What to expect at the Industrial Court
Your claim may reach a hearing and you want to know how it works.
What happens at an Industrial Court hearing?
A hearing is formal but specialised, and it deals only with employment and industrial relations disputes. Both sides present their case, including evidence and witnesses, before the court decides.
It is less formal than a criminal trial but still follows set procedures. The court sits mainly in Kuala Lumpur, with branches in Penang, Ipoh, Johor Bahru, Kota Kinabalu and Kuching.1
What outcome can the court deliver?
The court issues a written award, not a verdict on the day of the hearing. The award can order reinstatement, or compensation in its place, depending on the facts.
Where back wages are part of the award, they are capped at 24 months for a confirmed employee and 12 months for a probationer.2 Knowing this range lets you approach the hearing with realistic expectations.
How do you prepare for your hearing?
Review your documents and written account so the details are fresh and consistent. Think through clear, factual answers to the questions you expect.
Read about what back wages and compensation can look like so the numbers are no surprise. Ask in advance how long the hearing might run, so you can plan around work or childcare.
What helps on the day?
Arrive early, dress neatly and bring your documents in an organised folder. A family member or friend can wait outside the hearing room where allowed.
If you want a lawyer to represent you, an employment lawyer can walk you through what your hearing is likely to involve. They can act for you if the case is worth pursuing.
If your claim may reach the Industrial Court, an independent employment lawyer can review your case now and represent you there if it is worth pursuing.
For people seeking legal representation. For general information, please use our guides and tools.
First contact: general facts only, such as date, location, employment status and a short summary. Keep documents private until an identified independent lawyer contacts you and specifically requests them.
Common questions
Is the Industrial Court the same as a criminal court?
No. It is a specialised tribunal for employment and industrial relations disputes, and its process and atmosphere differ from a criminal court. It decides by written award.
Do I need to speak in the hearing myself?
You may be asked to give evidence directly as part of the proceedings. Preparing for the questions you expect helps a great deal.
How is the decision delivered?
The court issues a written award explaining its findings and any remedy, such as reinstatement or compensation. It is not usually given aloud on the day of the hearing.
Which court branch would handle my case?
JPPM confirms which branch hears your case. The court has its main registry in Kuala Lumpur and branches in other states.
Sources
- The Industrial Court sits mainly in Kuala Lumpur, with branches in Penang, Ipoh, Johor Bahru, Kota Kinabalu and Kuching. Mahkamah Perusahaan Malaysia, contact
- Back wages awarded for unfair dismissal are capped at 24 months for a confirmed employee and 12 months for a probationer. DNH
Keep reading
If your claim may reach the Industrial Court, an independent employment lawyer can review your case now and represent you there if it is worth pursuing.
For people seeking legal representation. For general information, please use our guides and tools.
First contact: general facts only, such as date, location, employment status and a short summary. Keep documents private until an identified independent lawyer contacts you and specifically requests them.