What should I wear, what time should I arrive, and what should I bring on the day of court?

The day you go to court is usually the day people feel most anxious. Much of that anxiety comes from not knowing practical things: what to wear, where to go, what to bring. This checklist covers those basics for witnesses and parties in Malaysian courts, such as the courts in Johor Bahru and Kuala Lumpur. It is about the logistics. Your only job in the witness box is to tell the truth.

What should I wear?

There is no special costume for witnesses, but courts expect respectful dress. A safe guide is what you would wear to a formal office meeting:

• collared shirt or blouse, long trousers or a modest skirt or dress;
• covered shoulders; avoid very short, sheer or revealing clothing;
• closed shoes or neat sandals; avoid slippers;
• no caps or sunglasses inside the courtroom (religious head coverings are of course fine);
• avoid T-shirts with slogans or images.

Individual courts may display their own notices on dress. If in doubt, dress more formally, and check the notices at the court building.

What time should I arrive?

The time on your subpoena or summons is usually when the court begins its list, not the exact time you will be called. Plan to arrive 30 to 60 minutes early so you can:

• find parking or get through traffic (court areas in Johor Bahru and Kuala Lumpur can be busy in the morning);
• pass the security check at the entrance;
• find the right courtroom from the notice board or information counter;
• meet the lawyer or prosecutor who called you.

If you are running late, call the lawyer or prosecutor at once.

What should I bring?

1. MyKad, passport or other identification.
2. The subpoena or summons you received, showing the case number and court.
3. A copy of your witness statement if you have one (civil cases), for re-reading while waiting. Do not take notes into the witness box without permission.
4. Original documents the lawyer asked you to bring.
5. Water, a small snack and any medication you take.
6. Something quiet to read while waiting.
7. Contact numbers of the lawyer or prosecutor.

Leave behind anything that may not pass security, such as sharp objects.

Have a question about your own situation? Ask on WhatsApp

What happens when I get there?

Report to the lawyer or prosecutor who called you. You will usually wait outside the courtroom until called, because witnesses generally should not hear other witnesses' evidence. When your name is called, you go to the witness box, take the oath or affirmation, and the questioning begins: examination-in-chief, then cross-examination, then re-examination, under the Evidence Act 1950.

Phone and behaviour in court

• Switch your phone to silent or off before entering the courtroom.
• Do not take photos or recordings in court.
• Stand when the judge enters or leaves, if others do.
• Address the judge as advised by the lawyer (for example "Yang Arif").
• Do not speak to other witnesses about the case while waiting.

What if the case does not proceed?

Courts often have several cases listed. Your case may start late, run into the afternoon, or be adjourned to another date. Keep the whole day free. If adjourned, confirm the new date with the lawyer before leaving, and ask about any expenses.

Common mistakes

• Arriving exactly on time and then queuing at security.
• Forgetting identification or the subpoena.
• Dressing too casually, such as shorts and slippers.
• Chatting about the case in the corridor, where other witnesses may hear.
• Leaving early without telling the lawyer, assuming you are not needed.

When to speak to a lawyer

If you cannot attend on the date given, are unwell, or have a clash with work or travel, tell the party who called you immediately; do not simply stay away. If you are a party and unsure what to bring, ask your lawyer well before the date. Contact us; every case depends on its facts.

Frequently asked questions

Can I bring a family member for support?

Usually yes, as a member of the public in the gallery, unless the hearing is closed. They must not prompt you.

Can I bring my child?

It is better to arrange childcare. Waiting can be long, and children may not be allowed in some hearings.

Will I be paid for attending?

Witness expenses depend on the type of case and who called you. Ask the lawyer or prosecutor.

What if I feel unwell on the day?

Tell the lawyer or court staff. The court can adjust for genuine health needs.

How long will I be in the witness box?

Anything from a few minutes to more than a day, depending on the case.

Sources & fact check

Legal points in this article were checked against the primary sources below. The law can change; this is general information, not legal advice.

1. Office of the Chief Registrar, Federal Court of Malaysia (Judiciary portal)
2. Johor State Courts official portal (Office of the Chief Registrar, Federal Court of Malaysia)
3. Kuala Lumpur Courts official portal (Kuala Lumpur Courts Complex, Jalan Duta)
4. Evidence Act 1950 (Act 56), Part III Chapter X: examination of witnesses (ss.137-166), AGC Laws of Malaysia

Fact-checked on 17 Oct 2026