<br />
<strong>the</strong> investments are used to pay <strong>the</strong> originator.
(ii)<br />
(iii)<br />
(iv)<br />
(c)<br />
Loan Participation<br />
This is where <strong>the</strong> original lender diversifi es<br />
credit risks by selling part <strong>of</strong> its loan to one or<br />
more participants. The original lender holds<br />
<strong>the</strong> loan with no assignment or novation. The<br />
original lender is <strong>the</strong> intermediary.<br />
The Convention would be <strong>of</strong> benefi t to Malaysia<br />
in <strong>the</strong> following ways:<br />
(a)<br />
(b)<br />
(c)<br />
Lower cost <strong>of</strong> funds to Malaysian<br />
borrowers as Articles 4 and 5 provide<br />
clear rules to reduce legal uncertainties<br />
and thus reduce legal risks.<br />
Ability to obtain cheaper funds and<br />
thus provides a more effi cient fi nancial<br />
market.<br />
Access to foreign funding would be<br />
improved, as foreign fund managers<br />
will be assured that Malaysian courts<br />
will recognize <strong>the</strong> PRIMA rules. Huge<br />
sums <strong>of</strong> money may be borrowed with<br />
<strong>the</strong> relaxation <strong>of</strong> foreign exchange<br />
administration rules.<br />
Although <strong>the</strong> Convention is a step in <strong>the</strong> right<br />
direction, Malaysia has to address <strong>the</strong> issue <strong>of</strong><br />
substantive laws. Malaysian laws are unlikely to<br />
be nominated in accounts agreement until <strong>the</strong><br />
substantive laws are harmonised. Contracting<br />
parties would choose to apply <strong>the</strong> laws <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
United States <strong>of</strong> America or United Kingdom as<br />
<strong>the</strong>y are familiar with <strong>the</strong> laws <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>se countries.<br />
Presently, work on <strong>the</strong> unifi cation <strong>of</strong> substantive<br />
laws is being carried out under <strong>the</strong> auspices <strong>of</strong><br />
UNCITRAL and UNIDROIT.<br />
Therefore, if Malaysia decides to accede to <strong>the</strong><br />
Convention, <strong>the</strong> relevant laws would need to be<br />
enacted as at present, <strong>the</strong>re is no statute to cater<br />
for securities held by intermediaries, or for <strong>the</strong><br />
enforcement <strong>of</strong> such securities.<br />
30. The panelist from Bursa Malaysia, a holding<br />
company for <strong>the</strong> Kuala Lumpur Stock Exchange<br />
chose to focus on <strong>the</strong> holding pattern in respect <strong>of</strong><br />
securities transactions. The following comments<br />
were made during her presentation:<br />
(i)<br />
(ii)<br />
Q & A<br />
With effect from 1 November 1998, <strong>the</strong> amended<br />
Securities Commission Act makes it mandatory<br />
for all securities to be deposited with <strong>the</strong> Central<br />
Depository System (CDS) operated by Bursa<br />
Malaysia. The securities holding structure may<br />
be -<br />
(a)<br />
(b)<br />
direct through accounts held in an<br />
individual’s name; or<br />
indirect through <strong>the</strong> appointment <strong>of</strong><br />
authorized nominees and deposited in that<br />
appointed nominee’s account.<br />
On <strong>the</strong> impact <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Convention to Malaysia,<br />
at present, <strong>the</strong> law which applies to <strong>the</strong> CDS is<br />
<strong>the</strong> Malaysian law. Under <strong>the</strong> Convention, <strong>the</strong><br />
main issue that arises is whe<strong>the</strong>r <strong>the</strong> CDS is <strong>the</strong><br />
relevant intermediary as defi ned by Article 2 <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> Convention. The applicable law would be<br />
Malaysian law if <strong>the</strong> answer is positive, o<strong>the</strong>rwise<br />
<strong>the</strong> applicable law would be that <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> jurisdiction<br />
dealt with. Dr. Bernasconi was <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> view that<br />
this issue requires certain points for clarifi cation<br />
but basically, <strong>the</strong> CDS is a relevant intermediary<br />
for purposes <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Convention<br />
31. The issues that were raised during <strong>the</strong> question<br />
and answer session with <strong>the</strong> panelists are as<br />
follows:<br />
(i)<br />
On <strong>the</strong> question <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> impact <strong>of</strong> both <strong>the</strong><br />
Conventions on <strong>the</strong> private sector, <strong>the</strong> panelist<br />
from <strong>the</strong> Central Bank reiterated that <strong>the</strong><br />
Securities Convention would bring a lot <strong>of</strong> benefi t<br />
to Malaysia. Foreign corporations would be<br />
encouraged to set up <strong>the</strong>ir companies in Malaysia.<br />
But if Malaysia does not accede to <strong>the</strong> Securities<br />
79
(iv)<br />
Concerning <strong>the</strong> issue where <strong>the</strong>re is a range <strong>of</strong><br />
intermediaries and some <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> intermediaries<br />
are non-Contracting States to <strong>the</strong> Securities<br />
Convention, it was replied that <strong>the</strong> Convention<br />
applies independently at each level in <strong>the</strong> chain <strong>of</strong><br />
intermediaries. Thus separate laws govern each<br />
separate level.<br />
80<br />
Welcome Dinner on 21 August<br />
2005 in honour <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Delegates<br />
to <strong>the</strong> Seminar hosted by <strong>the</strong><br />
Minister <strong>of</strong> Women, Family and<br />
Community Development.<br />
(ii)<br />
Convention, investments in Malaysia would<br />
be affected. Moreover, since our laws are not<br />
familiar to foreigners, it is unlikely that Malaysian<br />
laws would be nominated in accounts agreement<br />
until <strong>the</strong> substantive laws are harmonized.<br />
On <strong>the</strong> issue <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> relevance <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Hague<br />
Conference Conventions on this matter as <strong>the</strong>re<br />
is work being carried out on <strong>the</strong> unifi cation <strong>of</strong><br />
substantive laws under UNIDROIT and UNCITRAL,<br />
Dr. Bernasconi confi rmed that not all issues would<br />
be resolved by UNIDROIT and UNCITRAL. Moreover,<br />
UNIDROIT specifi cally excludes securities held<br />
with an intermediary. There are no clear-cut rules<br />
as to how to achieve uniformity <strong>of</strong> laws in this<br />
respect and in fact Belgium, Luxemburg and <strong>the</strong><br />
United States <strong>of</strong> America have exemplary laws<br />
governing this area.<br />
Summing up<br />
32. The Moderator summarized that <strong>the</strong> Choice <strong>of</strong><br />
Court and <strong>the</strong> Securities Conventions provide<br />
legal certainty and uniformity, and reduce legal<br />
risks to parties in international transactions and<br />
securities transactions. Without <strong>the</strong> Conventions,<br />
<strong>the</strong> applicable law must be decided upon before a<br />
dispute is determined. In order to comply with <strong>the</strong><br />
obligations under <strong>the</strong> Choice <strong>of</strong> Court Convention,<br />
Malaysia would have to study its domestic laws<br />
to facilitate <strong>the</strong> necessary amendments and new<br />
laws may have to be enacted. With regards to <strong>the</strong><br />
Securities Convention, <strong>the</strong> benefi ts would include<br />
lower cost <strong>of</strong> funds to Malaysian borrowers, more<br />
effi cient fi nancial markets and easier access to<br />
foreign funds. However, substantive laws have to<br />
be harmonised, and <strong>the</strong> issue <strong>of</strong> whe<strong>the</strong>r <strong>the</strong> CDS<br />
is a relevant intermediary under <strong>the</strong> Convention<br />
would have to be addressed as this would impact<br />
on <strong>the</strong> issue <strong>of</strong> jurisdiction.<br />
(iii)<br />
Concerning <strong>the</strong> issue <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> applicability <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
Convention on <strong>the</strong> Choice <strong>of</strong> Court Agreements<br />
when <strong>the</strong>re is specifi c legislation requiring all<br />
Islamic transactions to have a choice <strong>of</strong> court<br />
clause, Dr. Bernasconi clarifi ed that <strong>the</strong> Convention<br />
would not be applicable in such a case and it<br />
would be up to <strong>the</strong> particular State to govern this<br />
matter. The Convention does not impose when a<br />
Contracting State has laws or regulations in place<br />
in respect <strong>of</strong> securities.<br />
Dinner with Cultural Show on<br />
22 August 2005 hosted by <strong>the</strong><br />
Deputy Chief Minister <strong>of</strong> Sabah<br />
and Minister <strong>of</strong> Tourism, Culture<br />
and Environment.
