Traditional Legal System of Sabah; The

This study of the traditional legal system of Sabah deals with Native Law in Sabah, practice and procedure in the Native Court, and a historical account of the posts of those involved in the practical administration of Native Law. Attention is drawn to the need to review the possible weakening of the influence of Native Law because of changing attitudes arising from recent economic, social and political. developments. Native Law is based on customary behavior and is readily comprehensible to the indigenous people. The Native Court is conciliatory in its approach and ‘may advise and assist the parties to settle their dispute amicably’. The Native Courts Enactment 1992 has enabled the traditional legal system to be viable and beneficial in modern times, but its future role in society may be in jeopardy if the impartial status of Ketua Kampung, Native Chiefs and District Chiefs is not clearly defined.