Former Selangor Bar chairman supports reinstating court functions at Bangunan Sultan Abdul Samad to honour legal heritage and public trust.
KUALA LUMPUR: Reinstating court functions at Bangunan Sultan Abdul Samad would honour the continuity of Malaysia’s justice system and reinforce public trust.
Former Selangor Bar chairman Kokila Vaani Vadiveloo said the historic building holds deep significance for the legal community and the public.
“For many in the legal community and the public, the building is more than a historic landmark,” she told Bernama.
She said it is closely associated with the country’s highest courts and important moments in constitutional development.
Restoring a judicial presence would reconnect the courts with a space symbolising authority, stability and public trust.
It would also ensure heritage buildings remain part of everyday civic life rather than static monuments.
“Heritage buildings matter most when they remain part of everyday civic life,” Kokila said.
She is the deputy chairperson of the Bar Council Ad Hoc Parliament Liaison Committee.
With proper planning, she said the building can meet modern judicial needs while preserving its character.
This would allow Malaysia to move forward without losing touch with its legal history foundations.
She highlighted the building’s central location along Jalan Raja in the Dataran Merdeka area.
Its accessibility via public transportation supports ongoing efforts to enhance access to justice.
Kokila said the building would be well-suited to once again house the Federal Court.
The Judiciary currently comprises 14 Federal Court judges.
“Reinstating the Federal Court there would allow the institution of the Malaysian Judiciary to be remembered through iconic and historic milestones,” she said.
She added that specialised courts, including human rights courts, could also be gradually introduced there.
On a personal note, Kokila said her early exposure to the old court buildings left a lasting impression.
“I used to follow my late father to the old court buildings,” she said.
The magnificence of the structure reminded her that courts are where law and order must always take utmost importance.
The Malaysian Bar yesterday urged authorities to consider reinstating court functions at the building.
It cited the site’s legal heritage and called for a structured feasibility review.
The review would cover security, accessibility, conservation and long-term upkeep.
