By Norrasyidah Arshad
SHAH ALAM, Aug 30 — Selangor has become the first Malaysian state to provide free legal advice services for low-income groups, with a RM1 million allocation.
State executive councillor for social welfare V Ganabatirau said the Selangor Legal Aid Fund (DBGS) is a new initiative by the state government to ensure the less fortunate are not oppressed and marginalised.
He said the fund is managed by the Selangor Bar Committee, with services provided to individuals facing cases involving family (civil) issues, employment, and those of public interest.
"We have handed over RM300,000 to the committee so they can carry out their responsibilities in helping society’s needy.
"This service is open to Malaysian citizens, Selangor voters, or those who have resided in the state for at least 10 years and earn under RM3,000 monthly," Ganabatirau said after officiating the programme at the Concorde Hotel earlier today.
The event was also attended by Malaysian Bar Council president Karen Cheah Yee Lynn, Selangor Bar Committee chairman V Kokila Vaani, and state assemblymen.
Ganabatirau said those seeking free legal advice services can contact the community service centre of their respective state constituency to do so.
"Fill out the form. We will check all the details and eligible applications will be submitted to the committee," he added.
On July 24, Menteri Besar Dato' Seri Amirudin Shari announced the establishment of DBGS to defend the rights and welfare of individuals with financial problems so they can obtain legal advice.
