REFORMING MALAYSIA’S DEATH-INVESTIGATION SYSTEM: THE APPOINTMENT OF CORONERS AND THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE CORONER’S COURT

Abstract

In Malaysia, Sessions Court judges perform coroner functions without dedicated training or institutional support, limiting the independence and effectiveness of death investigations. This article examines Malaysia’s coroner appointment framework and the absence of specialised Coroner’s Courts, contrasting it with the established systems in England and Wales, Australia, and Canada. Comparator jurisdictions appoint specialised coroners and operate purpose-built coronial courts with clear statutory mandates. The study identifies key structural gaps in Malaysia’s model and highlights the need for legislative reform, professionalised appointments, and independent coronial institutions to enhance accountability and public confidence. The reform proposals outlined, which include separating the coroner role from judicial duties, setting up a National Coroner’s Office, creating independent Coroner’s Courts, modernising legal frameworks, instituting comprehensive training, and implementing robust audit mechanisms, collectively aim to transform Malaysia’s coroner system into a world-class institution. These measures require legislative reform, institutional capacity building, dedicated funding, and political commitment despite possible resistance or initial costs.