Wednesday, 24 August 2005<br />
33. The third and fi nal day <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Seminar was taken<br />
up with <strong>the</strong> following presentations:<br />
(i)<br />
(ii)<br />
(iii)<br />
The drafting <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Draft Convention on International<br />
Recovery <strong>of</strong> Child Support and O<strong>the</strong>r Forms <strong>of</strong><br />
Family Maintenance (<strong>the</strong> Draft Convention) by Ms.<br />
Caroline Harnois;<br />
A joint presentation on <strong>the</strong> Draft Convention from<br />
<strong>the</strong> Malaysian Syariah Law perspective by Dr.<br />
Zaleha Kamaruddin, Dean <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Centre for Post-<br />
Graduate Studies, International Islamic University<br />
Malaysia and Mr. Haji Naim Mokhtar, Offi cer <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> Jabatan Kehakiman Syariah Malaysia (on<br />
sabbatical for Ph.D at <strong>the</strong> National University <strong>of</strong><br />
Malaysia); and<br />
The Draft Convention from <strong>the</strong> Malaysian Civil<br />
Law perspective by Ms. Foo Yet Ngo, Advocate<br />
and Solicitor, Malaysia Bar Council.<br />
The Convention on <strong>the</strong> International Recovery<br />
<strong>of</strong> Child Support and O<strong>the</strong>r Forms <strong>of</strong> Family<br />
Maintenance is an instrument which is still in <strong>the</strong><br />
drafting stage and is targeted to be concluded by<br />
<strong>the</strong> end <strong>of</strong> 2006.<br />
81<br />
The decision to prepare a new instrument dealing<br />
with <strong>the</strong> recovery <strong>of</strong> child support and o<strong>the</strong>r<br />
forms <strong>of</strong> family maintenance was taken after a<br />
variety <strong>of</strong> problems were identifi ed by a special<br />
commission during <strong>the</strong> review <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> practical<br />
operation <strong>of</strong> four existing Hague Conventions ( i.e.<br />
<strong>the</strong> Convention <strong>of</strong> 24 October 1956 on <strong>the</strong> Law<br />
Applicable to Maintenance Obligations towards<br />
Children; <strong>the</strong> Convention <strong>of</strong> 15 April 1958<br />
concerning <strong>the</strong> Recognition and Enforcement <strong>of</strong><br />
Decisions relating to Maintenance Obligations<br />
towards Children; <strong>the</strong> Convention <strong>of</strong> 2 October<br />
1973 on <strong>the</strong> Recognition and Enforcement <strong>of</strong><br />
Decisions relating to Maintenance Obligations;<br />
and <strong>the</strong> Convention <strong>of</strong> 2 October 1973 on <strong>the</strong><br />
Law Applicable to Maintenance Obligations).<br />
Joint presentation by Dr. Zaleha Kamaruddin and Mr. Haji Naim Mokhtar on<br />
<strong>the</strong> Draft Convention from <strong>the</strong> Syariah Law perspective.<br />
Fur<strong>the</strong>rmore, some Contracting States to <strong>the</strong><br />
abovementioned Hague Conventions are also<br />
parties to <strong>the</strong> New York Convention <strong>of</strong> 1956<br />
on <strong>the</strong> Recovery Abroad <strong>of</strong> Maintenance. This<br />
resulted in different levels <strong>of</strong> obligations and<br />
differences in interpretation and practices for <strong>the</strong><br />
implementation <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> said Conventions.<br />
This Convention is intended to address <strong>the</strong><br />
issues <strong>of</strong> administrative cooperation for <strong>the</strong><br />
recovery <strong>of</strong> maintenance in order to locate <strong>the</strong><br />
maintenance debtor and to transmit <strong>the</strong> funds
to <strong>the</strong> maintenance creditor; confl ict <strong>of</strong> law; and<br />
enforcement <strong>of</strong> foreign judgments in respect <strong>of</strong><br />
maintenance decisions in Contracting States. It<br />
pays special attention to <strong>the</strong> issue <strong>of</strong> maintenance<br />
<strong>of</strong> children as it is accepted that children require<br />
a higher level <strong>of</strong> security in terms <strong>of</strong> obtaining<br />
maintenance so that <strong>the</strong>y will be able to live in<br />
an environment conducive for children. Hence<br />
<strong>the</strong> preamble <strong>of</strong> this Convention also refers to<br />
<strong>the</strong> Convention also applies to women and o<strong>the</strong>r<br />
dependents, such as adults who are not able to<br />
take care <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>mselves.<br />
family. Hence <strong>the</strong> biological fa<strong>the</strong>r is not obliged<br />
to maintain an illegitimate child. However, based<br />
on fi qh, <strong>the</strong> mo<strong>the</strong>r can apply for a Syariah Court<br />
order that <strong>the</strong> biological fa<strong>the</strong>r pays for <strong>the</strong><br />
upbringing (as opposed to maintenance) <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
child, or alternatively, fi le an application at <strong>the</strong> civil<br />
courts for contribution from <strong>the</strong> biological fa<strong>the</strong>r<br />
(<strong>the</strong> relevant statute in Malaysia is <strong>the</strong> Married<br />
Women and Children Maintenance Act 1950).<br />
Indeed it was impressed upon <strong>the</strong> participants that<br />
in Islam, <strong>the</strong> biological fa<strong>the</strong>r cannot hide behind<br />
<strong>the</strong> religion to avoid paying for his “misdeeds”.<br />
82<br />
34. The Q & A that followed <strong>the</strong> presentations raised<br />
several interesting and pertinent issues on <strong>the</strong><br />
Draft Convention and related Syariah Law issues<br />
such as <strong>the</strong> following:<br />
(i)<br />
(ii)<br />
In considering <strong>the</strong> acceptability <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Draft<br />
Convention from <strong>the</strong> Syariah perspective, <strong>the</strong><br />
legal maxim Al-aslu fi l-ashyaa’ al-Ibadah (<strong>the</strong><br />
norm is to regard to things is that <strong>of</strong> permissibility<br />
or all things are permissible unless specifi cally<br />
declared forbidden) and <strong>the</strong> doctrine <strong>of</strong> maslahah<br />
(which literally means <strong>the</strong> seeking <strong>of</strong> benefi t and<br />
<strong>the</strong> repelling <strong>of</strong> harm) could perhaps be applied.<br />
It was suggested that taking into account <strong>the</strong><br />
scope <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Draft Convention, in particular<br />
as provided under paragraph 1 <strong>of</strong> Article 2<br />
(maintenance obligation in respect <strong>of</strong> a child<br />
regardless <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> marital status <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> parents is<br />
proposed to be included within <strong>the</strong> scope), <strong>the</strong><br />
Draft Convention is in fact attempting to provide<br />
for all situations including <strong>the</strong> care <strong>of</strong> illegitimate<br />
children which is a real social problem that a<br />
State has to address. The reply to this involves an<br />
understanding <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> distinction between Syariah<br />
(<strong>the</strong> rules and principles enunciated in <strong>the</strong> Holy<br />
