Zhulkarnain Abdul Rahim on Family Justice Reform Bill

The Family Justice Reform Bill will enhance the maintenance enforcement process to facilitate maintenance outcomes and will put the judiciary in a good position to strengthen and mete out therapeutic justice in the divorce process, said MP Zhulkarnain Abdul Rahim. Speaking in Parliament on Monday (May 8), he hopes the proposed laws will apply equally in the enforcement of Syariah court orders. He also sought clarifications. One relates to Maintenance Enforcement Officers (MEOs). He wanted to know more about the Government’s plans on recruitment, resourcing and training, as well as the protection and immunity that will be given to them if they encounter hostile situations. Turning to claims for past outstanding maintenance payments, he asked if there is a limitation period to make such claims. He also pointed out that the financial strain on the paying party is “real” and stressed the need to balance their interests and provide support, especially in cases where the respondents have been declared bankrupt.