Liew suggests set-up of Law Ministry

‘Independent ministry will be able to do more for law reforms’

PETALING JAYA: A slew of unpopular laws such as the Anti-Fake News Act 2018 are set to be stamped out.

But first, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law) Datuk Liew Vui Keong is proposing to set up a Law Ministry and subsequently a Law Commission to carry out such reforms.

The Law portfolio, which is currently parked under the Prime Minister’s Department, faces restrictions in terms of structuring and finance, said Liew.

With an independent ministry, it will stand on its own and deliver positive impact from the Pakatan Harapan Government’s manifesto to reform the law and strengthen the rule of law, he said.

“I want to see the end of the Anti Fake-News Act 2018.

“The Pakatan Government has also pledged to abolish it, therefore, we will comply,” said the former deputy International Trade and Industry minister in a recent interview.

Other controversial laws to be reviewed include the Sedition Act, the Prevention of Crime Act (POCA) and the Security Offences (Special Measures) Act (Sosma) 2012.

“It will take time but if there is a will, which I have, and backing from the Pakatan Government, we could have this Law Ministry set up in 12

It will take time but if there is a will, which I have, and backing from the Pakatan Government, we could have this Law Ministry set up in 12 months, to be followed by the formation of the Law Commission. Datuk Liew Vui Keong

months, to be followed by the formation of the Law Commission,” said the Parti Warisan Sabah permanent chairman.

Liew said the commission would come up with recommendations on these laws to the Attorney General, who will check their feasibility and viability.

The commission could be chaired by a prominent member of the judiciary, said Liew, who also suggested for it to comprise 10 commissioners.

They will study the various implications of reforming these laws, and most importantly, engage with the public and stakeholders, he added.