Kuala lumpur: In the courtroom, a single misunderstood word can carry significant consequences, particularly when it concerns an individual's rights and liberty. For legal practitioners dealing with clients, witnesses, and accused persons from different backgrounds, the ability to communicate in more than one language is not merely a professional advantage. It can help ensure that individuals fully understand the legal processes they are involved in and are able to communicate their concerns accurately.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, in Malaysia's multiracial and multilingual society, linguistic ability plays an important role in ensuring equal access to justice and in preventing language barriers from becoming obstacles for anyone seeking legal redress. Lawyer Jason Wee Chuan Yuan highlighted that his proficiency in Malay, English, and Mandarin, as well as several Chinese dialects, had greatly assisted him in obtaining information from clients, particularly those more comfortable communicating in languages other than Malay or English.
"When individuals can explain their issues in the language they are most proficient in, the information obtained is more complete and accurate, thereby facilitating the formulation of more effective case strategies," said Wee, who handles a wide range of civil, commercial, criminal, and corporate matters. Wee, known as "Abe Jay," emphasized the importance of building trust with clients by communicating in a language they easily understand, especially when navigating complex or intimidating legal proceedings.
A similar approach is adopted by Deputy Public Prosecutor (DPP) B. Deevagaran Naidu, who is proficient in English, Tamil, and Mandarin, as well as several local Malay dialects, when dealing with individuals involved in prosecution proceedings. Deevagaran stated that his proficiency in Mandarin had proved valuable during case preparation when dealing with Chinese witnesses or victims who were not fluent in Malay.
Having served for two years at the Kuantan Magistrate's Court in Pahang, Deevagaran remains committed to ensuring fair and impartial treatment for all accused persons. He added that interpreters play a crucial role in ensuring court proceedings are accurately understood by all parties involved.
Meanwhile, lawyer Ahmad Shamil Azad Abdul Hamid stressed the importance of using simple language and interpreter services to ensure clients understand court proceedings and can provide accurate instructions to their counsel. Drawing from his experience as a magistrate at the Sungai Siput Court in Perak, he highlighted the significance of using clear language when delivering court rulings to ensure that accused persons fully understand the decision and sentence imposed.