PUTRAJAYA, Aug 3 (Bernama) -- The National Unity Ministry aims to produce 1,280 certified community mediators by 2030 to strengthen community conflict management and foster a culture of peaceful dispute resolution nationwide.
Its Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang said the target is among the ministry’s key commitments to enhancing community mediation services in line with the aspirations of the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP), which emphasises strengthening social unity through effective, inclusive and sustainable conflict management.
He said mediation services serve as an important mechanism in helping communities resolve disputes through negotiation and mutual understanding without having to resort to court litigation.
“This approach is not only faster and more cost-effective, but also helps preserve good relations between the parties involved while strengthening community harmony,” he said in a statement today.
To support the target, Aaron said the ministry will establish 12 new community mediation centres by 2027 to expand public access to the services, while also strengthening strategic collaboration with local authorities.
He said the locations identified for the establishment of the new community mediation centres are Pusat Rukun Tetangga (PRT) Taman Khidmat in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah; Perumahan Awam (PA) Seri Kota in Kuala Lumpur; Pontian, Johor; PRT Pekan Bukit Payong in Terengganu; Shah Alam, Selangor; Pusat Aktiviti Perpaduan (PAP) Kulim in Kedah; PAP Permatang Badak in Pahang; Machang, Kelantan; Labuan; PAP Miri in Sarawak; Kamunting, Perak; and Jasin, Melaka.
Aaron said the mediation services are provided on a pro bono basis and are open to the public free of charge, enabling disputing parties to reach voluntary, professional and amicable settlements without resorting to court proceedings.
He said the expansion of the community mediation centre network, together with the increase in the number of certified mediators, is expected to strengthen the country’s capacity to manage community conflicts more effectively, while contributing to the development of a harmonious, united and prosperous society in line with the aspirations of Malaysia MADANI.
-- BERNAMA