JPN Conciliation Tracker: Marriage Tribunal Steps

What is JPN conciliation, and do you need it?

Before one spouse can file a single petition, Section 106 of the Law Reform (Marriage and Divorce) Act 1976 requires the marriage problems to go to a conciliation body first. For many couples this is the marriage tribunal (Tribunal Perkahwinan) at the National Registration Department (JPN). Its job is to see whether you can reconcile.

It is not needed for a joint petition, where you both agree to divorce. Some single petitions are also exempt, for example when:

• you were deserted and do not know where your spouse is
• your spouse lives abroad and is unlikely to return within six months
• your spouse was called to attend and deliberately did not
• your spouse is in prison for five years or more

If you are not sure, check with JPN or a lawyer.

What happens in a session

You and your spouse attend one or more sessions where the tribunal discusses your situation and whether you can reconcile. It is not a court hearing, and it does not decide who is right. Lawyers cannot act for you there.

If you reconcile, JPN issues a Sijil Perdamaian. If not, JPN issues a certificate of non-reconciliation, often called KC.28 or KC.29, which you attach to your divorce petition.

Why tracking helps

There is no official portal showing where your case is, and times vary by state and office. It is easy to forget what you submitted, when your session was, or which document you are waiting for.

Use the checklist above to record each step, and set a reminder for your session date.

Looking to engage a divorce lawyer? If you are unsure whether you need conciliation, or what to do after your certificate, request independent lawyer contact via WhatsApp: Request Lawyer Contact. For general information, use our guides and tools.