KOTA KINABALU (Feb 14): The state government is seeking to establish the Sabah native court judicial department by this year.

Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor said the move would dignify native laws and boost the image and give prestige to customary chiefs in court.

“The empowerment of the native court is important, and a special committee through the Sabah Native Affairs Council (MHEANS) has also been set up to draft, amend and review relevant enactments and ordinances.

“This is to upgrade the judicial system of the native court to be on par with the civil and shariah courts,” he said in a statement here on Wednesday.

Meanwhile, Hajiji said customary chiefs play a strategic role in guiding, supporting and promoting the empowerment of local communities, ensuring their contribution to Sabah's direction towards prosperity.

“The roles of native chiefs and village heads are increasingly challenging, requiring leadership wisdom to create a harmonious, peaceful and united community,” he added.