Set up special team to coordinate LPA issues - Azalina

A special team will be set up to coordinate all matters relating to the legal aid system in the country in line with the proposed amendments to the Legal Profession Act 1976 (LPA).

Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said said, it will refine the role of government agencies and non-governmental organisations in delivering legal aid more precisely to the people.

She also explained that the proposed amendments to the LPA, which have been a subject controversy, were not meant to control the Bar Council.

Instead, it is made in line with Section 42 (1) (I) of the LPA or Act 166.

"Legal practitioners should not worry about the amendments to the LPA because the government will seek feedback from all parties before implementing it.

"They promote good relations and social interaction among Bar Council members and between members and others involved in the administration of law and justice in this country.

"As the minister responsible in regulating legal affairs, I am in the process of discussions with the stakeholders," she told a press conference after having a meeting with the Legal Aid Foundation and Bar Council in the Parliament building today.

Azalina said, the proposed amendments are for the continued interest of the country's legal system and the parties concerned.

"It is especially meant to protect some 17,000 registered lawyers in the country," she said.

He added that the government is also aware that many things need to be scrutinised before any changes can be made.

"We will continue to hold meetings and discussions with the Bar Council before it is brought to Parliament in the next session in October," she said.

Previously, she asserted that the claim made by some parties that the amendments are the government's way of intervening with the affairs of the Bar Council, is inaccurate.

She said the statement is immature and disrespectful towards the country's system.