Qur’an, Sunnah or <strong>the</strong> sayings and actions <strong>of</strong><br />
Prophet Muhammad, and ijma’ or consensus<br />
as <strong>the</strong> primary sources) and fi qh (<strong>the</strong> exercise<br />
<strong>of</strong> human intellect based on <strong>the</strong> text <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Holy<br />
Qur’an and Sunnah). One <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> purposes <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
Maqasid al-Shari’ah or Islamic law that pertains<br />
to this world is <strong>the</strong> preservation <strong>of</strong> progeny/<strong>the</strong><br />
(iii)<br />
(iv)<br />
From <strong>the</strong> Syariah perspective, <strong>the</strong> wordings in<br />
paragraph 1 <strong>of</strong> Article 2 is acceptable except for<br />
<strong>the</strong> phrase in paren<strong>the</strong>sis which is too wide and<br />
may cover maintenance obligations in respect<br />
<strong>of</strong> illegitimate children, adopted children <strong>of</strong><br />
heterosexual parents who are not married to each<br />
o<strong>the</strong>r or homosexual parents, children born out <strong>of</strong><br />
rape or by way <strong>of</strong> donor parents/surrogate mo<strong>the</strong>rs<br />
etc. O<strong>the</strong>r Articles <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Draft Convention that<br />
have been identifi ed as being contrary to Syariah<br />
are <strong>the</strong> paren<strong>the</strong>sis in paragraph 1 <strong>of</strong> Article 1<br />
(establishment <strong>of</strong> parentage), Article 3 (defi nition<br />
<strong>of</strong> a “child”) and Article 15 (bases for recognition<br />
and enforcement). It is hoped that <strong>the</strong> identifi cation<br />
<strong>of</strong> areas which contradicts <strong>the</strong> Syariah and its<br />
practices in Malaysia will pave <strong>the</strong> way for fur<strong>the</strong>r<br />
research and studies to be carried out before <strong>the</strong><br />
Draft Convention is fi nalised and put into force<br />
for better implementation <strong>of</strong> maintenance order<br />
through international cooperation.<br />
One <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> objects <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Draft Convention as<br />
stated in Article 1 is to provide for <strong>the</strong> recognition<br />
and enforcement <strong>of</strong> maintenance decisions.<br />
The direct and o<strong>the</strong>r functions <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> CA as set<br />
out in Articles 5 and 6 include <strong>the</strong> facilitation<br />
<strong>of</strong> enforcement <strong>of</strong> maintenance decisions.<br />
Recognition or enforcement <strong>of</strong> a decision may be<br />
refused only under one <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> grounds mentioned<br />
in Article 17. Therefore an issue arises as to<br />
whe<strong>the</strong>r Islamic States or States practicing dual<br />
legal systems which include Syariah law may<br />
refuse to recognize or enforce a decision on
<strong>the</strong> ground that <strong>the</strong> decision is incompatible<br />
or repugnant to Syariah law. It was noted that<br />
paragraph (a) <strong>of</strong> Article 17 provides for refusal<br />
on <strong>the</strong> ground <strong>of</strong> manifest incompatibility with <strong>the</strong><br />
public policy <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> State addressed as opposed<br />
to <strong>the</strong> laws <strong>of</strong> such State.<br />
35. The Q & A was followed by a panel discussion<br />
whereby panelists from <strong>the</strong> Asian-African Legal<br />
Consultative Organisation (AALCO), Malaysia<br />
and <strong>the</strong> HCPIL discussed <strong>the</strong> following issues,<br />
concerns and views:<br />
The Asian-African Legal Consultative Organisation<br />
36. The panelist, Ambassador Dr. Ali Reza<br />
Deihim, Deputy Secretary-General <strong>of</strong> AALCO,<br />
acknowledged that <strong>the</strong> Draft Convention contains<br />
noble goals which are compatible with <strong>the</strong><br />
primary sources <strong>of</strong> Islamic law, namely <strong>the</strong> Holy<br />
Qur’an and Sunnah. The panellist proceeded to<br />
quote several verses from <strong>the</strong> Holy Qur’an which<br />
explain <strong>the</strong> relationship between husband, wife,<br />
children and parents. Fur<strong>the</strong>rmore, according<br />
to <strong>the</strong> Islamic doctrine, human being is God’s<br />
vicegerent. This is considered to be <strong>the</strong> existing<br />
relation between God and human beings. Islam’s<br />
perspective towards man is a fundamental<br />
principle <strong>of</strong> Islam itself. From it all his duties<br />
and rights derive. God has chosen man as<br />
His vicegerent on earth so that humans may<br />
become responsible agents and slaves <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
Most Gracious. Therefore <strong>the</strong>re is an obligation<br />
on man to care for children, even <strong>the</strong> illegitimate<br />
ones, because as God’s shepherd on earth, man<br />
is entrusted with certain responsibilities.<br />
37. The panelist continued to explain that <strong>the</strong><br />
Sunnis are divided into four great schools <strong>of</strong><br />
jurisprudence which grew up in <strong>the</strong> 2 nd and 3 rd<br />
centuries <strong>of</strong> Islam. All four schools are mutually<br />
recognized and respected, and <strong>the</strong>y are not to be<br />
distinguished as different “sects” <strong>of</strong> Sunni Islam<br />
but merely as distinct schools or “ways”. A close<br />
examination <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> fi qh <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> four schools will<br />
reveal that <strong>the</strong>re is no difference <strong>of</strong> opinion as<br />
far as <strong>the</strong> basic principles <strong>of</strong> Islam are concerned<br />
but <strong>the</strong> differences mainly center round <strong>the</strong><br />
tiny branches <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ology ra<strong>the</strong>r than <strong>the</strong><br />
fundamental principles <strong>of</strong> belief. Each <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>se<br />
schools had interpreted and elaborated on many<br />
points regarding <strong>the</strong> religion and its practices<br />
but such interpretation and elaboration should<br />
not be regarded as sacred and uncontroversial.<br />
38. The Imam Malik had approved <strong>the</strong> plea <strong>of</strong> public<br />
interest as one <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> sources <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Syariah<br />
and he named this new source as al-masalih<br />
83
84<br />
al-mursalah. The meaning <strong>of</strong> interpretation by<br />
means <strong>of</strong> this method is to relate a particular rule<br />
to <strong>the</strong> appropriate meaning which is consonant<br />
with <strong>the</strong> <strong>general</strong> practices <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Syariah. In<br />
o<strong>the</strong>r words, to consider <strong>the</strong> reasonable meaning<br />
which conforms to <strong>the</strong> public interest and to <strong>the</strong><br />
intent <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Syariah and <strong>the</strong>n to formulate a rule<br />
that such meaning requires. A large number <strong>of</strong><br />
