Human Resources
Domestic inquiry
Definition
A domestic inquiry is an internal hearing an employer holds to decide whether an employee committed alleged misconduct, before deciding any disciplinary punishment such as dismissal.
Why hold a domestic inquiry?
The Employment Act 1955 expects due inquiry before an employer punishes or dismisses an employee for misconduct, and a fair process helps if the case later reaches the Industrial Court. Read the Act on Laws of Malaysia online.
What makes a domestic inquiry fair?
- A clear charge given to the employee in writing.
- Enough time to prepare a defence.
- An independent panel with no part in the incident.
- A chance to call witnesses and answer the evidence.
- Written notes of the hearing and the findings.
The full steps are in how to conduct a domestic inquiry.
Where can you go next?
Courses, checks and reading on the same work.- CourseEmployee Disciplinary Management & Domestic Inquiry
- CourseStaff Discipline & Grievance Handling for Supervisors
- CourseIndustrial Court Case Preparation & Litigation Management
- CertificationCertified HR Separation Manager (CHSP)
- Free online assessmentAre your discipline and termination steps fair and documented? Free separation check
- GuideHow to conduct a domestic inquiry
- Glossary termEmployment Act 1955
- Glossary termRetrenchment
Which sources does this page use?
Updated 20 October 2026. General information from the Certifyd team, not legal, tax or safety advice for your workplace.