Legal Aid Center Chairman in Penang Raises Concerns Over Low Income Threshold

Overview

Arif Shaharuddin, the Chairman of the Legal Aid Center of the Penang Bar Council, has expressed concerns regarding the current income threshold of RM3,000 per month.

Statement by Arif Shaharuddin

Arif Shaharuddin stated that the current income threshold of RM3,000 per month is excessively low. He emphasized the challenges faced by individuals earning below this threshold in accessing legal aid services.

Importance of Income Threshold

The income threshold plays a crucial role in determining eligibility for legal aid services. Individuals with incomes below this threshold are typically entitled to receive legal assistance at little to no cost.

Impact on Access to Justice

A low income threshold can pose significant barriers to accessing justice for individuals who cannot afford legal representation. This can result in a lack of legal recourse for vulnerable populations.

Call for Review

Arif Shaharuddin has called for a review of the income threshold to ensure that it accurately reflects the cost of living and economic conditions in Penang. He suggested that an increase in the threshold would help improve access to justice for low-income individuals.

Legal Aid Services in Penang

The Legal Aid Center of the Penang Bar Council provides crucial legal assistance to individuals who cannot afford private legal representation. The center plays a vital role in promoting access to justice for all members of society.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the concerns raised by Arif Shaharuddin highlight the importance of ensuring that income thresholds for legal aid services are set at an appropriate level to facilitate access to justice for all individuals, regardless of their financial situation. A review of the current threshold may be necessary to address the challenges faced by low-income individuals in seeking legal assistance.

Source

This article is written in response to original article.