modern Muslim scholars <strong>of</strong> Islamic law view<br />
Maslaha as a principle <strong>of</strong> interpretation <strong>of</strong> law,<br />
and as such a principle <strong>of</strong> change, dynamism<br />
and adaptability which can assist <strong>the</strong> ummah in<br />
grappling with <strong>the</strong> changing conditions.<br />
39. The panelist ended his presentation with a<br />
reminder that <strong>the</strong> sources <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Syariah fall into<br />
two main categories i.e. <strong>the</strong> primary sources<br />
which comprise <strong>the</strong> Holy Qur’an and Sunnah,<br />
and <strong>the</strong> secondary or dependent sources<br />
which are not sources stricto sensu but are<br />
ra<strong>the</strong>r means for discovering <strong>the</strong> law i.e. ijma<br />
(consensus) and ijtihad (reasoning). While <strong>the</strong><br />
primary sources provide <strong>the</strong> authoritative texts<br />
to answer all questions, <strong>the</strong> secondary sources,<br />
through processes <strong>of</strong> interpretation and reason,<br />
provide for <strong>the</strong> development <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Syariah to<br />
meet <strong>the</strong> needs <strong>of</strong> changing times.<br />
Malaysia<br />
40. The panelists from Malaysia, Dr. Zaleha<br />
Kamaruddin noted that child support as practiced<br />
in some countries, such as in Australia, is a foreign<br />
concept in Malaysia. Enforcement <strong>of</strong> international<br />
cooperation in relation to various forms <strong>of</strong> child<br />
maintenance (for example, providing <strong>the</strong> needs<br />
<strong>of</strong> children before <strong>the</strong>y are born and at times<br />
when <strong>the</strong>y are considered as adults) can only be<br />
implemented if Malaysia is ready and willing to<br />
reform <strong>the</strong> system for maintenance. In addition,<br />
an in depth study would have to be undertaken<br />
before Malaysia decides to introduce a Child<br />
Support Scheme especially considering <strong>the</strong><br />
high operating costs that is normally involved.<br />
The panelist also raised <strong>the</strong> earlier objections<br />
from <strong>the</strong> Syariah perspective mentioned during<br />
her presentation as regards <strong>the</strong> paren<strong>the</strong>sis in<br />
paragraphs 1 <strong>of</strong> Articles 1 and 2.<br />
41. The second panelist from Malaysia, Mr. Haji<br />
Naim Mokhtar, raised <strong>the</strong> issue <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> defi nition<br />
<strong>of</strong> a “child”. Article 3 <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Draft Convention<br />
provides that a “child” includes as a minimum<br />
every person below <strong>the</strong> age <strong>of</strong> 18 whereas<br />
according to Syariah, <strong>the</strong> term is used to refer<br />
to someone who has not yet reach <strong>the</strong> age <strong>of</strong><br />
puberty or baligh (defi ned as a child before<br />
having experienced wet dream which is normally<br />
after discernment age). Syariah does not impose<br />
any age limitation as a requirement for <strong>the</strong> end <strong>of</strong><br />
maintenance. Maintenance for children ceases<br />
once <strong>the</strong>y are capable <strong>of</strong> maintaining <strong>the</strong>mselves<br />
with <strong>the</strong>ir own income acquired by <strong>the</strong>mselves.<br />
Hence in Islam, <strong>the</strong> determination <strong>of</strong> a “child”<br />
is based on <strong>the</strong> principle <strong>of</strong> necessity/ needs <strong>of</strong><br />
a child ra<strong>the</strong>r than on a rigid demarcation at a<br />
certain age. In fact <strong>the</strong> Federal Court Judge in<br />
Karunairajah Rasiah v Puni Thambigai Puniah<br />
[2004] 2 CLJ 365 has proposed that section<br />
95 <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Law Reform (Marriage and Divorce)<br />
Act 1976 be reformed to incorporate <strong>the</strong> Islamic<br />
principles <strong>of</strong> extension order for <strong>the</strong> maintenance<br />
<strong>of</strong> children because <strong>the</strong> civil law does not extend<br />
maintenance order for a child beyond 18 years<br />
old.<br />
42. The panelist fur<strong>the</strong>r pointed out that Article<br />
15 <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Draft Convention basically involves a<br />
question <strong>of</strong> jurisdiction, which in turn involves a<br />
question <strong>of</strong> fi qh. Under <strong>the</strong> Draft Convention, <strong>the</strong><br />
recognition and enforcement <strong>of</strong> maintenance<br />
decision is based on, inter alia, <strong>the</strong> habitual<br />
residence <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> creditor, respondent or <strong>the</strong><br />
child for whom <strong>the</strong> maintenance was ordered.<br />
Meanwhile <strong>the</strong> jurisdiction <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Syariah courts<br />
relating to Islamic family laws in Malaysia is<br />
stipulated under section 45 <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Islamic Family<br />
Law Act where 3 requirements are set out i.e.<br />
where <strong>the</strong> marriage had been registered or<br />
deemed to be registered under <strong>the</strong> Act, where<br />
<strong>the</strong> marriage was contracted in accordance with<br />
Hukum Syara’ and where <strong>the</strong> residence <strong>of</strong> ei<strong>the</strong>r
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> parties to <strong>the</strong> marriage at <strong>the</strong> time when<br />
<strong>the</strong> application is presented is in <strong>the</strong> relevant<br />
State.<br />
43. The third panelist from Malaysia, Dr. Haji Hassan<br />
Abdul Rahman framed <strong>the</strong> main concern in <strong>the</strong><br />
following manner: That should Malaysia decide<br />
to apply <strong>the</strong> provisions <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> draft Convention<br />
without <strong>the</strong> legal and institutional infrastructure<br />
being put in place to meet <strong>the</strong> demands <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
obligations under <strong>the</strong> Draft Convention, Malaysia<br />
would be placed in an inept position. Malaysia<br />
has barely two years to undertake <strong>the</strong> tasks to<br />
improve <strong>the</strong> current state <strong>of</strong> affairs as <strong>the</strong> target<br />
date has been set as 2007. The panelist is <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
opinion that <strong>the</strong> present structure <strong>of</strong> organization<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Malaysian Government has to be studied<br />
and a body that would be designated as <strong>the</strong> CA<br />
has to be identifi ed. Fur<strong>the</strong>rmore, in his view, it is<br />
convenient and practical to designate <strong>the</strong> AGCM<br />
as <strong>the</strong> CA due to <strong>the</strong> following reasons:<br />
(i)<br />
(ii)<br />
(iii)<br />
As a department under <strong>the</strong> auspices <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Prime<br />
Minister’s Department, <strong>the</strong> AGCM has direct<br />
linkages to various government departments<br />
and agencies whereby <strong>the</strong>re is at least one legal<br />
