Intern, Research on Enhancing SYC’s Inheritance Certificate Process

This project aims to evaluate the current inheritance certificate issuance process under Section 115 of AMLA by analysing five years of application data (2020-2025) to determine whether enhancements to fact-finding processes or amendments to Syariah Court (SYC) powers are necessary. The research seeks to address systemic issues that may be undermining the effectiveness and credibility of the inheritance certificate system, particularly focusing on cases requiring multiple revisions, e.g. changing of madzhab, undistributed estate for several generations, etc., and their impact on public confidence in SYC determinations. The study will examine the practical limitations imposed by Section 115's restriction on the SYC's fact-finding powers, assess how these constraints affect the quality of inheritance determinations, and identify whether current jurisdictional boundaries are adequate for effective certificate issuance. Through statistical analysis of application patterns, revision frequencies, and processing outcomes, the project aims to pinpoint specific areas where the current framework falls short of meeting stakeholder needs. The research will include a focused comparative analysis of inheritance certificate practices in Brunei, Indonesia and Malaysia as key reference jurisdictions to provide insights into alternative approaches. The project will culminate in evidence-based recommendations for either enhancing existing fact-finding processes within current legal constraints or proposing specific AMLA amendments to expand SYC powers where necessary to improve system effectiveness and maintain institutional credibility.

The intern is expected to analyse SYC's inheritance certificate system, focusing on data analysis and targeted comparative research. At the conclusion of the project, the intern is required to present the research findings and recommendations. The intern is required to extract and analyse five years of inheritance certificate application data to identify trends, particularly focusing on multiple revision cases and their causes. The research will assess current SYC powers under Section 115 AMLA and map existing fact-finding workflows between civil courts and the SYC to identify bottlenecks contributing to inadequate determinations. The intern is expected to conduct focused comparative analysis of inheritance certificate practices in Brunei, Indonesia, and Malaysia, examining their court powers and fact-finding authorities as primary reference points. The research will evaluate whether frequent revisions indicate systemic problems undermining public confidence and assess how current jurisdictional limitations affect certificate quality. The findings will contribute to evidence-based recommendations for enhancing fact-finding processes and identifying priority areas where AMLA amendments may be necessary to expand SYC powers. In addition, should time permit, the intern will assist in compiling content on therapeutic justice principles within the Syariah Court context. The intern will work closely under the supervision of a President of the SYC.

• Keen interest in public policy work and willing to learn. • Strong grasp in Muslim law practice • Resourcefulness as interns will rely on public materials as resource • Good organization skills, and literate in the use of Microsoft office tools • Excellent reading skills in English and Arabic • Excellent analytical and writing skills Application Details: We are seeking interns who can commit on a full-time basis for a max of 3 months any period from May 2026 to Nov 2026 To apply: • Please submit your CV/ resume • Indicate your internship availability period