KL courts tighten security and rotate police staff to curb alleged touting

THE Kuala Lumpur Court Complex is set to implement rotational police placements in an effort to curb alleged touting activities said to involve lawyers and other individuals.

The initiative follows complaints lodged on 22 September claiming that unauthorised approaches to defendants and their families had been taking place within the court premises.

In a circular issued to the media, the Office of the Chief Registrar of the Federal Court said the decision was reached during discussions with the Kuala Lumpur Court Branch of the Royal Malaysia Police on 8 October.

The plan provides for the deployment of police officers at each court within the complex on a rolling basis.

“Job rotation will be carried out every few months to ensure the risk of abuse of power can be addressed,” the circular stated.

In addition to staffing changes, public access to the court lock-up area will be further restricted. Only lawyers and representatives from the National Legal Aid Foundation (YBGK) acting for accused persons will be permitted to meet their clients outside the lock-up, and even then only when conditions allow.

Monitoring measures are also being strengthened. Supervisors at the Kuala Lumpur Courts will conduct ongoing oversight to ensure no court personnel are involved in touting or related misconduct.

“Should any party have specific complaints against any court staff, please submit the matter to the Kuala Lumpur Courts for appropriate action,” the circular added.

“The unit expresses its sincere appreciation for bringing this issue to our attention. We take seriously the concerns raised in the letter and appropriate measures will be implemented from time to time to address the problem,” it said. - December 8, 2025