PETALING JAYA: The Legal Affairs Division in the Prime Minister's Department will review and study existing laws, including 147 outdated laws, says Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob (pic).

       The Prime Minister said immediate changes of the laws are needed to stay relevant in line with the current situation and technological advancements.

       The improvements, he added, will also ensure the wellbeing of Keluarga Malaysia.

       "Digital technology is rapidly evolving. In this context, existing laws are irrelevant or somewhat backward.

       "The Common Gaming Houses Act 1853, for example, only involved the enforcement of gambling activities in physical premises, and not online," he said during University Malaya's Faculty of Law Golden Jubilee Celebration.

       Ismail Sabri said the government had taken several proactive measures in strengthening the laws in Malaysia.

       This, he said, included reforms on the mandatory death penalty.

       "Many are confused about the recently announced abolition of the mandatory death penalty, as if the death penalty has been abolished.

       "The government does not abolish the death penalty, but relies on the power and discretion of the judge to determine whether the offender is sentenced to death, or given other alternative sentences.

       "This objective should be the basis and policy for the government and policymakers in matters relating to the punishment of a crime to seek the best, commensurate and effective punishment," he said.

       Ismail Sabri also said that preparation of the Anti-Hopping Bill by the Select Committee is in the final stages and it is expected to be tabled in Parliament in July.

       Ismail Sabri said party hopping has hampered the process of constitutional democracy in Malaysia especially post the 14th General Election.

       "Therefore, the Bill is essential to guarantee political stability and integrity after GE15," he said.

       Ismail Sabri said efforts to strengthen political integrity include other aspects including the regulation of political contribution funds.

       He assured that the independence of the judiciary and legislature will continue to be preserved.