On 4th August 2026, the Supreme Court successfully organized an Open Day for Year 11, 12 and 13 students from Sekolah Menengah Sayyidina Ali (SMSA), Pusat Tingkatan Enam Tutong (PTET), Pusat Tingkatan Enam Sengkurong (PTES), and Pusat Tingkatan Enam Belait (PTEB) as part of its ongoing public outreach and legal education initiatives.
The initiative stems from the vision outlined by The Honourable Chief Justice Dato Seri Paduka Steven Chong during the Opening of the Legal Year 2026, where he announced the introduction “Open Day in Court” In his address, the Honourable Chief Justice emphasised the Judiciary’s responsibility to educate the public about the work of judges and judicial officers and highlighted the importance of engaging young people through initiatives that provide meaningful exposure to the justice system.
The programme was designed to provide students with a greater understanding of the Judiciary, the administration of justice, and the role of the courts in upholding the rule of law. Through a combination of presentations and interactive activities students were introduced to the court system, the various roles performed by judicial officers as well career pathways within the legal profession.
The Open Day commenced with an opening address delivered by the Acting Chief Registrar Hjh Hazarena binti POKSJ DP Haji Hurairah, who welcomed the students and teachers, and highlighted the importance of fostering legal awareness among young people. In the address, students were encouraged to develop a deeper appreciation of the justice system and the fundamental principles of fairness, integrity, and the rule of law that underpin the work of the courts.
A highlight of the programme was an interactive mock trial, where students assumed the roles of magistrates, prosecutors and defence counsel. Working in teams, students examined a simplified criminal case, prepared their respective positions, and presented the matter before the court. The activity provided students with a practical appreciation of courtroom procedures, legal advocacy, and judicial decision-making while encouraging critical thinking, teamwork, and effective communication. Students also had the opportunity to observe a fresh criminal case in the Intermediate Court and the delivery of a criminal appeal ruling, providing them with practical exposure to courtroom proceedings and a deeper understanding of the administration of justice.
The programme concluded with an informal engagement session attended by judicial commissioners, judges and judicial officers. This provided students with the opportunity to interact directly with members of the Judiciary, ask questions about the legal profession and judicial careers, and gain first-hand perspectives on the responsibilities and experiences of those serving within the justice system.
The Judiciary remains committed to promoting public understanding of the courts and strengthening legal literacy through meaningful educational outreach initiatives. The Supreme Court Open Day reflects the Judiciary’s continued efforts to engage with the community, inspire future generations to consider careers in law and public service, and foster greater confidence in the administration of justice.