CHILD’S CUSTODY AFTER DIVORCE: HARMONISATION BETWEEN ISLAMIC AND CIVIL LAWS IN MALAYSIA

Malaysia practises diverse child’s custody after divorce law. Islamic law binds Muslims and non-Muslims are bound by Civil law. Both laws recognise the best interest of the child as the main consideration in custody. The Shari’ah and Civil courts will use the best interest’s factors to determine custody. However, the laws in Malaysia have remained stagnant for the past 30 years. It is therefore important for the laws to undergo legal reforms. Legal reforms should consider harmonisation because the laws share many similar values. They can complement each other to strengthen custody. This article examines the laws and legal reforms through harmonisation in the best interest and the factors. The results show the possibility of the reforms through harmonisation. The laws should recognise joint and sole custody. The best interest should prioritise the child without neglecting the role of the parents, the family members, and the related parties. The factors should be flexible. The courts should also consider other relevant factors to determine custody.