Bicam said that with structured case management, accredited mediators, and close coordination with the Sabah courts, the initiative supported faster resolutions while maintaining professionalism, neutrality, and confidentiality.

“Under this framework, mediation costs are fully borne by Bicam, ensuring that individuals and small- and medium-sized enterprises can resolve disputes without financial barriers,” it said in a Facebook post today.

The centre also said that beyond reducing court backlogs, the initiative reflected a commitment to building a Sabah-centric ADR ecosystem that delivers practical outcomes and real impact on the ground.

In a separate statement, Bicam chairman David Wong said that upon court referral, the centre would engage the parties or their solicitors, facilitate the execution of the agreement to mediate, and proceed with the appointment of mediators.

He said all cases would be assigned to qualified pro bono mediators, ensuring that parties receive professional, neutral, and experienced support without cost barriers.

“Each case undergoes proper conflict checks, formal appointment procedures, and active case management. Weekly status updates are provided to the courts to ensure transparency, accountability, and alignment with judicial timelines,” he said.

Wong, a former chief judge of Sabah and Sarawak, said mediation sessions would be conducted at Bicam’s facilities in Kota Kinabalu or via secure online platforms to allow accessibility and maintain confidentiality.

“Where settlement is achieved, the outcome is formalised through a settlement agreement and may be recorded as a consent judgment. Where mediation is unsuccessful, the matter is returned to court without prejudice to the parties’ rights,” he said.