KOTA KINABALU – In 2021, the Malaysian Judiciary introduced Electronic Plead Guilty, also
known as e-PG, which commenced at the Magistrate Court of Shah Alam on 5 February 2021.
According to a press statement released by the High Court of Sabah and Sarawak, This innovative system allows individuals charged under 42 minor traffic offenses to electronically enter a guilty plea, thereby enhancing efficiency and accessibility while reducing the need for in-person court appearances.
The High Court of Sabah and Sarawak have embraced this innovation and introduced their own e-PG module through e-Kehakiman Sabah and Sarawak (e-KSS).
The first use of e-PG in the High Court Sabah and Sarawak was on 17 July 2024 at the Magistrate Court of Kota Kinabalu.
The e-PG platform offers a secure, user-friendly interface that guides summoned persons
through the process of pleading guilty online. This system is intended for cases involving 42
minor traffic offenses where a guilty plea is appropriate and permitted by the law.
By allowing the summoned persons to resolve their cases remotely, the platform aims to save time, reduce court congestion, and provide a more convenient option for individuals who might otherwise face challenges attending court in person.
Key Features and Benefits
1. Accessibility: The platform can be accessed from any device with internet connectivity,
providing flexibility for the summoned persons to plead guilty from the comfort of their
own homes.
2. Efficiency: By reducing the number of in-person appearances required, e-PG helps to
alleviate the backlog of cases in the court system, allowing judges and court staff to
allocate resources more effectively.
3. Transparency: The platform provides clear, step-by-step instructions to ensure the
summoned persons understand their rights and the implications of their guilty plea.
Additionally, the system includes safeguards to verify the summoned persons’ identity
and ensure voluntary participation.
4. Cost Savings: By minimizing the need for physical court visits, the platform reduces
transportation and other associated costs for the summoned persons.
The launch of e-PG marks a significant milestone in the evolution of the judicial process. By
leveraging technology to provide more convenient and efficient options for traffic offenders,
the High Court of Sabah and Sarawak are taking a proactive step towards a more accessible and streamlined justice system.-pr/BNN
