Civil Divorce in Terengganu: Court and Travel

Where are Terengganu divorces heard?

Terengganu runs along the east coast, from the state capital down to Dungun and Kemaman. Civil divorce here comes under the Law Reform (Marriage and Divorce) Act 1976, and cases are usually heard at the High Court of Malaya at Kuala Terengganu.

Good preparation matters, especially if you have to travel to the capital.

What is the simplest way to divorce?

If you both agree to end the marriage, a joint petition is the most straightforward option. You settle the children, money and property before filing, which means less conflict.

The joint petition is heard in Kuala Terengganu. You both attend to confirm your agreement, and the court then grants a decree nisi (a provisional order). Under Section 61 of the Act, it becomes final after three months unless the court sets a shorter period.

What if we cannot agree?

If your spouse does not agree, you can file a contested divorce. You must prove the marriage has broken down, for example through adultery, unreasonable behaviour or a period of living apart. Each fact needs its own evidence.

Contested cases follow set stages. Case management hearings set the timetable, and mediation may be tried before a trial. Your lawyer prepares you for each stage.

How is child custody decided?

Child custody is decided under Section 88 of the LRA 1976, with the child’s welfare first. The court looks at each parent’s ability to care for the child, the child’s routine, and the child’s wishes if they are old enough.

Parents who agree before the hearing usually end up with arrangements that work better for the family. The courts encourage this wherever possible.

Getting to the court

The High Court is in Kuala Terengganu, the state capital. Kemaman, in the south, is about two hours away by road. Dungun is in between, about an hour from the capital.

Most of the work, such as meetings, reviewing documents and negotiating, happens outside the courtroom. This keeps trips to a minimum for families in the south.

Looking to engage a divorce lawyer? If you live in Kemaman or Dungun and are unsure how many trips your case would need, request independent lawyer contact via WhatsApp: Request Lawyer Contact. For general information, use our guides and tools.