SBC/CIR/142/2025

04th February 2026



Dear Members of the Selangor Bar,



The Selangor Bar Committee recently met with the Pengarah Pendakwaan Negeri Selangor to address several matters raised by members concerning criminal practice in Selangor. The issues discussed and the outcomes of the engagement are summarised below.



1. Non Interference with Witnesses in Criminal Proceedings

The Pengarah Pendakwaan Negeri Selangor expressed concern regarding instances of lawyers interfering with witnesses, particularly in sexual offence cases involving children.

Members are reminded that any form of interference, influence, coaching, or communication with witnesses—direct or indirect—in ongoing criminal proceedings is strictly prohibited. Such conduct may amount to professional misconduct and jeopardise the integrity of the justice system.



2. Access to Charge Sheets at Sepang Court

Members previously reported difficulties in obtaining copies of the Charge Sheet at the Sepang Court. This issue has now been resolved.

The Pengarah Pendakwaan Negeri Selangor has directed all Deputy Public Prosecutors to provide lawyers with a copy of the Charge Sheet, or at the very least, to permit lawyers to photograph the document for reference.



3. Length of Replies to Representation Letters

The Committee conveyed members’ concerns regarding delays in receiving replies to representation letters.

The Pengarah Pendakwaan Negeri Selangor explained that the time required to issue such replies depends on several factors, including:

the complexity of the matter,

the level of approval authority required, and

the responsiveness of the investigative body to directions issued by the Attorney General’s Chambers.



4. Withdrawal of Cases and the Role of the Deputy Public Prosecutor

Concerns were raised regarding situations where Deputy Public Prosecutors proceed with matters even after the First Information Report (FIR) has been withdrawn.

The Pengarah Pendakwaan Negeri Selangor clarified that the discretion to withdraw a case rests solely with the prosecution. In certain cases, the FIR may be lodged by an informant who is not the victim. While the informant may wish to withdraw the report, the victim may still desire for the case to proceed. In such circumstances, the prosecution retains the authority to continue with the matter to ensure justice is served.



The Selangor Bar Committee appreciates members who have raised these concerns and will continue to advocate on behalf of the criminal Bar to ensure smooth and fair administration of justice.

Thank you.



Yours faithfully,

Yu Ai Ting

Chairman

Selangor Bar Committee

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