Love, Law, and Litigation: Legal Perspectives on Breach of Promise to Marry in Malaysia

Authors

Daleleer Kaur Randawar

Faculty of Law, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia (Malaysia)

Muhammad Izwan Ikhsan

Faculty of Law, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia (Malaysia)

Article Information

DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS.2025.923MIC3ST25004

Subject Category: Education

Volume/Issue: 9/23 | Page No: 33-39

Publication Timeline

Submitted: 2025-08-12

Accepted: 2025-08-20

Published: 2025-10-24

Abstract

Claims for breach of promise to marry remain actionable in Malaysia, unlike in many other jurisdictions where such claims have been abolished. One reason for the removal of these claims is the perception that they often stem from motives of financial gain. However, in several Asian countries, these claims continue to be recognised. By employing a doctrinal methodology that examines statutory provisions, case reports, and scholarly writings, this article aims to explore the foundations of breach of promise claims in Malaysia and the process of awarding compensatory damages from social, cultural, and religious perspectives. It also investigates the extent to which compensatory damages are granted in breach of promise cases, particularly in relation to the empowerment of women's rights in Malaysia

Keywords

Breach of Promise; Compensatory Damages; Women's Rights; Malaysian

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