Procedures
English-derived procedure under the Rules of Court 2012
Civil procedure follows the English tradition, consolidated in the Rules of Court 2012 which merged the previous High Court and subordinate court rules. Malaysia abolished appeals to the Privy Council in 1985. The judiciary has invested heavily in case management and e-filing, and Malaysian civil litigation is comparatively fast by regional standards.
Governing law
- Rules of Court 2012 — Unified civil procedure rules.
- Courts of Judicature Act 1964 — Superior court jurisdiction and appeals.
In practice
The High Court has unlimited civil jurisdiction; Sessions and Magistrates' Courts have monetary limits. Appeal lies from the High Court to the Court of Appeal and then to the Federal Court with leave. The Limitation Act 1953 sets a six-year period for contract and tort in Peninsular Malaysia. E-filing and case management are mandatory in most courts under the Rules of Court 2012. Sabah and Sarawak have their own limitation ordinances — do not apply the Peninsular Act there. The Asian International Arbitration Centre in Kuala Lumpur is a well-used regional arbitral seat.