<strong>of</strong>fi cer attached in almost all <strong>the</strong> ministries and<br />
departments.<br />
The AGCM is able to provide legal advice<br />
concerning <strong>the</strong> formulation <strong>of</strong> policies as regards<br />
family law whenever circumstances require due<br />
to <strong>the</strong> presence <strong>of</strong> one <strong>of</strong> its <strong>of</strong>fi cers in <strong>the</strong> Ministry<br />
<strong>of</strong> Women, Family and Community Development.<br />
In future a task force or a steering committee<br />
may be formed under <strong>the</strong> Law Reform and Law<br />
Revision Division <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> AGCM to reform existing<br />
laws relating to family, and child and spousal<br />
support.<br />
The AGCM has <strong>the</strong> expertise and <strong>the</strong> requisite<br />
personnel to receive and transmit applications<br />
under <strong>the</strong> Draft Convention as currently <strong>the</strong><br />
AGCM is receiving and transmitting applications<br />
for Letters <strong>of</strong> Request for <strong>the</strong> taking <strong>of</strong> evidence<br />
and service <strong>of</strong> documents.<br />
(iv)<br />
The AGCM is able to provide information to<br />
<strong>the</strong> Permanent Bureau <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> HCPIL as to <strong>the</strong><br />
laws and procedures concerning maintenance<br />
obligations in relation to both civil and Syariah<br />
family matters. The Syariah Section under <strong>the</strong><br />
Advisory Division <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> AGCM can provide<br />
linkages to <strong>the</strong> relevant Islamic administrative<br />
bodies.<br />
44. Never<strong>the</strong>less, <strong>the</strong> panelist emphasised that in<br />
discharging its functions as <strong>the</strong> CA, <strong>the</strong> AGCM<br />
cannot work in isolation and that <strong>the</strong> co-operation<br />
<strong>of</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r departments and agencies, for example,<br />
<strong>the</strong> Legal Aid Bureau and <strong>the</strong> Ministry <strong>of</strong> Women,<br />
Family and Community Development, would be<br />
needed. Ano<strong>the</strong>r important step that has to be<br />
undertaken is a study <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> current legislative<br />
framework for purposes <strong>of</strong> identifying areas <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> law that need reform and deciding whe<strong>the</strong>r<br />
new legislation is required (perhaps on child and<br />
spousal support scheme and <strong>the</strong> enforcement<br />
<strong>of</strong> maintenance orders) in order to support <strong>the</strong><br />
objectives <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> draft Convention.<br />
HCPIL<br />
45. The panelist from HCPIL, Ms. Caroline Harnois<br />
informed that <strong>the</strong> title <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> draft Convention is<br />
still subject to change although <strong>the</strong> underlying<br />
intention is to keep <strong>the</strong> title as broad as<br />
possible. The panelist <strong>the</strong>n attempted to address<br />
some <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> concerns raised from <strong>the</strong> Syariah<br />
perspective.<br />
46. As regards Article 2, <strong>the</strong> panelist explained<br />
that it is a provision on <strong>the</strong> scope <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> draft<br />
Convention and not one providing for uniformity<br />
<strong>of</strong> law. Similarly Article 3 <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> draft Convention<br />
provides that for purposes <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Convention, <strong>the</strong><br />
defi nition <strong>of</strong> “child” includes as a minimum every<br />
person below <strong>the</strong> age <strong>of</strong> 18. Therefore States<br />
are not obliged to adopt substantive laws as<br />
regards <strong>the</strong> scope <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> draft Convention. For<br />
example, Malaysia need not have laws providing<br />
for <strong>the</strong> maintenance <strong>of</strong> illegitimate children, but<br />
Malaysia will have to recognize <strong>the</strong> rights <strong>of</strong> a<br />
85
86<br />
foreign child that is born outside wedlock to obtain<br />
maintenance. Ultimately this is a question <strong>of</strong> public<br />
policy as to whe<strong>the</strong>r <strong>the</strong> giving <strong>of</strong> such recognition<br />
is so repugnant to, or incompatible with, local<br />
traditions.<br />
47. The panelist also stated that <strong>the</strong> words in<br />
paren<strong>the</strong>sis in Article 2 <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> draft Convention<br />
are subject to fur<strong>the</strong>r deliberation by <strong>the</strong> Drafting<br />
Committee. However, even without those words,<br />
o<strong>the</strong>r States would still require that Malaysia, if<br />
it decides to become a Contracting State to <strong>the</strong><br />
Convention, recognizes <strong>the</strong> maintenance orders<br />
made in respect <strong>of</strong> a child/children irrespective <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong>ir circumstances i.e. illegitimate, adopted by<br />
heterosexual parents who are not married to each<br />
o<strong>the</strong>r or homosexual parents, born out <strong>of</strong> rape or by<br />
way <strong>of</strong> donor parents/surrogate mo<strong>the</strong>rs etc.<br />
48. As regards Article 15, <strong>the</strong> option is open for Malaysia<br />
to choose to apply paragraphs 1(a) and (b) only so<br />
that a maintenance decision made in <strong>the</strong> State <strong>of</strong><br />
origin shall be recognized and enforced in Malaysia<br />
if <strong>the</strong> respondent was habitually resident in <strong>the</strong> State<br />
<strong>of</strong> origin at <strong>the</strong> time proceedings were<br />
instituted, or <strong>the</strong> respondent has submitted<br />
to <strong>the</strong> jurisdiction ei<strong>the</strong>r expressly or<br />
by defending on <strong>the</strong> merits <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> case<br />
without objecting to <strong>the</strong> jurisdiction at <strong>the</strong><br />
fi rst available opportunity. Malaysia <strong>the</strong>n<br />
may, in accordance with paragraph 2 <strong>of</strong><br />
Article 15, make a reservation in respect <strong>of</strong><br />
subparagraphs (c), (e), (f) or (g). The panelist<br />
also pointed out paragraph 3 <strong>of</strong> Article 15<br />
which applies <strong>the</strong> principle <strong>of</strong> reciprocity so<br />
that only decisions which are enforceable<br />
in <strong>the</strong> State <strong>of</strong> origin, for example, Malaysia<br />
is recognized, and enforcement in <strong>the</strong><br />
State addressed would be restricted to <strong>the</strong><br />
maintenance decision being enforceable in<br />
<strong>the</strong> State addressed. Reference was also<br />
made to Article 41 whereby <strong>the</strong> right <strong>of</strong> any<br />
Contracting State to invoke a reservation<br />
not to apply <strong>the</strong> Convention to any specifi ed<br />
family relationships or relationships based<br />
on affi nity does not extend to maintenance<br />
obligations in respect <strong>of</strong> children.
