MMU, BHEUU Join Forces To Expand Legal Aid, Literacy Through MULA Clinic
MELAKA, May 8 (Bernama) -- The signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Multimedia University (MMU) and the Legal Affairs Division (BHEUU) of the Prime Minister's Department today is expected to strengthen efforts to expand access to legal aid and improve legal literacy among the public.
Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Law and Institutional Reform) Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said said the collaboration aims to reinforce legal and institutional reforms through the sharing of expertise, research, training and best practices, while also enhancing the competency of legal practitioners and relevant stakeholders.
She said the launch of the MMU Legal Aid Clinic (MULA Clinic) is highly significant in ensuring access to justice for all segments of society.
“Access to justice is the cornerstone of any society founded on the rule of law. However, there are still various barriers, whether in terms of cost, awareness or accessibility,” she said.
Azalina was speaking at the MoU signing ceremony between MMU and BHEUU, as well as the launch of the MULA Clinic at Persada Permata Dunia MMU Melaka Campus today.
Also present were MMU president and chief executive officer Prof. Datuk Dr Mazliham Mohd Su'ud and BHEUU director-general Datuk Zamri Misman.
Azalina added that, in line with the MADANI Government’s commitment, various initiatives have been strengthened to bridge gaps in access to justice, including the Justice on Wheels programme run by the Legal Aid Department (JBG), which delivers legal services directly to communities, particularly in rural and remote areas.
She also highlighted the Legal Aid and Public Defender Act 2026 as a major reform initiative aimed at coordinating legal aid mechanisms, widening access to assistance and introducing a Public Defender system for those in need.
“This is not merely a policy measure, but a reflection of the clear principle that justice must not only exist, but must also be accessible and felt by all levels of society,” she said.
Meanwhile, Azalina stressed the importance of preparing society for the rapid advancement of Artificial Intelligence (AI), which is increasingly influencing everyday life, including the legal and employment sectors.
“Through this collaboration, we hope to see new and innovative approaches to increasing legal awareness, including through digital platforms, creative content and technology-based outreach initiatives.
“If we study law today, we cannot avoid AI and must accept that AI may take over some tasks previously performed by humans, given the rapid pace of technological development and its implications for security, communication and employment.
“Therefore, legal literacy is extremely important in building a just and progressive nation. When citizens understand their rights and responsibilities, they are better able to participate meaningfully in society,” she said.
-- BERNAMA
