Govt considering replacing professional qualification exam for lawyers

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia is considering introducing a comprehensive common bar course (CBC) or exam (CBE) to enhance the Certificate in Legal Practice (CLP), the current professional qualification exam for lawyers, says M. Kula Segaran.

The Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform) said this was to align the CLP with international standards such as the Bar Professional Training Course in the United Kingdom.

“The existing CLP, which is a fully written examination, will be enhanced with components focusing on skills and practical training, including advocacy and mock trials,” he said during the Special Chamber session in Parliament on Tuesday (Oct 29).

“In a meeting on Oct 8, the Legal Profession Qualifying Board approved a new proposal to form a CBC curriculum committee.

“This committee is tasked with discussing the curriculum and syllabus development for the CBC,” Kula said when responding to a question form S. Kesavan (PH-Sungai Siput).

He said it would be thoroughly studied to assess its potential implications, particularly for both local and international law graduates.

“Among the aspects that need to be studied are the syllabus and curriculum, assessment methods, trainers, administration, management and financial requirements necessary for rolling out the CBC/CBE.

“Ongoing consultation sessions with relevant stakeholders will ensure all issues are addressed. Currently, the LPQB and the Malaysian Bar are actively drafting an implementation plan,” he said.