LIFE ON HOLD: LEGAL AND PRACTICAL ISSUES IN PRESUMPTION OF DEATH CASES IN MALAYSIA
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.18623/rvd.v22.n5.3863Keywords:
Presumption of Death, Missing Persons, Seven Years, Probate and AdministrationAbstract
This article examines the issues and legal challenges faced by families and beneficiaries of missing persons in Malaysia due to the seven-year waiting period under Section 108 of the Evidence Act 1950 and the absence of a dedicated presumption of death framework. Data were collected from statutory provisions, including the Evidence Act 1950 and the Births and Deaths Registration Act 1957 (as amended in 2017), as well as qualitative insights from the author’s legal practice. The findings show that the mandatory waiting period imposes significant legal, financial, and emotional burdens. It impacts the delay of estate administration, financial claims, government benefits, transfer of property ownership, and family closure. The lack of a specific presumption of death statute leaves affected families in prolonged uncertainty, unable to act on behalf of the missing person or resolve critical legal affairs. The article concludes by urging legislative reform to provide clarity, uniformity, and timely legal relief.
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