Constitutional overhaul needed to split AG and PP roles, says minister

The proposal to split the roles of Attorney-General and Public Prosecutor would represent a significant institutional restructuring, according to Minister Azalina Othman Said. She explained that the undertaking extends beyond simple administrative changes, requiring substantial constitutional and legislative amendments to be properly executed. The timeline reflects the complexity involved in untangling two historically intertwined positions within Malaysia's legal system.

Azalina noted that the Federal Constitution would need to be amended as part of the reform process. Additionally, more than 20 pieces of legislation directly connected to these roles would require modification to accommodate the separation. Such a comprehensive overhaul demands careful coordination between various government agencies and parliamentary procedures.

The separation of these roles has been part of broader discussions regarding judicial and institutional reform in Malaysia. Proponents argue that dividing the responsibilities could enhance checks and balances within the legal system and clarify the distinct functions currently held by a single office.

The minister's comments suggest that while the government is committed to pursuing this reform, stakeholders should anticipate a protracted implementation period as the necessary legal framework is developed and approved.