Description
Defamation law reform has struggled to keep pace with the rapid evolution of digital communication, resulting
in a growing gap that presents challenges for legislators around the world. In Malaysia, the Defamation Act 1957
has come under sustained criticism for its limitations in addressing the realities of today’s digital and social landscape.
The Bar Council Civil Law and Law Reform Committee has established a subcommittee on the Defamation Law Reform
to undertake a review of the Act in light of these developments. Among the areas identified for potential reform are sections 8, 9, 10, 12, 16, 18, and 19, which are particularly significant in aligning the law with modern communication dynamics and societal expectations.
This forum is convened to encourage feedback and facilitate constructive discourse on the proposed amendments.
It also seeks to explore how the law can strike a fair balance between protecting individuals from defamatory harm
and safeguarding freedom of expression in Malaysia.
The primary objective of the forum is to deliberate on the suggested amendments to key provisions of the
Defamation Act 1957. Should the proposed changes be adopted, they may necessitate the repeal and replacement
of the current Act. Speakers will share insights on both the existing framework and the reform proposals, offering
valuable perspectives to all those engaged in the ongoing conversation on defamation law in Malaysia.
Terms and Conditions
Event Policy
Advance registration is required. Places will be allocated on a first come, first served basis.
Registration for the event will close on 26 May 2025 (Monday), at 12:00 pm.
The organiser reserves the right to modify, cancel or postpone the event, should circumstances
arise that make such action necessary.
Cancellation
Cancellations must be made in writing.
Substitutions are allowed. Kindly inform us in writing with the relevant details at least three days
in advance.
If you have failed to inform the organiser of your cancellation for three consecutive times, you may
be blacklisted for future events.
Refunds
Refunds will be processed after the event is completed. This may take up to 30 business days.
The conditions for refunds are as follows:
- Full refunds will be issued if the event is cancelled or postponed by the organiser due to
some circumstances.
- There will be no refunds for cancellations made fewer than seven working days before the
session but substitutions are allowed.
The organiser reserves the right to modify, cancel or postpone the event, should circumstances arise
that make such action necessary, whereupon all registration fees paid will be refunded.
Transferral
You are allowed to transfer your place to another participant, but you must notify the organiser with the
necessary details at least three days in advance.
Attendance
CPD points for CPD Scheme will not be awarded to lawyers and pupils in chambers from Peninsular Malaysia
who arrive more than 15 minutes late, are not present throughout the event, or leave before its scheduled end.
Privacy
The personal information that you provide to the Malaysian Bar, whether now or in the future, may be used,
recorded, stored, disclosed or otherwise processed by or on behalf of the Malaysian Bar for the purposes of
facilitation and organisation of this event, research and audit, maintenance of a participant database for the
promotion of this event, and such ancillary services as may be relevant.
Disclaimer
- Materials (if any) will be emailed only. No printed notes will be provided.
- No recording of the event is permitted via any means at any time.
- No part of the event content may be used/reproduced in any form without the written and explicit consent of the Bar Council and speaker(s).
