Evidence of Child Witness Act tabled for first reading
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Nazri Abdul Aziz today tabled for first reading a bill to enact the Evidence of Child Witness Act 2007.
This is a new Act to make provisions relating to the giving of evidence by child witnesses in court.
A “Child witness” means a person under the age of 16 years who is called or proposed to be called to give evidence in any proceedings but does not include an accused or a child charged with any offence.
Part II of the Act deals with the manner of giving evidence by child witnesses.
Clause 14 seeks to restrict the media reporting and publication of the particulars of a child witness in a proceeding which may lead to the identification of the child witness. It also provides for the penalty for non-compliance with this provision.
The debate is expected next week. Anyone with views is welcome to e-mail at mptanjong1@yahoo.com
1. A child is defined in this act as those below the age of 16. The child is defined as under 18 for other Acts (Child Act 2001, Age of Majority Act etc).
2. A witness who is above 16 years old, but who is medically certified as below the mental age of 16 years old should also be protected by this Act.
Comment by Wong Hon Wai — Tuesday, 19-06-2007 @ 21: 22.15