Professional Development Course for Land Acquisition Assessors (Pengapit Hakim): Understanding Judicial Valuation Competency under the Land Acquisition Act 1960

Building upon the foundation established in the earlier Land Acquisition CPD programme on objection and court reference proceedings, this advanced session focuses on the specialised role of the Assessor (Pengapit Hakim) in assisting the Court to determine fair compensation under the Land Acquisition Act 1960. The programme examines the judicial valuation competencies required of assessors, combining legal understanding, valuation expertise, evidential analysis, and structured reasoning in compensation proceedings. Participants will gain a deeper appreciation of the assessor's role within the judicial process, including the interpretation of compensation principles under the First Schedule, critical evaluation of valuation evidence, analysis of acquisition documents, and assessment of expert testimony. The course also explores practical challenges commonly encountered during hearings, interactions with legal practitioners and expert witnesses, ethical considerations, and the application of professional judgement in complex acquisition cases. Through practical discussion and case-based analysis, participants will develop the competencies necessary to perform effectively, independently, and objectively when appointed to assist the Court in land acquisition matters.