Can I give evidence in Chinese or Malay, and how do I ask for an interpreter?

Many witnesses in Johor Bahru, Kuala Lumpur and elsewhere think most clearly in Mandarin, Hokkien, Cantonese, Tamil or Malay. Giving evidence in a language you are not comfortable with can lead to misunderstandings that look like inconsistency. This guide explains your language options as a witness and how to ask for an interpreter. For a wider overview of court languages, see our guide on court interpreters and language.

What language are Malaysian courts conducted in?

Under section 8 of the National Language Acts 1963/67, court proceedings are generally conducted in the national language, Bahasa Malaysia, and the court may allow English where it considers it in the interests of justice. In practice, many civil hearings in the superior courts proceed partly in English.

That rule is about the language of the proceedings. It does not mean you must speak Malay or English yourself. A witness may give evidence in their own language, with a court interpreter interpreting questions and answers.

Can I give evidence in Mandarin or a Chinese dialect?

Generally yes. Courts commonly have interpreters for Mandarin and Tamil, and in some courts for Chinese dialects or other languages. Availability for less common dialects varies, so ask early. Be specific: "Mandarin" and "Hokkien" are different requests.

How do I ask for an interpreter?

1. Tell the lawyer or prosecutor who called you, as soon as you know you will be a witness, which language and dialect you need.
2. They will usually inform the court so an interpreter can be arranged for the hearing date.
3. If you are a party, your lawyer can raise it at case management.
4. On the day, if no interpreter is present, tell the lawyer before you go into the witness box. Do not struggle through in a language you do not fully understand.

Have a question about your own situation? Ask on WhatsApp

What is it like giving evidence through an interpreter?

• The lawyer asks a question; the interpreter interprets it to you; you answer in your language; the interpreter interprets your answer to the court.
• Speak in short sentences and pause, so the interpreter can keep up.
• Look at and answer the lawyer or judge, not the interpreter, as if speaking directly.
• If an interpretation seems wrong, say so politely: "I think my answer was not interpreted correctly."
• Do not answer before the interpretation is finished, even if you understand some English. Answering early can cause confusion about which question you answered.

Your evidence must be truthful in any language. Using an interpreter changes nothing about your duty to tell the truth.

What about my witness statement and documents?

• If your witness statement is in English or Malay but you read Chinese better, tell the lawyer. You must understand every word before you confirm it on oath. A translation may be needed.
• Documents in other languages (for example Chinese WhatsApp messages or receipts) usually need a proper translation for use in court, as the rules require. Your lawyer handles this.

Common mistakes

• Choosing English or Malay out of embarrassment, then misunderstanding questions.
• Asking for an interpreter on the day, when none has been arranged.
• Not specifying the dialect.
• Signing a statement in a language you cannot read fully.
• Answering before the interpretation ends.

Example

Madam Lim, a witness in a property dispute, spoke conversational English but thought in Cantonese. Her lawyer asked the court for a Cantonese interpreter well before trial. In cross-examination, a question about "settlement" could have meant payment or agreement; through the interpreter, she asked which meaning was intended and answered accurately.

When to speak to a lawyer

If you are a party and some of your witnesses need interpreters, or your documents are in Chinese or Tamil, raise it with your lawyer early so it is dealt with at case management. Our team works in English, Bahasa Malaysia and Mandarin. Contact us; every case depends on its facts.

Frequently asked questions

Do I have to pay for a court interpreter?

Court interpreters in the ordinary course are provided by the court. Ask the lawyer if there are any costs for special arrangements.

Can a family member interpret for me?

Generally not as the official interpreter. The court uses its own interpreters to ensure independence.

Can I switch languages midway?

Tell the court if you need to; but it is best to choose the language you are most comfortable with from the start.

What if I understand English but want to answer in Mandarin?

You may ask to give evidence in Mandarin through an interpreter. Be consistent, and listen to the interpretation before answering.

Is sign language interpretation available?

It can be requested. Tell the party who called you early.

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. National Language Acts 1963/67 (Act 32), including section 8, AGC Laws of Malaysia
2. Criminal Procedure Code (Act 593), including sections 112, 173 and 257, AGC Laws of Malaysia
3. Rules of Court 2012 (P.U.(A) 205/2012), text published by the Malaysian Bar, including Orders 12, 13, 18, 19 and 93
4. Office of the Chief Registrar, Federal Court of Malaysia (Judiciary portal)

Fact-checked on 17 Oct 2026