Q & A<br />
49. The fi nal Q & A on <strong>the</strong> panel discussion saw<br />
participants from Malaysia reacting to some <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> suggestions put forth by <strong>the</strong> panelists for<br />
example <strong>the</strong> Director <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Legal Aid Bureau<br />
expressed <strong>the</strong> view that <strong>the</strong> proposal for AGCM<br />
to be designated as <strong>the</strong> CA has to be given<br />
careful consideration as it involves a mammoth<br />
task. It would also necessarily mean that fullest<br />
co-operation from <strong>the</strong> Legal Aid Bureau would<br />
be expected whereas <strong>the</strong> Bureau is presently<br />
facing several shortcomings in handling <strong>the</strong> daily<br />
workload.<br />
50. Ano<strong>the</strong>r Malaysian participant raised an issue<br />
which touched upon <strong>the</strong> government system in<br />
Malaysia which demarcates between matters<br />
under <strong>the</strong> purview <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Federal government<br />
and those under <strong>the</strong> jurisdiction <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> State<br />
government. The question posed was how to<br />
ensure <strong>the</strong> smooth running <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> implementation<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> obligations under <strong>the</strong> draft Convention if <strong>the</strong><br />
CA is a federal organization whereas enforcement<br />
<strong>of</strong> maintenance orders issued by <strong>the</strong> Syariah<br />
Courts is a matter within <strong>the</strong> purview <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> State<br />
government. One <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> panelist replied to <strong>the</strong><br />
effect that with mutual and good co-operation<br />
between all parties concerned, such problems<br />
would not be insurmountable.<br />
87
REPORT OF<br />
88<br />
SPECIAL PROJECT BETWEEN MALAYSIA – SINGAPORE<br />
CASE CONCERNING LAND RECLAMATION BY SINGAPORE<br />
IN AND AROUND THE STRAITS OF JOHOR
SPECIAL PROJECT BETWEEN MALAYSIA-SINGAPORE<br />
CASE CONCERNING LAND RECLAMATION BY SINGAPORE<br />
IN AND AROUND THE STRAITS OF JOHOR<br />
BACKGROUND<br />
• This case is, amongst o<strong>the</strong>rs, one <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> special<br />
projects that Unit V has been involved in. This<br />
particular special project has been concluded<br />
successfully.<br />
• The dispute concerns land reclamation activities<br />
carried out by Singapore, which impinge upon<br />
Malaysia's rights in and around <strong>the</strong> Straits <strong>of</strong><br />
Johor that separate Singapore from Malaysia.<br />
• The attempts by <strong>the</strong> parties to resolve <strong>the</strong> dispute<br />
vide exchange <strong>of</strong> views were unsuccessful.<br />
CHRONOLOGY<br />
• 2001-2003: Exchange <strong>of</strong> views by <strong>the</strong> parties on <strong>the</strong><br />
dispute concerning Singapore’s land reclamation<br />
activities.<br />
• July 2003: Malaysia submitted a written Notifi cation<br />
and Statement <strong>of</strong> Claim to Singapore instituting<br />
arbitral proceedings as provided for in Annex VII to<br />
<strong>the</strong> United Nations Convention on <strong>the</strong> Law <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
Sea 1982 (UNCLOS) concerning <strong>the</strong> said dispute.<br />
• September 2003: Malaysia submitted a Request<br />
for <strong>the</strong> prescription <strong>of</strong> provisional measures by <strong>the</strong><br />
International Tribunal for <strong>the</strong> Law <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Sea (ITLOS)<br />
Article 290(5) <strong>of</strong> UNCLOS.<br />
• 25-27 September 2003: Oral hearings and<br />
submissions by <strong>the</strong> parties.<br />
• 8 October 2003: ITLOS made its Provisional<br />
Measures Orders.<br />
REQUEST FOR PROVISIONAL MEASURES<br />
• In its written notifi cation <strong>of</strong> 4 July 2003, Malaysia<br />
also requested that, pending <strong>the</strong> constitution <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
Arbitral Tribunal under Annex VII <strong>of</strong> UNCLOS (Annex<br />
VII Tribunal), Singapore agree to certain provisional<br />
measures specifi ed <strong>the</strong>rein.<br />
• Malaysia fur<strong>the</strong>r requested that if Singapore were<br />
unable to agree to <strong>the</strong> provisional measures<br />
sought, Singapore should agree that <strong>the</strong> question<br />
<strong>of</strong> provisional measures be forthwith submitted to<br />
<strong>the</strong> ITLOS.<br />
• Pursuant to no agreement by Singapore on<br />
Malaysia’s request for provisional measures after<br />
two weeks since <strong>the</strong> date on which Malaysia made<br />
<strong>the</strong> said request, Malaysia submitted its request for<br />
provisional measures to ITLOS in accordance with<br />
Article 290(5) <strong>of</strong> UNCLOS.<br />
ARTICLE 290(5) OF UNCLOS<br />
• Article 290(5) <strong>of</strong> UNCLOS, among o<strong>the</strong>r things,<br />
provides that-<br />
“…pending <strong>the</strong> constitution an arbitral tribunal<br />
to which a dispute is being submitted and if,<br />
within two weeks from <strong>the</strong> date <strong>of</strong> a request for<br />
provisional measures, <strong>the</strong> parties do not agree to<br />
submit <strong>the</strong> request to ano<strong>the</strong>r court or tribunal,<br />
ITLOS may prescribe provisional measures if it<br />
considers that prima facie <strong>the</strong> arbitral tribunal to<br />
be constituted would have jurisdiction and that<br />
<strong>the</strong> urgency <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> situation so requires…”<br />
MALAYSIA’S REQUEST FOR PROVISIONAL<br />
MEASURES<br />
• Pending <strong>the</strong> constitution <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Annex VII Tribunal,<br />
Malaysia requested that ITLOS prescribes <strong>the</strong><br />
following provisional measures:<br />
(a)<br />
That Singapore shall, pending <strong>the</strong> decision<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Arbitral Tribunal, suspend all current<br />
land reclamation activities in <strong>the</strong> vicinity <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> maritime boundary between <strong>the</strong> two<br />
States or <strong>of</strong> areas claimed as territorial<br />
waters by Malaysia (and specifi cally around<br />
Pulau Tekong and Tuas);<br />
89
90<br />
(b)<br />
(c)<br />
(d)<br />
To <strong>the</strong> extent it has not already done so,<br />
provide Malaysia with full information as to<br />
<strong>the</strong> current and projected works, including<br />
in particular <strong>the</strong>ir proposed extent, <strong>the</strong>ir<br />
method <strong>of</strong> construction, <strong>the</strong> origin and kind<br />
<strong>of</strong> materials used, and designs for coastal<br />
