Giving evidence at the Kuala Lumpur Court Complex (Jalan Duta): a practical guide for witnesses

The Kuala Lumpur Courts Complex on Jalan Tuanku Abdul Halim, still widely known as Jalan Duta, is one of the largest court buildings in Malaysia. For a first-time witness it can feel overwhelming. This guide covers the practical side of a witness's day. For a party's first court date, see our article on what to expect at a first court date in Kuala Lumpur.

Which court will I be in?

According to the official Kuala Lumpur Courts portal, the complex houses the High Court, Sessions Courts and Magistrates' Courts. Civil and criminal divisions sit in different parts of the complex, and some specialised courts or tribunals in Kuala Lumpur sit in other buildings.

Your subpoena (civil) or summons to witness (criminal) should state the court, the case number and the date. Ask the lawyer or prosecuting officer who called you for the courtroom number and where to meet, ideally a day or two before.

How do I get there and get in?

• Drop-off. Many witnesses use e-hailing or taxis to avoid parking. Ask the driver for the main entrance of the Kuala Lumpur Courts Complex and allow extra time for morning traffic.
• Parking. Arrangements can change and spaces fill early; check before you go.
• Security. Expect a security screening at the entrance, similar to an airport check. Avoid bringing sharp objects.
• Directions. Signboards and information counters can direct you to the right block and floor. Keep your case number ready.

Have a question about your own situation? Ask on WhatsApp

What happens while I wait?

Witnesses usually wait outside the courtroom until called, so they do not hear the evidence of other witnesses. Several matters may be listed before a judge on the same morning, and case management or mentions are often taken first.

• Keep your phone on silent and do not record anything in court.
• Do not discuss your evidence with other witnesses in the corridor.
• If the court breaks for lunch, check with the lawyer what time to return. You remain a witness during the break.
• If your evidence is not finished by the end of the day, the court may continue on another day. You must return when directed.

What happens when I am called?

You go into the witness box, take the oath (according to your religion) or affirm, and give evidence in the order set by the Evidence Act 1950: examination-in-chief, cross-examination and re-examination. In civil cases, your evidence-in-chief may be a witness statement you confirm on oath.

Speak clearly so the recording equipment and the judge can hear you. Many courtrooms record proceedings; the judge may also take notes, so pause if the judge is writing. Address the judge as "Yang Arif".

What should I prepare?

• Your IC or passport, and the subpoena or summons.
• Your witness statement or other documents the lawyer has asked you to re-read.
• Spectacles, medication and water.
• Time: clear your whole day, and tell your employer you may need the next day too.

Re-reading your own statement helps you refresh your genuine memory. Nobody should tell you what to say.

Common mistakes

• Not confirming the courtroom number, then wandering a large complex looking for it.
• Underestimating traffic and security queues.
• Leaving at lunch without checking what time the court resumes.
• Chatting about the case in lifts, corridors or the canteen, where others may hear.
• Bringing a large group who then talk to you about your evidence.

When to speak to a lawyer

If you are worried your evidence could expose you to liability, or you cannot attend on the date, speak to your own lawyer. Chris & Partners, led by Dr Chee Hui Bing, has offices in the Klang Valley, including Mont Kiara, and handles litigation in the Kuala Lumpur courts. Contact us; every case depends on its facts.

Frequently asked questions

Are all Kuala Lumpur courts at Jalan Duta?

Most High, Sessions and Magistrates' Courts in Kuala Lumpur sit at the complex, but some courts and tribunals sit elsewhere. Check your document.

Can I give evidence by video link instead?

Only if the court allows it. See our article on giving evidence by video link.

Is there food at the complex?

Food options are usually available nearby, but check with the lawyer how long the break is before you go.

Can my family watch?

Most trials are in open court, so family members can usually sit in the public gallery. Some cases, such as those involving children or sexual offences, may be heard in private.

What if I am late?

Call the lawyer who called you immediately. Do not simply give up and go home.

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. Kuala Lumpur Courts official portal (Kuala Lumpur Courts Complex, Jalan Duta)
2. Evidence Act 1950 (Act 56), Part III Chapter X: examination of witnesses (ss.137-166), AGC Laws of Malaysia
3. Courts of Judicature Act 1964 (Act 91), AGC Laws of Malaysia
4. Subordinate Courts Act 1948 (Act 92), AGC Laws of Malaysia
5. Rules of Court 2012 (P.U.(A) 205/2012), text published by the Malaysian Bar, including Orders 12, 13, 18, 19 and 93
6. Criminal Procedure Code (Act 593), Attorney General's Chambers Laws of Malaysia

Fact-checked on 17 Oct 2026