Understanding legal and law enforcement terms in any language is essential for a myriad of reasons – whether you are traveling, working, or simply interested in the legal system of different cultures. In this article, we’ll look at some of the key legal and law enforcement terms in the Malay language and their definitions to help you gain a better grasp of the vocabulary.

Undang-undang
“Undang-undang” means “law.” It refers to the system of rules that a particular country or community recognizes as regulating the actions of its members and may enforce by the imposition of penalties.
Semua warganegara hendaklah mematuhi undang-undang negara.

Peguam
“Peguam” means “lawyer.” A peguam is an individual who practices law, as an advocate, barrister, attorney, counselor or solicitor or chartered legal executive.
Peguam itu memberikan nasihat yang baik mengenai masalah hukum saya.

Polis
“Polis” translates to “police,” referring to the civil force of a national or local government, responsible for the prevention and detection of crime and the maintenance of public order.
Polis sedang menyiasat kes pencurian yang berlaku semalam.

Perbicaraan
A “perbicaraan” is a “trial.” This is the formal examination of evidence before a judge, and typically before a jury, in order to decide guilt in a case of criminal or civil proceedings.
Perbicaraan untuk kes itu akan bermula pada bulan hadapan.

Hakim
The term “hakim” means “judge.” A hakim is a public official appointed to decide cases in a court of law.
Hakim telah membuat keputusan yang adil dalam kes itu.

Gugatan
“Gugatan” means “lawsuit.” It’s a claim or dispute brought to a court of law for adjudication.
Gugatan itu telah diajukan ke mahkamah oleh syarikat tersebut.

Tangkapan
“Tangkapan” means “arrest.” It refers to the act of detaining someone and taking them into custody, typically because they have been suspected of committing a crime.
Tangkapan telah dilakukan oleh polis pada awal pagi tadi.

Denda
A “denda” is a “fine.” This is a penalty of money that one is ordered by a court to pay for committing a minor crime.
Dia terpaksa membayar denda kerana memandu melebihi had laju yang ditetapkan.

Pendakwaan
“Pendakwaan” refers to “prosecution.” It is the institution and conducting of legal proceedings against someone in respect of a criminal charge.
Pendakwaan terhadap bekas menteri itu telah mendapat perhatian media.

Pembelaan
“Pembelaan” translates to “defense.” In legal terms, it pertains to the case presented by or on behalf of the party being accused or sued in a lawsuit.
Pembelaan telah menyampaikan hujah mereka dengan efektif.

Penjara
“Penjara” means “prison.” It is a building in which people are legally held as a punishment for crimes they have committed or while awaiting trial.
Dia telah dihantar ke penjara setelah didapati bersalah atas tuduhan penipuan.

Jaminan
“Jaminan” stands for “bail.” It refers to the temporary release of an accused person awaiting trial, sometimes on condition that a sum of money be lodged to guarantee their appearance in court.
Tertuduh telah dilepaskan dengan jaminan RM10,000.

These terms are just a starting point for understanding the legal and law enforcement vocabulary in Malay. Knowing these words can facilitate better communication and understanding when dealing with legal matters in a Malay-speaking context. Whether you are learning the language or find yourself needing legal assistance in Malaysia or other Malay-speaking regions, having this vocabulary at hand can be incredibly beneficial.