protection and remediation (if any);<br />
Afford Malaysia a full opportunity to<br />
comment upon <strong>the</strong> works and <strong>the</strong>ir<br />
potential impacts having regard, inter alia,<br />
to <strong>the</strong> information provided; and<br />
Agree to negotiate with Malaysia concerning<br />
any remaining unresolved issues.<br />
MALAYSIA’S ARGUMENT FOR THE REQUEST<br />
• Malaysia claimed that Singapore's action in<br />
engaging in land reclamation around Pulau Tekong<br />
and Tuas is causing serious and irreversible<br />
damage to <strong>the</strong> marine environment and serious<br />
prejudice to <strong>the</strong> rights <strong>of</strong> Malaysia.<br />
• Malaysia maintained that <strong>the</strong> land reclamation<br />
activities are producing major changes to both <strong>the</strong><br />
fl ow regime and sedimentation and are effecting<br />
coastal erosion. In this regard, Malaysia sought<br />
to preserve its rights relating to <strong>the</strong> maintenance<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> marine and coastal environment and <strong>the</strong><br />
preservation <strong>of</strong> its rights <strong>of</strong> maritime access to its<br />
coastline, as guaranteed by UNCLOS.<br />
• Malaysia argued that <strong>the</strong> conditions for <strong>the</strong><br />
prescription <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> provisional measures that is “to<br />
preserve <strong>the</strong> respective rights <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> parties to <strong>the</strong><br />
dispute or to prevent serious harm to <strong>the</strong> marine<br />
environment” are met.<br />
• Malaysia also argued that urgency <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> situation<br />
requires <strong>the</strong> prescription <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> provisional<br />
measures given that <strong>the</strong>re is little prospect that<br />
<strong>the</strong> Annex VII Tribunal will be established and able<br />
to render a decision on provisional measures on<br />
an immediate basis.<br />
SINGAPORE’S ARGUMENT<br />
• Singapore argued that <strong>the</strong> exchange <strong>of</strong> views<br />
between <strong>the</strong> parties, which Article 283 <strong>of</strong> UNCLOS<br />
makes a precondition to <strong>the</strong> activation <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
compulsory dispute settlement procedures (i.e.<br />
referral to Annex VII Tribunal) have not occurred.<br />
As a consequence, <strong>the</strong> Annex VII tribunal and<br />
hence ITLOS, acting under Article 290(5) <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
Convention, lacks <strong>the</strong> prima facie jurisdiction<br />
which is a prerequisite to prescribing provisional<br />
measures.<br />
• Singapore submitted that Malaysia’s Request<br />
fails to “specify… <strong>the</strong> reasons” for requesting<br />
provisional measures, as required by Article 89 <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> ITLOS Rules.<br />
• Singapore argued that Malaysia failed to specify<br />
<strong>the</strong> possible consequences if <strong>the</strong> provisional<br />
measures requested by Malaysia are not granted,<br />
for <strong>the</strong> preservation <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> respective rights <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
parties or for <strong>the</strong> prevention <strong>of</strong> serious harm to <strong>the</strong><br />
marine environment.<br />
• Singapore maintained that Malaysia fails to<br />
indicate <strong>the</strong> urgency <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> situation. Provisional<br />
measures may be prescribed under Article 290(5)<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Convention only in cases <strong>of</strong> urgency.<br />
Singapore’s reclamation works are not recent.<br />
Singapore is undertaking no works that have<br />
not long been announced and subject to public<br />
scrutiny and comment. The reclamation projects<br />
have long been known to Malaysia.<br />
ITLOS DECISION<br />
• With respect to <strong>the</strong> obligation to exchange views<br />
set out in Article 283 <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Convention, ITLOS<br />
considered that Malaysia was not obliged to<br />
continue with an exchange <strong>of</strong> views when it<br />
concluded that this exchange could not yield<br />
a positive result. ITLOS noted Singapore’s<br />
contention that <strong>the</strong> parties had embarked on<br />
a negotiation process but <strong>the</strong> said negotiation<br />
process took place after <strong>the</strong> institution <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
Annex VII arbitral proceedings. ITLOS found that<br />
<strong>the</strong> Annex VII tribunal would prima facie have<br />
jurisdiction over <strong>the</strong> dispute. ITLOS also fi nds that<br />
<strong>the</strong> case is admissible.<br />
• With regard to <strong>the</strong> parties’ argument on urgency,<br />
ITLOS found that Malaysia has not shown that<br />
<strong>the</strong>re is a situation <strong>of</strong> urgency or that <strong>the</strong>re is a
isk that its rights with respect to an area <strong>of</strong> its<br />
territorial sea would suffer irreversible damage<br />
pending consideration <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> merits <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> case<br />
by <strong>the</strong> arbitral tribunal. Therefore, ITLOS did not<br />
consider it appropriate to prescribe provisional<br />
measures with respect to <strong>the</strong> land reclamation by<br />
Singapore in <strong>the</strong> sector <strong>of</strong> Tuas.<br />
ITLOS ORDER FOR PROVISIONAL MEASURES<br />
• Malaysia and Singapore shall cooperate and shall,<br />
for this purpose, enter into consultations forthwith<br />
in order to -<br />
prejudice to <strong>the</strong> rights <strong>of</strong> Malaysia or serious harm<br />
to <strong>the</strong> marine environment, taking especially into<br />
account <strong>the</strong> reports <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> group <strong>of</strong> independent<br />
experts.<br />
STUDY BY THE GROUP OF EXPERTS<br />
• The study by <strong>the</strong> Group <strong>of</strong> Experts as directed by<br />
<strong>the</strong> ITLOS Order was completed pursuant to <strong>the</strong><br />
submission <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> report entitled “Report <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
Group <strong>of</strong> Independent Experts (GOE) in <strong>the</strong> matter<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> ITLOS Order <strong>of</strong> 8 October 2003” to <strong>the</strong> two<br />
Governments on 5 November 2004.<br />
(b)<br />
(a)<br />
establish promptly a group <strong>of</strong> independent<br />
experts with <strong>the</strong> mandate -<br />
(i)<br />
(ii)<br />
to conduct a study, on terms <strong>of</strong><br />
reference to be agreed by Malaysia<br />
and Singapore, to determine, within<br />
a period not exceeding one year from<br />
<strong>the</strong> date <strong>of</strong> this Order, <strong>the</strong> effects <strong>of</strong><br />
Singapore’s land reclamation and to<br />
propose, as appropriate, measures to<br />
deal with any adverse effects <strong>of</strong> such<br />
land reclamation; and<br />
to prepare, as soon as possible, an<br />
interim report on <strong>the</strong> subject <strong>of</strong> infi lling<br />
works in Area D at Pulau Tekong;<br />
exchange, on a regular basis, information on,<br />
and assess risks or effects <strong>of</strong>, Singapore’s land<br />
reclamation works; and<br />
• The Governments <strong>of</strong> Malaysia and Singapore<br />
met on 22-23 December 2004 and 7-9<br />
January 2005 to consult on how to implement<br />
<strong>the</strong> recommendations made by <strong>the</strong> GOE in <strong>the</strong><br />
said report. Both Governments accepted <strong>the</strong><br />
recommendations <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> GOE and agreed to use<br />
<strong>the</strong>se recommendations as <strong>the</strong> basis <strong>of</strong> a mutually<br />
acceptable and benefi cial solution.<br />
SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT<br />
• Pursuant to <strong>the</strong> ITLOS Order for Provisional<br />
Measures, Malaysia and Singapore proceeded<br />
to seek an award on agreed terms from <strong>the</strong><br />
Permanent Court <strong>of</strong> Arbitration. The settlement<br />
agreement signed by <strong>the</strong> parties on 26 April 2004<br />
amongst o<strong>the</strong>rs required for <strong>the</strong> following:<br />
(a)<br />
Implementation <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> recommendations <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> GOE’s report;<br />
91<br />
(c)<br />
implement <strong>the</strong> commitments noted in this Order<br />
and avoid any action incompatible with <strong>the</strong>ir<br />
effective implementation, and, without prejudice<br />
to <strong>the</strong>ir positions on any issue before <strong>the</strong> Annex VII<br />
arbitral tribunal, consult with a view to reaching a<br />
prompt agreement on such temporary measures<br />
with respect to Area D at Pulau Tekong, including<br />
suspension or adjustment, as may be found<br />
necessary to ensure that <strong>the</strong> infi lling operations<br />
pending completion <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> study referred to in<br />
subparagraph (a)(i) with respect to that area do<br />
not prejudice Singapore’s ability to implement <strong>the</strong><br />
commitments referred to in paragraphs 85 to 87.<br />
• Directs Singapore not to conduct its land<br />
reclamation in ways that might cause irreparable<br />
(b)<br />
(c)<br />
(d)<br />
Singapore’s reassurance to Malaysia that<br />
even after <strong>the</strong> Pulau Tekong reclamation,<br />
<strong>the</strong> safe and smooth passage <strong>of</strong> ships<br />
through Kuala Johor and Calder Harbour<br />
will not be adversely affected by <strong>the</strong> said<br />
reclamation;<br />
The terms <strong>of</strong> reference <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Malaysia-<br />
Singapore Joint Committee on <strong>the</strong><br />
Environment (MSJCE) to be expanded; and<br />
The settlement <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> dispute between<br />
Malaysia and Singapore in relations to <strong>the</strong><br />
said dispute under Annex VII <strong>of</strong> UNCLOS.
financial statement<br />
Object Category<br />
INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS DIVISION<br />
EXPENDITURE FOR 2005<br />
* 2005 Allocation<br />
(RM)<br />
*2005<br />
Expenditure<br />
(RM)<br />
2005<br />
Expenditure’s<br />
Surplus<br />
(RM)<br />
Expenditure’s<br />
Percentage<br />
(%)<br />
11000 - Salary and Wages 1,178,410.00 1,663,384.53 484,974.53 141.15<br />
12000 - Fixed Allowances 444,230.00 579,014.65 134,784.65 129.66<br />
13000 - Statutory Funds For Staff 77,620.00 105,773.00 28,153.00 136.27<br />
14000 - Overtime Allowances 2,650.00 1,845.92 _ 69.65<br />
15000 - O<strong>the</strong>r Financial Benefi ts 111,000.00 133,546.87 22,546.87 120.31<br />
21000 - Transportation Expenditure and Living<br />
Expenses<br />
94,910.00 57,506.84 _ 60.59<br />
22000 - Transportation <strong>of</strong> Goods 2,900.00 503.00 _ 17.34<br />
23000 - Communications and Utilities 8,440.00 6,702.75 _ 79.41<br />
24000 - Rental 6,090.00 2,953.80 _ 48.50<br />
25000 - Food and Drinks 0.00 0.00 _ _<br />
94<br />
26000 - Raw material supplies and materials for<br />
maintenance and renovation<br />
11,600.00 7,270.12 _ 62.67<br />
27000 - Supplies and O<strong>the</strong>r Material 34,780.00 15,109.10 _ 43.44<br />
28000 - Maintenance and Small Renovation<br />
Purchases<br />
16,500.00 8,269.00 _ 50.11<br />
29000 - Pr<strong>of</strong>essional services and o<strong>the</strong>r services<br />
purchased and hospitality<br />
296,630.00 193,332.61 _ 65.17<br />
43000 - Overseas Grants 120,300.00 85,883.94 _ 71.39<br />
* Based on Vote Book for <strong>the</strong> International Affairs Division.<br />
INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS DIVISION<br />
EXPENDITURE FOR 2005<br />
Object Category<br />
2005 Allocation<br />
(RM)<br />
2005 Expenditure<br />
(RM)<br />
2005<br />
Expenditure’s<br />
Surplus<br />
(RM)<br />
Expenditure’s<br />
Percentage<br />
(%)<br />
One-Off 1,500,000.00 1,741,382.77 241,382.77 116.09
acknowledgements<br />
Special gratitude to <strong>the</strong> <strong>Attorney</strong> General <strong>of</strong> Malaysia, Y.Bhg. Tan Sri Abdul Gani<br />
Patail and <strong>the</strong> Solicitor General <strong>of</strong> Malaysia, Y. Bhg. Puan Sri Datuk Zaitun<br />
Zawiyah binti Puteh for providing <strong>the</strong>ir precious and inspirational words in<br />
conjunction with <strong>the</strong> publication <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> International Affairs Division Annual<br />
Report 2005. We also would like to give our heartiest thanks to <strong>the</strong> individuals and<br />
all who had been involved, directly or indirectly, in achieving our aim to complete<br />
and publish this Annual Report especially Madam Azailiza Mohd. Ahad.<br />
Advisor<br />
Madam Azailiza Mohd. Ahad<br />
Chief Editors<br />
Madam Aliza Sulaiman<br />
Mr. Azman Ahmad<br />
95<br />
Editors<br />
Mr. Stanley Clement Augustin<br />
Madam Rohana Abdul Malek<br />
Madam Almalena Sharmila Dato’ Dr. Johan<br />
Mr. Mohd.Radzi Harun<br />
Ms. Swandra Kim Chu Ramachandran<br />
Mr. Umar Saifuddin Jaafar<br />
Members <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Editorial Board<br />
Mr. Muhammad Rushdan Mohamed<br />
Mr. Faezul Adzra<br />
Ms. Dorah Abdul Kadir<br />
Ms. Noorafiza Mat<br />
Ms. Natra Idris<br />
Madam Norhayati Abdul Ghani<br />
Ms. Olivia Chin Su Fung<br />
Mr. Mustafar Rashidi Hasan @ Abdul Rashid<br />
And all <strong>of</strong>ficers and staff <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> International Affairs Division (2005/ 2006)<br />
for <strong>the</strong>ir kind assistance, support, and cooperation.